Clemson University vs K-State

Clemson University and Kansas State University, both esteemed institutions of higher learning, offer unique educational experiences to their students. Clemson, nestled in the picturesque foothills of South Carolina, boasts a vibrant campus and a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Kansas State, located in the heartland of Kansas, prides itself on its agricultural and engineering programs, along with a commitment to community engagement. While both universities share a dedication to academic excellence, they differ in acceptance rates, popular majors, student body demographics, and graduation rates. Explore the comprehensive comparison table below to discover which university aligns best with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Clemson University logo

Clemson University

Kansas State University logo

Kansas State University

Overview

Location Clemson, South Carolina Manhattan, Kansas
Campus setting Suburb: Large City: Small
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 94.0% 86.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 49.2% 95.6%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $70

Graduate: $80
Undergraduate: $40

Graduate: $65
SAT range 1220 - 1420 N/A
ACT range 27 - 32 N/A
Students submitting SAT score 40.0%
Students submitting ACT score 30.0%
Total number of applicants 47,007 9,822
Total number of admissions given out 23,138 9,391
Admitted students who chose to enroll 4,593 2,848
Yield rate 19.9% 30.3%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Not required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $34,164

Out of state: $57,156
In state: $23,866

Out of state: $39,937
Average net price $23,732 $19,874
Tuition
In state: $14,118

Out of state: $37,110
In state: $9,489

Out of state: $25,560
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $7,808

Meal plan: $4,426
Room/dormitory: $5,200

Meal plan: $4,900
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

81.0%
Average amount $9,699
88.0%
Average amount $6,774
Students receiving federal student loan 41.0%
Average amount $5,281
41.0%
Average amount $5,095
Students taking out private loans 9.0%
Average amount $21,664
5.0%
Average amount $14,579

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 21,653
Men 48.8% Women 51.2%
15,619
Men 50.3% Women 49.7%
Graduate students 5,688
Men 46.8% Women 53.2%
4,610
Men 38.7% Women 61.3%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Very Low
Out-of-state students 48.4% 21.8%
International students 4.8% 5.4%
Campus local/setting Suburb: Large City: Small
Dormitory capacity 7,800 5,696
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from South Carolina North Carolina Georgia New Jersey New York Kansas Missouri Texas Nebraska Colorado

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Agriculture
  • Education
  • Business
  • Agriculture
  • Engineering
  • Multidisciplinary Studies
Students to faculty ratio 16:1 19:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Higher Learning Commission

Outcome

Graduation rate 85.5% 68.4%
Dropout rate 2.3% 9.3%
Transferred out 11.3% 20.4%
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $78,776
  • Year 2: $90,762
  • Year 3: $98,373
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,762
  • Year 2: $69,079
  • Year 3: $82,921
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $74,898
  • Year 2: $74,262
  • Year 3: $80,104
Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $70,368
  • Year 2: $74,721
  • Year 3: $78,362
Industrial Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,182
  • Year 2: $68,592
  • Year 3: $76,236
Public Administration (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,048
  • Year 2: $64,493
  • Year 3: $76,070
Computer Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,632
  • Year 2: $67,995
  • Year 3: $74,017
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,398
  • Year 2: $66,673
  • Year 3: $73,905
Engineering-Related Fields (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,136
  • Year 2: $66,206
  • Year 3: $73,720
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,228
  • Year 2: $67,101
  • Year 3: $73,643
Food Science and Technology (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $75,367
  • Year 2: $76,460
  • Year 3: $83,284
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,831
  • Year 2: $71,734
  • Year 3: $83,247
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,832
  • Year 2: $68,219
  • Year 3: $82,805
Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $71,780
  • Year 2: $70,456
  • Year 3: $81,885
Veterinary Medicine (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $72,427
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $80,450
Construction Engineering Technologies (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,948
  • Year 2: $62,012
  • Year 3: $79,928
Architectural Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,390
  • Year 2: $65,557
  • Year 3: $75,955
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,670
  • Year 2: $65,131
  • Year 3: $73,437
Agricultural and Food Products Processing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,969
  • Year 2: $63,749
  • Year 3: $69,822
Civil Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,353
  • Year 2: $59,124
  • Year 3: $65,198

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary differences in location and campus environment between Clemson University and Kansas State University?

    Clemson University is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in South Carolina, offering a more scenic and outdoors-oriented environment. The campus is known for its beautiful scenery and proximity to lakes and hiking trails. Kansas State University, on the other hand, is situated in Manhattan, Kansas, a more traditional Midwestern college town. The campus has a strong sense of community and is known for its friendly atmosphere and focus on agriculture and related fields. The climate also differs, with Clemson experiencing a more humid subtropical climate and Kansas State having a more continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.

  • How do the academic programs at Clemson and Kansas State compare?

    Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Clemson University is particularly strong in engineering, architecture, and business, with a growing reputation in areas like biosystems engineering. Kansas State University excels in agriculture, veterinary medicine, engineering, and architecture, with a strong emphasis on practical application and research. While both offer comprehensive programs, prospective students should research specific departments and faculty to determine which university best aligns with their academic interests and career goals.

  • What is the cost of attendance at Clemson University versus Kansas State University?

    The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, varies between the two universities and depends on residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state). Generally, both universities offer competitive tuition rates. However, it's essential to check the most current tuition and fee schedules on each university's official website, as these figures are subject to change. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available at both institutions to help offset the cost of attendance.

  • How do the student life and extracurricular activities differ at Clemson and Kansas State?

    Both universities offer a vibrant student life with numerous extracurricular activities. Clemson University is known for its strong athletic programs, particularly football, and a passionate fanbase. The campus culture is heavily influenced by its athletic traditions. Kansas State University also has a strong athletic program, especially in football and basketball, and a dedicated student body. However, Kansas State's student life often emphasizes a close-knit community feel and a wide range of student organizations, including those related to agriculture and research. Both universities offer Greek life, clubs, and organizations catering to diverse interests.

  • What are the career prospects for graduates of Clemson University and Kansas State University?

    Graduates from both universities are well-regarded by employers. Clemson University graduates often find opportunities in engineering, business, architecture, and related fields, particularly in the Southeast region and nationally. Kansas State University graduates are highly sought after in agriculture, veterinary medicine, engineering, and architecture, with strong connections to industries in the Midwest and beyond. Career services departments at both universities provide resources for job searching, internships, and career development, helping students prepare for their future careers.

  • How do the research opportunities compare at Clemson and Kansas State?

    Both universities offer significant research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Clemson University has a strong research focus in engineering, science, and technology, with numerous research centers and institutes. Kansas State University is a major research institution, particularly in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and engineering, with extensive research facilities and funding. The specific research opportunities available will depend on the student's field of study, but both universities provide ample chances to participate in cutting-edge research projects.

  • What are the admission requirements for Clemson University and Kansas State University?

    Admission requirements for both universities typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), high school transcripts, and letters of recommendation. However, specific requirements, such as minimum GPA and test score thresholds, may vary. It's crucial to consult the official admissions websites of both Clemson University and Kansas State University for the most up-to-date and detailed information on application deadlines, required documents, and any specific program requirements.

  • How would you describe the overall campus culture and atmosphere at Clemson and Kansas State?

    Clemson University is known for its strong sense of school spirit, particularly related to athletics, and a beautiful campus environment. The atmosphere is often described as energetic and enthusiastic. Kansas State University fosters a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, with a strong sense of community and a focus on tradition. The campus culture is often characterized by its Midwestern values of hard work, collaboration, and a supportive environment.

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