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 • Buies Creek, NC & Owings Mills, MD
Choosing between Campbell University and Stevenson University means weighing modest cost differences against a notable earnings gap — and understanding what drives that gap. Both are medium-sized private nonprofit institutions serving broadly accessible student populations, but they sit in different regions and emphasize different academic programs.
Campbell's strongest pillar is mobility, while Stevenson's is affordability. The data reveals that neither school offers a clear-cut financial advantage, and the decision ultimately hinges on program fit, career goals, and how much debt each family is prepared to carry.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$22,500
federal loans
$26,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$40,055
borrowed by parents
$52,117
borrowed by parents
Campbell University emphasizes Business programs, with roughly 22% of graduates earning degrees in that field, alongside strength in Education. Campbell's largest programs by graduate count include Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education (98 graduates), Business Administration, Management and Operations (84), Psychology (69), Registered Nursing (46), and Engineering (44).
Stevenson University concentrates on Health fields as its dominant area, with a program mix that includes 19% Business and 6% Arts. Stevenson's largest programs include Registered Nursing (187 graduates), Business Administration (74), Biology (52), Psychology (49), and Criminal Justice (42).
These program differences — particularly Stevenson's strong nursing pipeline — help explain the earnings gap between the two institutions.
For students drawn to health sciences — particularly nursing — Stevenson University offers a strong program pipeline and higher median earnings at $62,079 at the median, making it the better choice for students entering those fields. Campbell University, on the other hand, offers a more manageable debt load, lower Parent PLUS borrowing, and earnings that exceed demographic predictions by $2,250 — demonstrating solid institutional effectiveness for the students it serves.
The numbers favor Campbell for cost-conscious families who want strong mobility outcomes and can find their program fit within its offerings. The stronger financial value leans toward Campbell, though for students targeting Stevenson's health programs specifically, the higher earnings trajectory may justify the additional debt burden.
The right choice depends on your program interest, career path, and how your family weighs monthly payment burden against long-term earning potential.
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.
