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 • Muncie, IN & Carrollton, GA
When students choose between University of West Georgia and Ball State University, they're comparing two similar public universities with a hidden difference. Both schools cost around $15,500/year and offer business-focused programs.
But Ball State graduates 63% of students while West Georgia graduates just 43%. This 20 percentage point completion gap transforms what looks like a straightforward comparison into a question about academic support and student success systems.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,250
federal loans
$23,970
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$20,800
borrowed by parents
$15,047
borrowed by parents
Both schools emphasize business programs as their dominant field. West Georgia is predominantly business-focused, with 25% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by social sciences (15%) and education (7%).
Ball State has a more balanced mix: 21% business, 10% education, 7% arts. West Georgia's largest programs include Business Administration (180 graduates) and Psychology (176).
Ball State's top programs include Liberal Arts and Sciences (249) and Radio/Television/Digital Communication (220). These program concentrations shape career outcomes but don't explain the completion rate differences.
For students prioritizing completion likelihood, Ball State delivers meaningfully better odds of degree completion at essentially the same cost. West Georgia offers strong value for students who finish — achieving earnings beyond demographic expectations — but serves as a higher-risk choice given completion rates.
Ball State emerges as the safer financial bet, with 20 percentage points higher graduation rates and comparable outcomes for completers. The data points to Ball State as the stronger choice for most students, though individual success depends on academic preparation, support systems, and personal circumstances.
If completion risk is a concern, Ball State provides better odds.
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.
