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 Scripps College, they're choosing between fundamentally different career paths. Both are highly selective private colleges in Southern California with similar published costs, but Caltech prepares students for STEM careers while Scripps focuses on liberal arts education.
The median earnings data reveals the financial implications: Caltech graduates typically earn $128,566 ten years out, compared to $77,539 for Scripps graduates. These aren't comparable schools competing for the same students — they serve different academic missions entirely.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
—
federal loans
$13,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$27,881
borrowed by parents
$57,648
borrowed by parents
Caltech concentrates heavily on STEM fields with 26% Engineering and 24% other STEM programs. The largest programs include Computer Science (72 graduates), Physics (34), and various engineering disciplines.
Scripps takes a liberal arts approach with 14% Social Sciences and 8% Arts programs. Top programs include Research and Experimental Psychology (21 graduates), Political Science (20), and Area Studies (17).
These program differences directly shape career outcomes — Caltech feeds students into high-paying tech and engineering roles, while Scripps prepares graduates for careers in social sciences, communications, and humanities.
For students drawn to engineering, computer science, or physics careers, Caltech delivers exceptional financial returns at surprisingly affordable net prices thanks to generous financial aid. Scripps serves students interested in liberal arts, social sciences, and humanities — fields where earnings potential differs but career fulfillment may come from impact rather than salary.
These schools aren't competitors; they serve distinct educational missions. Choose Caltech if you're passionate about STEM and can handle the intense technical curriculum.
Choose Scripps if you're drawn to liberal arts education, smaller classes, and want a well-rounded undergraduate experience. The 'better' choice depends entirely on your academic interests and career goals, not just financial outcomes.
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.
