Samford University vs California State University-Northridge

Birmingham, AL — Northridge, CA

Metric
Samford University
Birmingham, AL
California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
Location Birmingham, AL Northridge, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Public
Total Enrollment 4,206 32,691
Acceptance Rate 82.4% 93.5%
SAT Average 1,201
In-State Tuition $40,150 $7,458
Out-of-State Tuition $40,150 $20,058
Avg Net Price $32,622 $7,021
Median Debt at Graduation $19,500 $13,872
4-Year Graduation Rate 78.4% 56.5%
Retention Rate 92.9% 73.4%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $49,466 $44,372
Median Earnings (10 yr) $58,469 $59,115
Loan Repayment Rate 86900.0% 999500.0%

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-Northridge
Northridge, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Samford University and California State University-Northridge 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-Northridge (Northridge, CA) has an acceptance rate of 93.5%, in-state tuition of $7,458, and median 10-year earnings of $59,115.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Samford University or California State University-Northridge?
California State University-Northridge graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $59,115 vs $58,469. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Samford University or California State University-Northridge?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Northridge is the more affordable option at $7,021 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 56.5%.

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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