Vanguard University of Southern California vs Carnegie Mellon University

Costa Mesa, CA — Pittsburgh, PA

Metric
Vanguard University of Southern California
Costa Mesa, CA
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
Location Costa Mesa, CA Pittsburgh, PA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 1,933 7,304
Acceptance Rate 62.4% 11.7%
SAT Average 1,546
In-State Tuition $41,700 $66,246
Out-of-State Tuition $41,700 $66,246
Avg Net Price $21,241 $31,944
Median Debt at Graduation $22,000 $21,750
4-Year Graduation Rate 56.3% 93.3%
Retention Rate 70.1% 98.0%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $43,464 $105,360
Median Earnings (10 yr) $59,541 $114,862
Loan Repayment Rate 114600.0% 138300.0%

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

Full Profile
Vanguard University of Southern California
Costa Mesa, CA
View full college profile →
Full Profile
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA
View full college profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Vanguard University of Southern California and Carnegie Mellon University compare?
Vanguard University of Southern California (Costa Mesa, CA) has an acceptance rate of 62.4%, in-state tuition of $41,700, and median 10-year earnings of $59,541. Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA) has an acceptance rate of 11.7%, in-state tuition of $66,246, and median 10-year earnings of $114,862.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Vanguard University of Southern California or Carnegie Mellon University?
Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $114,862 vs $59,541. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Vanguard University of Southern California or Carnegie Mellon University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Vanguard University of Southern California is the more affordable option at $21,241 per year versus $31,944.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Carnegie Mellon University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.3% vs 56.3%.

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