Pennsylvania Western University vs Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
California, PA — Troy, NY
| Metric | Pennsylvania Western University California, PA | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Troy, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | California, PA | Troy, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 7,451 | 5,714 |
| Acceptance Rate | 94.3% | 63.5% |
| SAT Average | 1,063 | 1,456 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,436 | $64,081 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $16,054 | $64,081 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,256 | $36,228 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,725 | $23,750 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 51.4% | 83.4% |
| Retention Rate | 71.7% | 90.7% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $38,474 | $83,054 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $47,295 | $102,051 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 432900.0% | 189900.0% |
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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Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Pennsylvania Western University and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute 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. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (Troy, NY) has an acceptance rate of 63.5%, in-state tuition of $64,081, and median 10-year earnings of $102,051.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pennsylvania Western University or Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute?▼
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,051 vs $47,295. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania Western University or Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Pennsylvania Western University is the more affordable option at $18,256 per year versus $36,228.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.4% 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