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Emerson College and Worcester Polytechnic Institute are both private nonprofit institutions — Emerson College in Boston, MA and Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, 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.
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.
Worcester, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 60.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,447
Tuition: $60,965/year
Student-faculty ratio: 13.0:1
Graduation rate: 89.7%
Top programs: Engineering, Computer science, Biological sciences
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Worcester, MA with published program strength in Engineering and Computer science.
| Factor | Emerson College | Worcester Polytechnic Institute |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 51.3% | 60.2% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1270–1420 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 29–32 | Not reported |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 3,870 | 5,447 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $57,056/year | $60,965/year |
| Average net price after aid | $49,180 | $43,071 |
| Graduation rate | 77.1% | 89.7% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $62,832 | $103,470 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 14.0:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Boston, MA | Worcester, MA |
| Largest program areas | Visual and performing arts, Communication, English | Engineering, Computer science, Biological sciences |
Emerson College is more selective (51.3% vs 60.2% acceptance rate). Worcester Polytechnic Institute has a lower average net price after grant aid ($43,071 vs $49,180). Worcester Polytechnic Institute reports the higher graduation rate (89.7% vs 77.1%). Worcester Polytechnic Institute is the larger undergraduate campus (5,447 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 Emerson College and Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Emerson College has an acceptance rate of 51.3%; Worcester Polytechnic Institute is around 60.2%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Emerson College tuition is $57,056/year. Worcester Polytechnic Institute is $60,965/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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