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 • Waco, TX & Chicago, IL
When students choose between Loyola University Chicago and Baylor University, they're comparing two private institutions with fundamentally different access missions. Loyola serves nearly twice the percentage of low-income students (23% vs 13% Pell recipients) while delivering higher graduate earnings and charging less.
Both emphasize business programs, but Loyola demonstrates stronger outcomes while maintaining broader accessibility. The question becomes whether Baylor's selective reputation justifies the premium.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,000
federal loans
$24,157
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$50,786
borrowed by parents
$54,045
borrowed by parents
Both schools are business-focused, though Baylor shows greater concentration with 32% of graduates earning business degrees compared to Loyola's 21%. Loyola has a more balanced mix including significant health sciences: the largest program is Nursing with 487 graduates annually, followed by Biology (312) and Psychology (262).
Baylor's top programs include Nursing (281 graduates), Biology (229), and Accounting (186). This program composition helps explain why both schools produce similar career trajectories despite different selectivity profiles.
For students prioritizing both affordability and outcomes, Loyola delivers higher graduate earnings at $6,746/year less than Baylor. Baylor offers a more selective environment in Texas with strong business programs, making it the better choice for students who value that selectivity and geographic location.
The data points to Loyola as the stronger financial value — achieving better outcomes while serving a more economically diverse student population. Both schools carry concerning debt burdens, but Loyola's combination of lower cost, higher earnings, and broader accessibility creates compelling advantages for most families.
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.
