Tarleton State University vs Southern Methodist University

Stephenville, TX — Dallas, TX

Metric
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX
Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
Location Stephenville, TX Dallas, TX
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 12,673 7,277
Acceptance Rate 89.5% 63.3%
SAT Average 1,075 1,428
In-State Tuition $8,302 $67,040
Out-of-State Tuition $18,142 $67,040
Avg Net Price $20,783 $40,892
Median Debt at Graduation $19,606 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 49.6% 83.8%
Retention Rate 69.8% 90.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $46,729 $65,556
Median Earnings (10 yr) $53,040 $78,354
Loan Repayment Rate 508400.0% 131300.0%

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

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Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX
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Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Tarleton State University and Southern Methodist University compare?
Tarleton State University (Stephenville, TX) has an acceptance rate of 89.5%, in-state tuition of $8,302, and median 10-year earnings of $53,040. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Tarleton State University or Southern Methodist University?
Southern Methodist University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $78,354 vs $53,040. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Tarleton State University or Southern Methodist University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Tarleton State University is the more affordable option at $20,783 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 49.6%.

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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