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 • Rock Island, IL & Waverly, IA
When students choose between Augustana College and Wartburg College, they're comparing two Midwest private liberal arts colleges where one clearly outperforms the other financially. Both emphasize undergraduate education and close faculty-student relationships, but Augustana costs significantly less while producing notably higher earnings.
The question becomes straightforward: why pay more for less? These neighboring institutions — Augustana in Rock Island, Illinois and Wartburg in Waverly, Iowa — serve similar student populations but deliver very different value propositions.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$37,219
borrowed by parents
$27,152
borrowed by parents
Both schools are predominantly biological sciences-focused, with Biology among the top programs at each institution. Augustana has a more balanced program mix: 15% Business, 9% Social Sciences, 6% Education.
Wartburg emphasizes 17% Business, 12% Education, 6% Social Sciences. Augustana's largest programs include Biology (99 graduates), Psychology (53), and Business Administration (52).
Wartburg's top programs are Business/Commerce (49 graduates), Biology (41), and Teacher Education (28). Despite similar program concentrations, Augustana graduates typically earn more across career paths.
For students prioritizing financial value, Augustana College delivers superior outcomes on every major metric: lower net price, higher earnings, and better completion rates. Wartburg offers a smaller college experience in rural Iowa, which may appeal to students seeking that specific environment, but the financial picture strongly favors Augustana.
The data points to Augustana as the clear winner — you pay $10,167 less per year and earn $6,770 more at the median, while being more likely to graduate. Individual results depend on major, career path, and personal circumstances, but Augustana represents the stronger financial investment for typical graduates.
Unless Wartburg offers a specific program or campus culture you can't find elsewhere, Augustana provides better value.
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.
