Pennsylvania Western University vs Columbia University in the City of New York

California, PA — New York, NY

Metric
Pennsylvania Western University
California, PA
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Location California, PA New York, NY
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 7,451 8,973
Acceptance Rate 94.3% 4.0%
SAT Average 1,063 1,553
In-State Tuition $11,436 $71,845
Out-of-State Tuition $16,054 $71,845
Avg Net Price $18,256 $21,590
Median Debt at Graduation $23,725 $21,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 51.4% 95.5%
Retention Rate 71.7% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $38,474 $88,535
Median Earnings (10 yr) $47,295 $102,491
Loan Repayment Rate 432900.0% 185800.0%

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

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Pennsylvania Western University
California, PA
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Pennsylvania Western University and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?
Pennsylvania Western University (California, PA) has an acceptance rate of 94.3%, in-state tuition of $11,436, and median 10-year earnings of $47,295. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pennsylvania Western University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $47,295. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania Western University or Columbia University in the City of New York?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Pennsylvania Western University is the more affordable option at $18,256 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 51.4%.

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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