Pepperdine University vs San Diego State University
Malibu, CA — San Diego, CA
| Metric | Pepperdine University Malibu, CA | San Diego State University San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Malibu, CA | San Diego, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 3,553 | 35,377 |
| Acceptance Rate | 62.9% | 36.2% |
| SAT Average | 1,384 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $69,918 | $8,728 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $69,918 | $21,328 |
| Avg Net Price | $58,098 | $15,364 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,510 | $15,000 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 84.2% | 77.3% |
| Retention Rate | 87.6% | 90.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $64,934 | $52,620 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $82,939 | $64,909 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 123400.0% | 794300.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Pepperdine University
Malibu, CA
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San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Pepperdine University and San Diego State University compare?▼
Pepperdine University (Malibu, CA) has an acceptance rate of 62.9%, in-state tuition of $69,918, and median 10-year earnings of $82,939. San Diego State University (San Diego, CA) has an acceptance rate of 36.2%, in-state tuition of $8,728, and median 10-year earnings of $64,909.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pepperdine University or San Diego State University?▼
Pepperdine University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $82,939 vs $64,909. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pepperdine University or San Diego State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), San Diego State University is the more affordable option at $15,364 per year versus $58,098.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Pepperdine University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 84.2% vs 77.3%.
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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