University of West Georgia vs Kennesaw State University
These two Georgia public universities offer different experiences despite similar tuition costs. UWG charges $5,971 in-state versus KSU's $5,786, with nearly identical out-of-state rates around $17,000.
Admission and Academics
UWG accepts 80% of applicants compared to KSU's more selective 68% rate. However, KSU demonstrates stronger academic outcomes with a 48% six-year graduation rate versus UWG's 43%. KSU also retains more students (79% vs 76%). UWG offers smaller classes with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, while KSU's larger scale results in 23:1 ratios.
Campus Experience
The universities differ dramatically in size and scope. UWG enrolls 7,485 students in Carrollton, creating a close-knit college town atmosphere. KSU serves 39,503 students near Atlanta, providing extensive resources and Division I athletics compared to UWG's Division II programs.
Financial Outcomes
KSU graduates earn significantly more, with median 10-year earnings of $57,552 versus UWG's $49,587. Both schools maintain similar debt levels around $24,000. KSU's average net price is slightly higher at $16,972 compared to UWG's $15,450.
Value Proposition
KSU offers better career prospects and urban opportunities, while UWG provides a more affordable, intimate educational experience with better faculty access.
Students seeking a large university experience with strong career outcomes and Atlanta proximity should consider KSU, while those preferring smaller classes, lower costs, and a traditional college town environment would find UWG more suitable.
These two Georgia public universities offer different experiences despite similar tuition costs. UWG charges $5,971 in-state versus KSU's $5,786, with nearly identical out-of-state rates around $17,000.
Admission and Academics
UWG accepts 80% of applicants compared to KSU's more selective 68% rate. However, KSU demonstrates stronger academic outcomes with a 48% six-year graduation rate versus UWG's 43%. KSU also retains more students (79% vs 76%). UWG offers smaller classes with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio, while KSU's larger scale results in 23:1 ratios.
Campus Experience
The universities differ dramatically in size and scope. UWG enrolls 7,485 students in Carrollton, creating a close-knit college town atmosphere. KSU serves 39,503 students near Atlanta, providing extensive resources and Division I athletics compared to UWG's Division II programs.
Financial Outcomes
KSU graduates earn significantly more, with median 10-year earnings of $57,552 versus UWG's $49,587. Both schools maintain similar debt levels around $24,000. KSU's average net price is slightly higher at $16,972 compared to UWG's $15,450.
Value Proposition
KSU offers better career prospects and urban opportunities, while UWG provides a more affordable, intimate educational experience with better faculty access.
Students seeking a large university experience with strong career outcomes and Atlanta proximity should consider KSU, while those preferring smaller classes, lower costs, and a traditional college town environment would find UWG more suitable.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| University of West Georgia | Kennesaw State University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 80.1% | 67.9% |
| SAT Average | 1,035 | 1,120 |
| Enrollment | 7,485 | 39,503 |
| In-State Tuition | $5,971 | $5,786 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $17,024 | $17,040 |
| Net Price | $15,450 | $16,972 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 42.7% | 48.1% |
| Retention Rate | 76.0% | 78.7% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $49,587 | $57,552 |
| Median Debt | $23,970 | $23,833 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| University of West Georgia | Kennesaw State University | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $66,870 | Computer Science. | $68,499 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $64,990 | Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | $67,846 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | $43,638 | Engineering Technology, General. | $66,287 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | $42,682 | Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $64,659 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | $38,924 | Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $63,622 |