Clemson University vs LSU-A&M

Clemson University and Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, often referred to as LSU, are two prominent universities with distinct characteristics. Clemson, located in South Carolina, boasts a lower acceptance rate of 48% compared to LSU's 73%. Both universities offer a diverse range of undergraduate programs, with Clemson excelling in engineering and LSU excelling in business. Clemson's student body is predominantly white, while LSU's is more diverse, reflecting the state's population. In terms of graduation rates, LSU has a slight edge over Clemson, with a 78% graduation rate compared to Clemson's 76%. To help you make an informed decision about your higher education journey, we have compiled a comprehensive comparison table that delves into these aspects and more. Explore the table to discover which university aligns best with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Clemson University logo

Clemson University

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College logo

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

Overview

Location Clemson, South Carolina Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Campus setting Suburb: Large City: Midsize
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% 83.0%
Common app member Yes Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 49.2% 70.9%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $70

Graduate: $80
Undergraduate: $50

Graduate: $50
SAT range 1220 - 1420 1130 - 1320
ACT range 27 - 32 23 - 29
Students submitting SAT score 40.0% 12.0%
Students submitting ACT score 30.0% 88.0%
Total number of applicants 47,007 36,561
Total number of admissions given out 23,138 25,907
Admitted students who chose to enroll 4,593 7,045
Yield rate 19.9% 27.2%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $34,164

Out of state: $57,156
In state: $35,810

Out of state: $52,487
Average net price $23,732 $21,010
Tuition
In state: $14,118

Out of state: $37,110
$8,038
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $7,808

Meal plan: $4,426
Room/dormitory: $8,720

Meal plan: $4,434
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

81.0%
Average amount $9,699
93.0%
Average amount $13,235
Students receiving federal student loan 41.0%
Average amount $5,281
29.0%
Average amount $5,433
Students taking out private loans 9.0%
Average amount $21,664
4.0%
Average amount $19,954

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 21,653
Men 48.8% Women 51.2%
29,273
Men 45.3% Women 54.7%
Graduate students 5,688
Men 46.8% Women 53.2%
6,639
Men 39.7% Women 60.3%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 48.4% 32.6%
International students 4.8% 4.2%
Campus local/setting Suburb: Large City: Midsize
Dormitory capacity 7,800 8,657
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 Louisiana Texas Georgia Florida California

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Agriculture
  • Business
  • Engineering
  • Education
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences
  • Public Administration and Social Service
Students to faculty ratio 16:1 22:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 85.5% 69.0%
Dropout rate 2.3% 29.0%
Transferred out 11.3% N/A
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
Veterinary Medicine (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $76,490
  • Year 2: N/A
  • Year 3: $88,967
Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $80,305
  • Year 2: $76,460
  • Year 3: $87,944
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $70,811
  • Year 2: $71,402
  • Year 3: $83,027
Petroleum Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $75,560
  • Year 2: $60,099
  • Year 3: $80,274
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $74,032
  • Year 2: $68,965
  • Year 3: $79,563
Construction Management (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $63,541
  • Year 2: $67,101
  • Year 3: $77,603
International Business (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $39,643
  • Year 2: $43,575
  • Year 3: $69,597
Civil Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $59,301
  • Year 2: $61,330
  • Year 3: $68,763
Law (First Professional Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,429
  • Year 2: $52,107
  • Year 3: $67,944
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,915
  • Year 2: $55,964
  • Year 3: $65,757

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the main differences between Clemson University and LSU?

    Clemson University, located in South Carolina, is known for its strong engineering, agriculture, and business programs, as well as its close-knit campus community. LSU, situated in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a comprehensive research university with strengths in engineering, science, law, and mass communication. LSU also has a larger student body and a more diverse range of academic programs compared to Clemson.

  • How do Clemson and LSU compare in terms of academic reputation?

    Both Clemson and LSU are respected public universities. Clemson is often recognized for its strong undergraduate programs and career placement, particularly in engineering and business. LSU is known for its research output and graduate programs, especially in fields like petroleum engineering and coastal studies. Rankings can vary year to year, so it's best to consult current rankings from sources like U.S. News & World Report for the most up-to-date information.

  • What is the campus environment like at Clemson versus LSU?

    Clemson offers a more traditional, college-town atmosphere with a strong emphasis on school spirit and traditions. The campus is located in a scenic area near Lake Hartwell. LSU's campus is located in a more urban setting in Baton Rouge, offering a blend of campus life and city amenities. LSU also has a vibrant Greek life and a strong tailgating culture.

  • How do the athletic programs at Clemson and LSU compare?

    Both Clemson and LSU have highly competitive athletic programs, particularly in football. Clemson has achieved significant success in football in recent years, including multiple national championships. LSU also boasts a storied football program with national championships and a passionate fan base. Both universities compete in the NCAA Division I and are members of major athletic conferences (Clemson in the ACC, LSU in the SEC).

  • What are the tuition and fees like at Clemson and LSU?

    Tuition and fees vary depending on residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state). Generally, Clemson and LSU have similar tuition rates for in-state students. However, out-of-state tuition at LSU tends to be slightly higher than at Clemson. It's important to check the official websites of both universities for the most current and accurate cost information, as these figures can change annually.

  • What types of financial aid and scholarships are available at Clemson and LSU?

    Both Clemson and LSU offer a range of financial aid options, including need-based grants, merit-based scholarships, and student loans. The specific scholarships and eligibility requirements vary. Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal aid. Additionally, both universities offer institutional scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria. Check the financial aid websites of both universities for detailed information on available scholarships and application procedures.

  • What are the popular majors at Clemson and LSU?

    At Clemson, popular majors include engineering (particularly mechanical, electrical, and industrial), business administration, computer science, and biological sciences. At LSU, popular majors include engineering (particularly petroleum, chemical, and civil), business administration, biological sciences, and mass communication. Both universities offer a wide range of academic programs, so it's best to explore the specific departments and programs that align with your interests.

  • What are the career opportunities like for graduates of Clemson and LSU?

    Graduates from both Clemson and LSU have strong career prospects. Clemson's graduates are often recruited by companies in the Southeast region and beyond, particularly in manufacturing, technology, and finance. LSU's graduates find opportunities in a variety of industries, including energy, engineering, government, and media, particularly in the Gulf Coast region. Both universities have career services offices that provide resources and support to students in their job search.

  • How do the surrounding cities of Clemson and Baton Rouge compare?

    Clemson is located in a smaller, more rural town in South Carolina, offering a quieter and more focused college experience. Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, is a larger city with a more diverse cultural scene and a wider range of entertainment and dining options. The choice depends on your preference for a small-town or urban environment.

  • What are some unique aspects of Clemson and LSU that might appeal to students?

    Clemson's strong sense of community, traditions like First Friday Parade, and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities (Lake Hartwell, the Blue Ridge Mountains) are appealing. LSU's unique Cajun and Creole culture, vibrant music scene, and strong connection to the state of Louisiana are distinctive features. Consider what aspects of college life are most important to you when making your decision.

Compare Similar Colleges

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