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 • Milwaukee, WI & Pepper Pike, OH
When students choose between Ursuline College in Ohio and Alverno College in Wisconsin, they're comparing two remarkably similar institutions. Both are small, Catholic colleges with nursing programs as their academic backbone.
The fundamental difference is geographic — Ohio versus Wisconsin — with modest variations in cost and outcomes. The data reveals comparable value propositions where personal fit matters more than financial advantage.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$26,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$18,500
borrowed by parents
$22,449
borrowed by parents
Both institutions concentrate on health professions, with nursing dominating their graduate counts. Ursuline's largest program is Registered Nursing with 107 graduates, followed by Psychology (13) and Social Work (10).
Alverno also leads with nursing at 88 graduates, but shows more program diversity with Liberal Arts (38), Teacher Education (29), Psychology (18), and Business Administration (17). Alverno's program mix includes 18% Education and 12% Business, offering broader career pathways beyond healthcare compared to Ursuline's more concentrated health focus.
For students prioritizing nursing education with Catholic values, both institutions deliver strong outcomes with different geographic advantages. Ursuline offers modestly higher earnings ($3,733 more) but costs $1,305 more per year — the financial differences largely offset each other.
Alverno demonstrates superior institutional effectiveness, achieving comparable career preparation while serving more first-generation and low-income students. The choice should focus on location preference (Ohio versus Wisconsin), specific program offerings beyond nursing, and campus culture fit rather than dramatic value differences.
Both represent solid educational investments for healthcare-focused students.
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.
