University of Missouri-Columbia vs California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Columbia, MO — San Luis Obispo, CA

Metric
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
Location Columbia, MO San Luis Obispo, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 23,929 21,996
Acceptance Rate 78.5% 31.3%
SAT Average 1,247
In-State Tuition $14,837 $13,596
Out-of-State Tuition $36,056 $34,665
Avg Net Price $20,268 $16,665
Median Debt at Graduation $20,500 $18,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 75.5% 85.7%
Retention Rate 92.7% 95.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $52,756 $72,358
Median Earnings (10 yr) $63,403 $90,768
Loan Repayment Rate 891300.0% 437700.0%

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

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University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
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California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do University of Missouri-Columbia and California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo compare?
University of Missouri-Columbia (Columbia, MO) has an acceptance rate of 78.5%, in-state tuition of $14,837, and median 10-year earnings of $63,403. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo (San Luis Obispo, CA) has an acceptance rate of 31.3%, in-state tuition of $13,596, and median 10-year earnings of $90,768.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, University of Missouri-Columbia or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $90,768 vs $63,403. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, University of Missouri-Columbia or California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is the more affordable option at $16,665 per year versus $20,268.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.7% vs 75.5%.

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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