Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute vs Duke University

Troy, NY — Durham, NC

Metric
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, NY
Duke University
Durham, NC
Location Troy, NY Durham, NC
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 5,714 6,442
Acceptance Rate 63.5% 5.7%
SAT Average 1,456 1,548
In-State Tuition $64,081 $68,758
Out-of-State Tuition $64,081 $68,758
Avg Net Price $36,228 $29,612
Median Debt at Graduation $23,750 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 83.4% 96.3%
Retention Rate 90.7% 97.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $83,054 $85,792
Median Earnings (10 yr) $102,051 $97,800
Loan Repayment Rate 189900.0% 124100.0%

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

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Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, NY
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Duke University
Durham, NC
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Duke University compare?
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. Duke University (Durham, NC) has an acceptance rate of 5.7%, in-state tuition of $68,758, and median 10-year earnings of $97,800.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute or Duke University?
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,051 vs $97,800. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute or Duke University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Duke University is the more affordable option at $29,612 per year versus $36,228.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Duke University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.3% vs 83.4%.

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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