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 • Provo, UT & Ithaca, NY
Choosing between Cornell University and Brigham Young University means weighing a significant earnings premium against a significant cost difference. Cornell, located in Ithaca, NY, draws on a highly selective applicant pool and produces graduates who earn substantially more at the median.
BYU, based in Provo, UT, offers a remarkably affordable private university education with strong outcomes of its own. The data reveals a genuine tradeoff: higher earnings at Cornell come at a higher price, while BYU delivers impressive financial value relative to what students pay.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$11,069
federal loans
$14,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$9,699
borrowed by parents
$38,000
borrowed by parents
Cornell University emphasizes Computer Science as its dominant program field, with a program mix of 12% Engineering, 12% Business, and 9% Social Sciences. Top programs include Computer Science (504 graduates), Biology (290), Human Resources Management (282), Hospitality Administration (226), and Computer and Information Sciences (220).
Brigham Young University concentrates on Business fields, with 14% Business, 8% Engineering, and 7% Social Sciences. BYU's top programs include Physiology and Pathology Sciences (306 graduates), Human Development and Family Studies (300), Accounting (269), Computer/IT Administration (209), and Finance (198).
These program concentrations help explain much of the earnings gap between the two institutions.
For students drawn to Computer Science, Engineering, and high-earning technical or finance careers, Cornell University delivers a substantial earnings advantage — $28,253 more per year at the median — that the data suggests outpaces its higher cost for most graduates. Cornell also offers exceptionally low net prices for low-income students at $1,776/year, making it genuinely accessible to families who qualify for strong financial aid.
Brigham Young University, however, is no consolation prize: it ranks in the 98th percentile nationally, outperforms earnings expectations, and carries far lighter debt burdens for both students and parents. For families prioritizing affordability, lower Parent PLUS borrowing, and strong career outcomes in business and health sciences, BYU delivers outstanding value.
The stronger financial outcome belongs to Cornell for high-earning-program students with typical debt levels — but BYU is the clear pick for families focused on minimizing total borrowing and achieving solid long-term outcomes.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Cornell, 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.
