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 • Mount Berry, GA & Deland, FL
When students choose between Stetson University and Berry College, they're comparing two private liberal arts institutions with remarkably similar cost structures but subtle outcome differences. Both schools charge around $21,300 per year and serve middle-income families seeking personalized education experiences.
However, the completion and earnings data reveals modest but meaningful differences. Located in DeLand, Florida, Stetson emphasizes business programs, while Berry College in Mount Berry, Georgia, focuses on biological sciences and experiential learning.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,250
federal loans
$23,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$29,771
borrowed by parents
$48,703
borrowed by parents
Stetson University is predominantly business-focused, with 31% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by 10% in arts and 8% in social sciences. Berry College emphasizes biological sciences, with a more diversified mix including 17% business and 8% education programs.
Stetson's largest programs include Psychology (83 graduates annually), Finance (73), and Health Sciences (58). Berry's top programs feature Zoology/Animal Biology (47 graduates), Psychology (42), and Registered Nursing (37).
These different academic concentrations help explain the modest earnings differences between institutions.
For students prioritizing completion rates and career earnings, Berry College delivers modestly higher outcomes with similar affordability. Berry offers biological sciences strength, higher graduation rates, and a $2,158 earnings advantage that justifies its negligible cost premium.
Stetson offers business program strength and demonstrates impressive institutional effectiveness serving more first-generation and low-income students. The data slightly favors Berry for pure outcomes, but the right choice depends on your academic interests, learning environment preferences, and family circumstances.
Both represent solid private liberal arts options, with Berry having a slight edge in completion and earnings, while Stetson excels at supporting diverse student populations through degree completion.
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.
