University of Massachusetts-Lowell vs Northwestern University

Lowell, MA — Evanston, IL

Metric
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, MA
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
Location Lowell, MA Evanston, IL
Type Public Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 11,434 9,201
Acceptance Rate 83.0% 7.7%
SAT Average 1,285 1,533
In-State Tuition $16,966 $68,322
Out-of-State Tuition $36,264 $68,322
Avg Net Price $17,163 $29,167
Median Debt at Graduation $23,704 $15,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 67.4% 95.5%
Retention Rate 84.0% 98.1%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $61,467 $76,844
Median Earnings (10 yr) $64,874 $89,363
Loan Repayment Rate 526000.0% 204100.0%

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

Full Profile
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, MA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Massachusetts-Lowell and Northwestern University compare?
University of Massachusetts-Lowell (Lowell, MA) has an acceptance rate of 83.0%, in-state tuition of $16,966, and median 10-year earnings of $64,874. 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, University of Massachusetts-Lowell or Northwestern University?
Northwestern University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $89,363 vs $64,874. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Massachusetts-Lowell or Northwestern University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Massachusetts-Lowell is the more affordable option at $17,163 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 67.4%.

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