San Diego State University vs Duke University

San Diego, CA — Durham, NC

Metric
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
Duke University
Durham, NC
Location San Diego, CA Durham, NC
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 35,377 6,442
Acceptance Rate 36.2% 5.7%
SAT Average 1,548
In-State Tuition $8,728 $68,758
Out-of-State Tuition $21,328 $68,758
Avg Net Price $15,364 $29,612
Median Debt at Graduation $15,000 $13,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 77.3% 96.3%
Retention Rate 90.6% 97.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $52,620 $85,792
Median Earnings (10 yr) $64,909 $97,800
Loan Repayment Rate 794300.0% 124100.0%

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

Full Profile
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Duke University
Durham, NC
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do San Diego State University and Duke University compare?
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. 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, San Diego State University or Duke University?
Duke University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $97,800 vs $64,909. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, San Diego State University or Duke 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 $29,612.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Duke University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 96.3% vs 77.3%.

More Comparisons

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