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 & Crawfordsville, IN
When students choose between Wabash College and Carleton College, they're comparing two distinctive liberal arts paths. Wabash, an all-male college in Indiana, offers a traditional liberal arts experience at a lower price point.
Carleton, a coeducational college in Minnesota, provides a more selective liberal arts education with higher earnings outcomes. The core question becomes whether Carleton's premium justifies the additional investment.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$31,271
borrowed by parents
$28,000
borrowed by parents
Wabash College is predominantly Social Sciences-focused, with 25% of graduates earning degrees in fields like Political Science (27 graduates) and Economics (22 graduates). Carleton College has a more balanced academic mix: 16% Social Sciences, 11% Arts, 10% STEM fields.
Carleton's largest programs include Computer Science (71 graduates) and Biology (61 graduates), reflecting its stronger emphasis on quantitative fields. This program composition helps explain the earnings differences between the institutions, with Carleton's STEM strength translating to higher median salaries.
For students prioritizing immediate affordability, Wabash offers solid liberal arts education at $5,414/year less than Carleton. However, Carleton delivers higher earnings potential, dramatically better graduation rates, and surprisingly manageable debt levels despite the higher sticker price.
The data points to Carleton as the stronger overall value — the higher earnings and 91% completion rate outweigh the modest price premium. Wabash remains the better choice for students specifically drawn to its all-male environment and can manage the tighter post-graduation budget constraints.
The decision ultimately comes down to fit: Carleton for students seeking maximum outcomes, Wabash for those prioritizing upfront costs and traditional liberal arts culture.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Carleton, 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.
