William Paterson University of New Jersey vs Columbia University in the City of New York
Wayne, NJ — New York, NY
| Metric | William Paterson University of New Jersey Wayne, NJ | Columbia University in the City of New York New York, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Wayne, NJ | New York, NY |
| Type | Public | Private Nonprofit |
| Total Enrollment | 6,614 | 8,973 |
| Acceptance Rate | 90.1% | 4.0% |
| SAT Average | — | 1,553 |
| In-State Tuition | $15,704 | $71,845 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $25,344 | $71,845 |
| Avg Net Price | $18,745 | $21,590 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,334 | $21,500 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 45.6% | 95.5% |
| Retention Rate | 73.9% | 98.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $44,928 | $88,535 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $57,780 | $102,491 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 504800.0% | 185800.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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William Paterson University of New Jersey
Wayne, NJ
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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do William Paterson University of New Jersey and Columbia University in the City of New York compare?▼
William Paterson University of New Jersey (Wayne, NJ) has an acceptance rate of 90.1%, in-state tuition of $15,704, and median 10-year earnings of $57,780. Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, William Paterson University of New Jersey or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $102,491 vs $57,780. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, William Paterson University of New Jersey or Columbia University in the City of New York?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), William Paterson University of New Jersey is the more affordable option at $18,745 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 45.6%.
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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