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 • Northfield, MN & Jacksonville, FL
When students choose between Jacksonville University and Carleton College, they're comparing two very different educational environments that serve distinct student populations. Jacksonville, a health-focused institution in Florida, serves 30% Pell grant recipients and 36% first-generation students.
Carleton, a highly selective liberal arts college in Minnesota, serves 14% Pell recipients and 16% first-generation students. The earnings data reveals an unexpected pattern: Jacksonville's graduates significantly outperform demographic predictions, while Carleton's underperform despite higher selectivity.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$22,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$31,271
borrowed by parents
$26,267
borrowed by parents
Jacksonville is predominantly health-focused, with nursing leading the way (338 graduates annually), followed by air transportation (33), psychology (28), and business administration (28). This professional orientation shapes career trajectories toward healthcare and aviation fields.
Carleton emphasizes liberal arts with 16% Social Sciences, 11% Arts, and 10% STEM programs. Top programs include Computer Science (71 graduates), Biology (61), International Relations (48), Mathematics (47), and Economics (45).
These different academic concentrations lead to distinct career pathways and earning patterns.
For students from working-class backgrounds seeking strong career outcomes, Jacksonville delivers exceptional institutional effectiveness despite lower completion rates. The typical Jacksonville graduate significantly outearns demographic predictions while managing reasonable debt levels.
Carleton offers the security of a 91% graduation rate and higher absolute earnings, making it the better choice for students who can manage the academic rigor and want the liberal arts experience. The data points to Jacksonville as the stronger value for students who complete their programs — but Carleton provides much greater assurance you'll actually graduate.
The right choice depends on your academic preparation, family circumstances, and tolerance for completion risk.
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.
