Salem State University vs University of Southern California

Salem, MA — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Salem State University
Salem, MA
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Salem, MA Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 4,291 20,443
Acceptance Rate 95.9% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,495
In-State Tuition $12,338 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $19,531 $72,097
Avg Net Price $15,996 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $25,000 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 52.4% 91.9%
Retention Rate 75.3% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $48,209 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $56,662 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 326000.0% 435800.0%

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

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Salem State University
Salem, MA
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Salem State University and University of Southern California compare?
Salem State University (Salem, MA) has an acceptance rate of 95.9%, in-state tuition of $12,338, and median 10-year earnings of $56,662. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.8%, in-state tuition of $72,097, and median 10-year earnings of $92,498.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Salem State University or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $56,662. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Salem State University or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Salem State University is the more affordable option at $15,996 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Southern California has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 91.9% vs 52.4%.

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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