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 • Minneapolis, MN & Joliet, IL
When students choose between University of St Francis and Augsburg University, they're comparing two private Catholic institutions that serve similar Midwest populations but deliver dramatically different value propositions. St Francis costs $7,591 less per year and produces graduates who typically earn $5,097 more.
Both schools emphasize strong return on investment in their Azimuth rankings, but the data reveals one clear financial winner.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,347
federal loans
$21,079
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$17,901
borrowed by parents
$24,148
borrowed by parents
University of St Francis is health-focused, with nursing leading at 112 graduates annually, followed by health administration (66) and business management (22). The program mix emphasizes 20% business alongside the dominant health sciences.
Augsburg University concentrates on business at 22% of graduates, with nursing (52), marketing (41), and biology (35) as top programs. The 22% Business, 9% Social Sciences, 7% Education mix reflects a more traditional liberal arts approach with professional preparation.
For students prioritizing financial value, University of St Francis delivers a rare combination: lower costs and higher earnings. The $7,591 annual savings plus $5,097 earnings advantage creates a compelling financial case.
Augsburg University offers a Twin Cities location, stronger diversity (51% vs 37% Pell recipients), and demonstrates impressive institutional effectiveness in helping students exceed expectations. However, the completion rate gap (65% vs 52%) represents real risk for many students.
The data points to St Francis as the stronger financial choice — but students drawn to Minneapolis, seeking greater diversity, or preferring Augsburg's specific program mix may find the tradeoffs worthwhile despite the higher cost.
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.
