Choosing the right college is a significant decision that can impact a student’s future career and life experiences. In this guide, we’ll compare two prestigious universities, the University of Michigan (UMich) and Duke University, to help you make an informed decision. We will explore various aspects of each school, such as costs and tuition, admissions, academics, diversity, campus life, and more.
UMich Overview
The University of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is a public research university with a rich history and tradition. Founded in 1817, UMich offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, attracting students from all over the world. With an emphasis on research and innovation, UMich provides an exceptional learning environment for its students.
UMich Costs & Tuition
As a public university, UMich offers affordable tuition rates for in-state students. For the 2021-2022 academic year, in-state undergraduate tuition is approximately $15,948, while out-of-state students will pay around $52,266. Additional expenses, such as housing, dining, books, and personal expenses, can raise the total cost to around $30,298 for in-state students and $66,698 for out-of-state students.
UMich Admissions
Admission to UMich is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 23%. Successful applicants typically have strong academic records and a well-rounded extracurricular profile. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score range of 1330 to 1510 and an ACT score range of 31 to 34.
UMich Degrees Offered
UMich offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across a broad range of disciplines. The university is particularly well-known for its programs in engineering, business, social sciences, biology, and health professions.
UMich Academics
With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, UMich provides a high-quality education for its students. The university is home to over 19 schools and colleges, offering more than 275-degree programs. UMich’s faculty includes numerous distinguished scholars and researchers, ensuring that students receive a world-class education.
UMich Diversity
UMich is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university has numerous programs and initiatives designed to support and celebrate diversity, such as the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Center for Educational Outreach. In the fall of 2020, UMich’s undergraduate population was approximately 51% female and 49% male, with approximately 26% of students identifying as underrepresented minorities.
UMich Students
UMich has a vibrant student community, with over 48,000 students enrolled, including more than 31,000 undergraduate students. The university offers a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, providing numerous opportunities for students to engage with their peers and explore their interests outside the classroom.
UMich Campus
UMich’s campus is located in the lively city of Ann Arbor, offering students a vibrant college town experience. The campus spans over 3,200 acres and features numerous academic buildings, residence halls, athletic facilities, and green spaces. With its beautiful architecture and scenic spots, the campus provides an inspiring environment for students to learn and grow.
UMich Alumni
UMich has a strong alumni network, including notable figures such as former President Gerald Ford, Google co-founder Larry Page, and actor James Earl Jones. The university’s alumni have made significant contributions to various fields, such as business, politics, science, and the arts.
UMich Rankings
UMich consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States. In the 2021 U.S. News & World Report rankings, UMich was ranked #3 in Best Public Universities and #24 in National Universities.
UMich Outcomes
Graduates of UMich enjoy successful careers in various fields, with a strong post-graduation employment rate. According to the university’s data, approximately 92% of 2019 graduates were employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
Duke Overview
Duke University, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a private research university founded in 1838. Known for its rigorous academics and strong emphasis on research, Duke offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With a beautiful campus and a strong sense of community, Duke provides an exceptional educational experience for its students.
Duke Costs & Tuition
As a private university, Duke’s tuition rates are higher than those of public institutions. For the 2021-2022 academic year, undergraduate tuition and fees amount to approximately $60,244. Including expenses such as housing, dining, books, and personal expenses, the total cost of attendance can reach around $78,608.
Duke Admissions
Admission to Duke is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of approximately 7.7%. Successful applicants typically have strong academic records and a well-rounded extracurricular profile. The middle 50% of admitted students have an SAT score range of 1450 to 1570 and an ACT score range of 33 to 35.
Duke Degrees Offered
Duke offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly well-known for its programs in engineering, business, social sciences, biology, and health professions.
Duke Academics
Duke’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its top-tier faculty and rigorous curriculum. The university is home to ten schools and colleges, offering more than 80-degree programs. With a low student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, Duke students enjoy personalized attention and support from their instructors.
Duke Diversity
Duke is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university has numerous programs and initiatives designed to support and celebrate diversity, such as the Office of Institutional Equity and the Center for Multicultural Affairs. In the fall of 2020, Duke’s undergraduate population was approximately 49% female and 51% male, with approximately 42% of students identifying as underrepresented minorities.
Duke Students
Duke’s student community is lively and engaged, with over 15,000 students enrolled, including more than 6,000 undergraduate students. The university offers a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and activities, providing numerous opportunities for students to engage with their peers and explore their interests outside the classroom.
Duke Campus
Duke’s beautiful, sprawling campus spans more than 8,600 acres and is home to Gothic architecture, lush gardens, and state-of-the-art facilities. The campus has been recognized for its sustainability efforts, including its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices.
Duke Alumni
Duke boasts a strong alumni network, including notable figures such as Apple CEO Tim Cook and award-winning author Ann Patchett. The university’s alumni have made significant contributions to various fields, such as business, politics, science, and the arts.
Duke Rankings
Duke consistently ranks among the top universities in the United States. In the 2021 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Duke was ranked #9 in National Universities and #8 in Best Value Schools.
Duke Outcomes
Graduates of Duke enjoy successful careers in various fields, with a robust post-graduation employment rate. According to the university’s data, approximately 94% of 2019 graduates were employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
UMich vs Duke Cost Comparison
Though both universities offer premier educational experiences, their costs differ significantly. As a public university, UMich’s tuition is much lower for in-state students, while Duke, a private institution, has higher tuition rates for all students. Including all expenses, UMich’s total cost of attendance for in-state students is around $30,298 and $66,698 for out-of-state students. In comparison, Duke’s total cost of attendance amounts to approximately $78,608.
UMich vs Duke Admissions Difficulty
Both UMich and Duke have highly competitive admissions processes, with Duke having a lower acceptance rate of 7.7% compared to UMich’s 23%. Applicants to both schools typically have strong academic records and well-rounded extracurricular profiles. However, Duke’s admitted students have slightly higher average test scores, with a middle 50% SAT score range of 1450 to 1570 compared to UMich’s range of 1330 to 1510.
UMich vs Duke Academic Difficulty
Both universities are renowned for their rigorous academics and commitment to research, providing students with a high-quality education. The academic difficulty experienced by students at each school will largely depend on the individual’s chosen program and personal ability. However, both institutions offer extensive resources and support to help students succeed academically.
UMich vs Duke Outcome Comparison
Graduates of both UMich and Duke enjoy successful careers and strong post-graduation employment rates. UMich reports that approximately 92% of its 2019 graduates were employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation, while Duke’s rate was slightly higher at 94%. Given the prestige of both institutions and their commitment to providing a top-notch education, graduates of either university can expect strong career prospects and professional networks
