South University-Columbia vs Northwestern University

Columbia, SC — Evanston, IL

Metric
South University-Columbia
Columbia, SC
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Columbia, SC Evanston, IL
Type Private For-Profit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 450 9,201
Acceptance Rate 7.7%
SAT Average 1,533
In-State Tuition $18,145 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $18,145 $68,322
Avg Net Price $27,693 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $26,123 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 12.5% 95.5%
Retention Rate 57.1% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $34,115 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $34,421 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 2653100.0% 204100.0%

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

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South University-Columbia
Columbia, SC
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Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do South University-Columbia and Northwestern University compare?
South University-Columbia (Columbia, SC) has no published acceptance rate, in-state tuition of $18,145, and median 10-year earnings of $34,421. Northwestern University (Evanston, IL) has an acceptance rate of 7.7%, in-state tuition of $68,322, and median 10-year earnings of $89,363.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, South University-Columbia or Northwestern University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $34,421. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, South University-Columbia or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), South University-Columbia is the more affordable option at $27,693 per year versus $29,167.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Northwestern University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 12.5%.

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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