Samford University vs California State University-Fresno
Birmingham, AL — Fresno, CA
| Metric | Samford University Birmingham, AL | California State University-Fresno Fresno, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Birmingham, AL | Fresno, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 4,206 | 21,605 |
| Acceptance Rate | 82.4% | 95.3% |
| SAT Average | 1,201 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $40,150 | $7,350 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $40,150 | $19,950 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,622 | $7,000 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 | $14,505 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 78.4% | 55.9% |
| Retention Rate | 92.9% | 81.6% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $49,466 | $44,012 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $58,469 | $61,244 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 86900.0% | 587900.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Samford University
Birmingham, AL
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California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Samford University and California State University-Fresno compare?▼
Samford University (Birmingham, AL) has an acceptance rate of 82.4%, in-state tuition of $40,150, and median 10-year earnings of $58,469. California State University-Fresno (Fresno, CA) has an acceptance rate of 95.3%, in-state tuition of $7,350, and median 10-year earnings of $61,244.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Samford University or California State University-Fresno?▼
California State University-Fresno graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $61,244 vs $58,469. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Samford University or California State University-Fresno?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Fresno is the more affordable option at $7,000 per year versus $32,622.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Samford University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 78.4% vs 55.9%.
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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