Michigan State University vs University of California-Santa Barbara

Side-by-side comparison based on real salary, cost, and graduation data from the U.S. Department of Education.

Metric
Michigan State University
Top program: Computer and Information Sciences, General
97/100
University of California-Santa Barbara
Top program: Computer Science
97/100
Starting Salary
$76,292
$86,276
Listed Price
$32,198
$41,573
What You Pay
$19,680
$16,109
What You'd Really Pay
$87,192
$69,535
Typical Debt
$23,250
$13,993
Graduation Rate
80.7%
83%
Pays for Itself In
1.9 yrs
1.2 yrs
Salary Boost
+154%
+188%
Ahead After 10 Years
$675,728
$793,225
Michigan State University vs University of California-Santa Barbara Comparison
MetricMichigan State UniversityUniversity of California-Santa Barbara
Starting Salary$76,292$86,276
Listed Price$32,198$41,573
What You Pay$19,680$16,109
What You'd Really Pay$87,192$69,535
Typical Debt$23,250$13,993
Graduation Rate80.7%83%
Pays for Itself In1.9 yrs1.2 yrs
Salary Boost+154%+188%
Ahead After 10 Years$675,728$793,225

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Michigan State University or University of California-Santa Barbara?

Based on Value Score, Michigan State University scores higher at 97/100 for its top program. Compare all metrics including salary, cost, and graduation rate to decide which is the better fit for your major.

What is the average salary for graduates of Michigan State University?

The top-earning program at Michigan State University (Computer and Information Sciences, General) has a median salary of $76,292/yr after graduation. Salaries vary significantly by major.

What is the average salary for graduates of University of California-Santa Barbara?

The top-earning program at University of California-Santa Barbara (Computer Science) has a median salary of $86,276/yr after graduation. Salaries vary significantly by major.

How much does Michigan State University cost vs University of California-Santa Barbara?

Michigan State University has a net cost of $19,680/yr vs $16,109/yr at University of California-Santa Barbara. True total cost (including loan interest) is $87,192 vs $69,535.

Data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Comparison shows each school's top-earning bachelor's degree program. Learn about our methodology.