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Bentley University and Emerson College are both private nonprofit institutions — Bentley University in Waltham, MA and Emerson College in Boston, MA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Waltham, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 45.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 4,474
Tuition: $61,000/year
Student-faculty ratio: 12.0:1
Graduation rate: 86.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Computer science, Social sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Waltham, MA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Computer science.
Boston, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 51.3%
Undergrad enrollment: 3,870
Tuition: $57,056/year
Student-faculty ratio: 14.0:1
Graduation rate: 77.1%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Communication, English
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Boston, MA with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Communication.
| Factor | Bentley University | Emerson College |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 45.1% | 51.3% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1280–1430 |
| 1270–1420 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 28–31 | 29–32 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 4,474 | 3,870 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $61,000/year | $57,056/year |
| Average net price after aid | $37,930 | $49,180 |
| Graduation rate | 86.8% | 77.1% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $120,959 | $62,832 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 12.0:1 | 14.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Waltham, MA | Boston, MA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Computer science, Social sciences | Visual and performing arts, Communication, English |
Bentley University is more selective (45.1% vs 51.3% acceptance rate). Bentley University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($37,930 vs $49,180). Bentley University reports the higher graduation rate (86.8% vs 77.1%). Bentley University is the larger undergraduate campus (4,474 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Bentley University and Emerson College
Bentley University has an acceptance rate of 45.1%; Emerson College is around 51.3%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Bentley University tuition is $61,000/year. Emerson College is $57,056/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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