Utah State University vs University of Utah
Both universities offer accessible admission, though Utah State has a slightly higher acceptance rate (93.73% vs 89.13%). The University of Utah attracts more competitive applicants, reflected in its higher retention rate of 85.38% compared to Utah State's 74.15%.
Cost differences are modest but meaningful. In-state tuition is nearly identical ($9,228 vs $9,315), but out-of-state students pay $5,000 more at Utah ($29,837 vs $24,802). Average net prices are comparable at around $13,000 annually. However, Utah State graduates carry less debt ($14,340 vs $19,000).
The University of Utah demonstrates stronger academic outcomes with a 63.90% six-year graduation rate versus Utah State's 57.30%. Both maintain similar student-faculty ratios (19:1 and 18:1 respectively). Utah's location in Salt Lake City provides access to major employers and internship opportunities.
Career outcomes favor the University of Utah significantly. Graduates earn a median of $67,170 ten years post-graduation compared to $54,022 at Utah State. This $13,000 annual difference helps justify Utah's higher debt levels and provides better return on investment.
Both universities compete in NCAA Division I athletics. Utah State's Logan campus offers a traditional college town atmosphere, while Utah's Salt Lake City location provides urban amenities and cultural opportunities.
Campus experiences differ notably. Utah State creates a close-knit community feel in Logan, while Utah offers metropolitan advantages and research opportunities in Salt Lake City.
Students seeking affordability and a tight-knit campus community should consider Utah State, while those prioritizing career outcomes and urban experiences will find better value at the University of Utah.
Both universities offer accessible admission, though Utah State has a slightly higher acceptance rate (93.73% vs 89.13%). The University of Utah attracts more competitive applicants, reflected in its higher retention rate of 85.38% compared to Utah State's 74.15%.
Cost differences are modest but meaningful. In-state tuition is nearly identical ($9,228 vs $9,315), but out-of-state students pay $5,000 more at Utah ($29,837 vs $24,802). Average net prices are comparable at around $13,000 annually. However, Utah State graduates carry less debt ($14,340 vs $19,000).
The University of Utah demonstrates stronger academic outcomes with a 63.90% six-year graduation rate versus Utah State's 57.30%. Both maintain similar student-faculty ratios (19:1 and 18:1 respectively). Utah's location in Salt Lake City provides access to major employers and internship opportunities.
Career outcomes favor the University of Utah significantly. Graduates earn a median of $67,170 ten years post-graduation compared to $54,022 at Utah State. This $13,000 annual difference helps justify Utah's higher debt levels and provides better return on investment.
Both universities compete in NCAA Division I athletics. Utah State's Logan campus offers a traditional college town atmosphere, while Utah's Salt Lake City location provides urban amenities and cultural opportunities.
Campus experiences differ notably. Utah State creates a close-knit community feel in Logan, while Utah offers metropolitan advantages and research opportunities in Salt Lake City.
Students seeking affordability and a tight-knit campus community should consider Utah State, while those prioritizing career outcomes and urban experiences will find better value at the University of Utah.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Utah State University | University of Utah | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 93.7% | 89.1% |
| SAT Average | 1,175 | 1,290 |
| Enrollment | 20,342 | 26,041 |
| In-State Tuition | $9,228 | $9,315 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $24,802 | $29,837 |
| Net Price | $12,869 | $13,172 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 57.3% | 63.9% |
| Retention Rate | 74.2% | 85.4% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $54,022 | $67,170 |
| Median Debt | $14,340 | $19,000 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| Utah State University | University of Utah | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Computer Engineering. | $71,015 | Computer Science. | $74,307 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $69,338 | Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $66,821 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $63,501 | Chemical Engineering. | $65,894 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | $61,728 | Finance and Financial Management Services. | $64,493 |
| Information Science/Studies. | $60,298 | Information Science/Studies. | $62,409 |