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 • Green Bay, WI & Omaha, NE
When students choose between College of Saint Mary and Bellin College, they're comparing two health-focused institutions with different missions and outcomes. Both prepare students for healthcare careers, but Bellin's specialized focus produces higher-earning graduates at a premium price.
Saint Mary offers broader access and affordability while maintaining strong nursing programs. The question becomes: which path better fits your career goals and financial situation?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$18,000
federal loans
$24,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$18,000
borrowed by parents
$21,389
borrowed by parents
Both institutions are health-focused, but with different emphases. College of Saint Mary has a more diverse program mix, with nursing as its flagship (57 graduates annually) alongside rehabilitation therapy (43 graduates), liberal arts (13), and legal support services (10).
Bellin College operates as a specialized health sciences institution, graduating 123 nursing students annually plus 20 in allied health diagnostics. Saint Mary's broader curriculum includes 7% education programs, offering more career flexibility beyond pure healthcare specialization.
For students prioritizing specialized health sciences training with maximum earning potential, Bellin College delivers superior career outcomes that justify the higher cost. College of Saint Mary offers broader program diversity, stronger access for low-income students, and respectable nursing preparation at a more manageable price point.
The data points to Bellin as the stronger financial investment for healthcare-focused students who can manage the higher upfront costs. However, Saint Mary remains the better choice for students needing affordability, program flexibility, or who value the institution's commitment to serving diverse populations.
Your decision should align with both your career specificity and financial capacity.
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.
