George Mason University vs Liberty University
Both universities offer accessible admission, with Liberty accepting 99.3% of applicants compared to George Mason's 90% acceptance rate. However, they differ significantly in cost and outcomes.
Cost and Value: George Mason provides better financial value for Virginia residents at $13,815 in-state tuition versus Liberty's flat $21,222 rate. George Mason's average net price of $18,287 is substantially lower than Liberty's $29,552, while graduates earn a median of $76,343 after ten years compared to Liberty's $44,813.
Academic Environment: George Mason maintains a slightly better student-faculty ratio at 16:1 versus Liberty's 18:1. George Mason demonstrates stronger retention (87.4% vs 78.8%) and graduation rates (69.3% vs 63.5%), suggesting better student support systems.
Campus Experience: Liberty's enrollment of 50,059 students creates a much larger campus environment than George Mason's 27,083. Both compete in NCAA Division I athletics. Liberty emphasizes Christian values and required campus activities, while George Mason offers a more secular, research-focused environment near Washington, D.C.
Financial Outcomes: George Mason graduates carry less debt ($19,500 vs $24,500) while achieving significantly higher earning potential, creating a more favorable return on investment.
Student Fit: George Mason suits students seeking strong career outcomes, proximity to D.C. internships, and diverse academic opportunities at a lower cost. Liberty appeals to students prioritizing Christian education, a large campus community, and don't mind higher costs for faith-integrated learning.
Both universities offer accessible admission, with Liberty accepting 99.3% of applicants compared to George Mason's 90% acceptance rate. However, they differ significantly in cost and outcomes.
Cost and Value: George Mason provides better financial value for Virginia residents at $13,815 in-state tuition versus Liberty's flat $21,222 rate. George Mason's average net price of $18,287 is substantially lower than Liberty's $29,552, while graduates earn a median of $76,343 after ten years compared to Liberty's $44,813.
Academic Environment: George Mason maintains a slightly better student-faculty ratio at 16:1 versus Liberty's 18:1. George Mason demonstrates stronger retention (87.4% vs 78.8%) and graduation rates (69.3% vs 63.5%), suggesting better student support systems.
Campus Experience: Liberty's enrollment of 50,059 students creates a much larger campus environment than George Mason's 27,083. Both compete in NCAA Division I athletics. Liberty emphasizes Christian values and required campus activities, while George Mason offers a more secular, research-focused environment near Washington, D.C.
Financial Outcomes: George Mason graduates carry less debt ($19,500 vs $24,500) while achieving significantly higher earning potential, creating a more favorable return on investment.
Student Fit: George Mason suits students seeking strong career outcomes, proximity to D.C. internships, and diverse academic opportunities at a lower cost. Liberty appeals to students prioritizing Christian education, a large campus community, and don't mind higher costs for faith-integrated learning.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| George Mason University | Liberty University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 90.0% | 99.3% |
| SAT Average | 1,245 | |
| Enrollment | 27,083 | 50,059 |
| In-State Tuition | $13,815 | $21,222 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $39,397 | $21,222 |
| Net Price | $18,287 | $29,552 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 69.3% | 63.5% |
| Retention Rate | 87.4% | 78.8% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $76,343 | $44,813 |
| Median Debt | $19,500 | $24,500 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| George Mason University | Liberty University | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Computer Science. | $78,343 | Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $72,022 |
| Systems Engineering. | $74,576 | Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $68,219 |
| Biomedical/Medical Engineering. | $69,338 | Computer Engineering. | $63,600 |
| Computer Engineering. | $69,338 | Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $62,936 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $68,104 | Business/Commerce, General. | $57,705 |