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 • Glenside, PA & Huntsville, AL
Choosing between Oakwood University and Arcadia University means choosing between two small private nonprofit schools with strikingly different completion stories. Both emphasize biological sciences and have overlapping program offerings, but the graduation rate gap — 44.
6% at Oakwood versus 66. 7% at Arcadia — is among the most consequential differences students can encounter.
A diploma deferred or never earned has compounding financial consequences, making completion rates the critical lens for this comparison. The earnings data reinforces this: Arcadia graduates, at the median, earn substantially more ten years out.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$29,652
borrowed by parents
$20,000
borrowed by parents
Both Oakwood University and Arcadia University have Biological Sciences as their dominant program family. Oakwood's top programs include Biology, General (40 graduates), Liberal Arts and Sciences (32), Social Work (12), Practical Nursing (11), and Theological and Ministerial Studies (11), with Business representing about 15% of the mix — reflecting a mission-driven, liberal arts foundation with a health-sciences emphasis.
Arcadia's largest programs include Biology, General (60 graduates), Psychology (45), Communication (24), Business Administration (19), and Criminology (17), with a broader mix spanning 14% Business, 10% Arts, and 8% Social Sciences. Arcadia's program diversity may support wider career pathways for typical graduates.
For students focused on completion rates and long-term earnings, Arcadia University presents the stronger financial outcome despite its higher annual net price. The 22-percentage-point graduation gap is not a minor footnote — students who don't complete their degrees carry debt without the earnings benefit, and Oakwood's 44.
6% graduation rate means a majority of enrolled students historically do not finish. Oakwood University may be the better fit for students drawn to its faith-based mission, Huntsville's Alabama campus environment, or specific programs like theological studies and practical nursing.
But the data points to Arcadia as the stronger financial value for students whose primary goal is degree completion and career earnings. The right choice ultimately depends on your academic goals, support needs, and what each campus community offers your individual circumstances.
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.
