Southern Methodist University vs California State University-Northridge
Dallas, TX — Northridge, CA
| Metric | Southern Methodist University Dallas, TX | California State University-Northridge Northridge, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dallas, TX | Northridge, CA |
| Type | Private Nonprofit | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 7,277 | 32,691 |
| Acceptance Rate | 63.3% | 93.5% |
| SAT Average | 1,428 | — |
| In-State Tuition | $67,040 | $7,458 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $67,040 | $20,058 |
| Avg Net Price | $40,892 | $7,021 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,500 | $13,872 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 83.8% | 56.5% |
| Retention Rate | 90.5% | 73.4% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $65,556 | $44,372 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $78,354 | $59,115 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 131300.0% | 999500.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
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California State University-Northridge
Northridge, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Southern Methodist University and California State University-Northridge compare?▼
Southern Methodist University (Dallas, TX) has an acceptance rate of 63.3%, in-state tuition of $67,040, and median 10-year earnings of $78,354. 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, Southern Methodist University or California State University-Northridge?▼
Southern Methodist University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $78,354 vs $59,115. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Southern Methodist 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 $40,892.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Southern Methodist University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 83.8% 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