Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • San Francisco, CA & Chapel Hill, NC
When students choose between San Francisco State University and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, they're comparing two large public universities with similar costs but vastly different completion rates. Both charge around $13,000/year in net price, but UNC Chapel Hill graduates 92% of students while San Francisco State graduates only 50%.
This completion gap transforms the real cost of education — many San Francisco State students will pay without earning a degree.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$15,371
federal loans
$14,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$19,732
borrowed by parents
$25,072
borrowed by parents
San Francisco State is predominantly Business-focused, with 24% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. UNC Chapel Hill has a more balanced mix: 15% Social Sciences, 7% Business.
San Francisco State's largest programs include Business Administration (1,477 graduates annually) and Psychology (408). UNC Chapel Hill's top programs include Communication (598 graduates) and Biology (545).
This program composition influences career trajectories, though completion rates matter more than program mix for many students.
For students prioritizing degree completion and career outcomes, UNC Chapel Hill delivers dramatically better results at the same cost. San Francisco State offers access to higher education in California and serves a more diverse student population, making it valuable for students who need broad access — but the completion risk is substantial.
The data points to UNC Chapel Hill as the stronger value proposition for students confident they can gain admission. However, San Francisco State's open access model serves students who might not qualify elsewhere, fulfilling a different but important mission in public higher education.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
