Northern Kentucky University vs Santa Clara University

Highland Heights, KY — Santa Clara, CA

Metric
Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA
Location Highland Heights, KY Santa Clara, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 8,246 6,552
Acceptance Rate 67.7% 48.0%
SAT Average 1,087 1,426
In-State Tuition $11,088 $61,293
Out-of-State Tuition $21,912 $61,293
Avg Net Price $8,191 $50,062
Median Debt at Graduation $23,000 $19,162
4-Year Graduation Rate 50.2% 88.2%
Retention Rate 75.5% 93.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $42,105 $91,198
Median Earnings (10 yr) $50,220 $109,183
Loan Repayment Rate 614100.0% 120700.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Northern Kentucky University
Highland Heights, KY
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Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Northern Kentucky University and Santa Clara University compare?
Northern Kentucky University (Highland Heights, KY) has an acceptance rate of 67.7%, in-state tuition of $11,088, and median 10-year earnings of $50,220. Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA) has an acceptance rate of 48.0%, in-state tuition of $61,293, and median 10-year earnings of $109,183.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Northern Kentucky University or Santa Clara University?
Santa Clara University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $109,183 vs $50,220. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Northern Kentucky University or Santa Clara University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Northern Kentucky University is the more affordable option at $8,191 per year versus $50,062.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Santa Clara University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 88.2% vs 50.2%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025