Tennessee State University vs University of Southern California

Nashville, TN — Los Angeles, CA

Metric
Tennessee State University
Nashville, TN
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
Location Nashville, TN Los Angeles, CA
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 4,848 20,443
Acceptance Rate 70.1% 9.8%
SAT Average 1,000 1,495
In-State Tuition $8,616 $72,097
Out-of-State Tuition $22,416 $72,097
Avg Net Price $15,796 $32,740
Median Debt at Graduation $27,000 $18,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 33.5% 91.9%
Retention Rate 33.5% 95.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $34,160 $74,461
Median Earnings (10 yr) $42,730 $92,498
Loan Repayment Rate 498100.0% 435800.0%

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

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Tennessee State University
Nashville, TN
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University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Tennessee State University and University of Southern California compare?
Tennessee State University (Nashville, TN) has an acceptance rate of 70.1%, in-state tuition of $8,616, and median 10-year earnings of $42,730. University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA) has an acceptance rate of 9.8%, in-state tuition of $72,097, and median 10-year earnings of $92,498.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Tennessee State University or University of Southern California?
University of Southern California graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $92,498 vs $42,730. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Tennessee State University or University of Southern California?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Tennessee State University is the more affordable option at $15,796 per year versus $32,740.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Southern California has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 91.9% vs 33.5%.

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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