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 • Hackettstown, NJ & Sparkill, NY
Choosing between St. Thomas Aquinas College and Centenary University means weighing two small private colleges serving the NY–NJ corridor at nearly the same price point.
On the surface, this looks like a straightforward comparison — but the data reveals a real tension. St.
Thomas Aquinas graduates typically earn more at the median 10 years out, yet Centenary does a better job of lifting graduates beyond what their backgrounds would predict. Both schools sit in the broad access tier and carry similar debt burdens, making program fit and long-term career trajectory the real drivers of this decision.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,163
federal loans
$23,198
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$22,725
borrowed by parents
$32,425
borrowed by parents
Both institutions emphasize Business as their dominant program family, but their mixes differ in important ways. St.
Thomas Aquinas spreads graduates more evenly across fields — 18% Business, 16% Education, 7% Social Sciences — with top programs in Psychology (33 graduates), Sports and Kinesiology (32), and Teacher Education (27). Centenary concentrates more heavily in Business, with 35% of graduates earning degrees in that field, followed by 11% Education and 9% Arts.
Its largest program is Business Administration (88 graduates), with Animal Services and Psychology also prominent. These different distributions shape career trajectories and, on average, influence earnings outcomes over time.
For students focused on median earnings at the 10-year mark, St. Thomas Aquinas College holds a notable advantage in raw outcomes.
For students who want a school that consistently outperforms demographic predictions — and who may benefit from Centenary's stronger mobility pillar — Centenary University makes a compelling case despite lower median earnings. The financial picture is nearly identical on a yearly basis, but Centenary's lower Parent PLUS borrowing and stronger institutional effectiveness ranking give it an edge in overall value for many families.
St. Thomas Aquinas is the stronger choice if you're drawn to its Education or Psychology programs and value its access-focused mission for low-income students.
The right answer hinges on your intended program, career goals, and how your family plans to finance the investment. Neither school is a runaway winner — this is genuinely a fit-first decision.
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.
