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 • Pasadena, CA & Claremont, CA
When students choose between California Institute of Technology and Claremont McKenna College, they're comparing two elite institutions that represent fundamentally different career trajectories. Both sit in Southern California and command similar net prices, but Caltech channels graduates toward STEM careers while CMC feeds Wall Street and consulting firms.
The earnings data reveals the financial implications of this choice, though the right path depends on your intellectual interests and professional goals.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
—
federal loans
$13,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$27,881
borrowed by parents
$52,129
borrowed by parents
Caltech is predominantly Computer Science-focused, with a program mix of 26% Engineering and 24% other STEM fields. The largest programs include Computer Science (72 graduates annually), Physics (34), and various engineering disciplines.
CMC takes a different approach: 41% Social Sciences concentration, led by Economics (118 graduates), Political Science (36), and Computer Science (35). These program differences directly shape the career trajectories and earning potential that distinguish these institutions.
For students committed to STEM careers, Caltech delivers exceptional financial returns with lower family costs and higher graduate earnings. The $23,830 earnings advantage compounds over a lifetime, making it the stronger financial choice for technical fields.
CMC offers a different value proposition: preparation for finance, consulting, and social sciences with excellent outcomes in those domains. The right choice depends less on financial metrics and more on your intellectual passions and career goals.
If you're genuinely excited about physics, engineering, or computer science, Caltech is the clear pick. If you're drawn to economics, politics, or business, CMC provides better preparation for those paths.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Caltech, 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.
