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 • Lisle, IL & Duluth, MN
When students choose between Benedictine University and The College of Saint Scholastica, they're comparing two small private Catholic institutions with similar costs but different missions. Benedictine in Lisle, Illinois focuses on business education, while Saint Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota emphasizes health professions.
Both charge around $23,500/year, but the career paths diverge significantly. The data reveals nuanced tradeoffs in outcomes, completion rates, and value delivery.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$22,500
federal loans
$20,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$22,900
borrowed by parents
$16,000
borrowed by parents
Benedictine University is predominantly business-focused, with 31% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Saint Scholastica has a health-centered mission with nursing as its dominant program.
Benedictine's largest programs include Registered Nursing (97 graduates), Health/Medical Preparatory Programs (88), and Psychology (78). Saint Scholastica's flagship program is Registered Nursing with 312 graduates annually, followed by Social Work (71) and Psychology (59).
These program concentrations shape career trajectories and earning potential differently at each institution.
For students prioritizing health careers and completion rates, Saint Scholastica delivers higher graduation rates, better monthly cash flow, and nursing program strength. Benedictine offers stronger business programs, lower costs for low-income students, and impressive earnings outcomes relative to its student demographics.
The data slightly favors Saint Scholastica for overall financial value — the higher graduation rates and lower monthly payments outweigh the modest cost premium. But the right choice depends fundamentally on career interests: business and pre-professional tracks at Benedictine versus health professions at Saint Scholastica.
Both provide solid pathways to middle-class careers at manageable debt levels.
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.
