* Public vs. Private: Private universities are significantly more expensive than public universities, often by tens of thousands of dollars over the course of a degree.
* In-state vs. Out-of-state: Public universities charge significantly higher tuition to out-of-state students.
* Type of Institution: Highly selective or prestigious universities will generally be more expensive than less selective ones.
* Living Expenses: The cost of living near the university (housing, food, transportation) can add substantially to the overall cost and varies greatly by location.
* Financial Aid: The amount of financial aid received (grants, scholarships, loans) significantly impacts the out-of-pocket cost.
Therefore, it's impossible to give a single average cost. However, some broad estimates can be made:
* Public In-state: Could range from $10,000 to $35,000 for a four-year degree, depending on the state and specific university. This is often the most affordable option.
* Public Out-of-state: Could range from $30,000 to $70,000 or more for a four-year degree.
* Private: Could range from $50,000 to $80,000 or more *per year*, resulting in a total cost of $200,000 to $320,000 or more for a four-year degree.
These are rough estimates. To get a more accurate cost estimate, you need to research the specific universities you're considering and factor in your living expenses and potential financial aid. The university's website is a good starting point for tuition and fee information.