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 • Cleveland, OH & Columbia, MO
When students choose between Stephens College and Cleveland Institute of Art, they're comparing two creative paths with vastly different price tags. Both small private colleges prepare students for arts careers and produce similar median earnings around $42,500-$43,000.
But Cleveland Institute costs $18,203/year more — and the debt data reveals the true family burden. The question isn't which school is 'better' artistically, but whether the premium justifies the financial risk.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$60,640
borrowed by parents
$27,900
borrowed by parents
Both schools are arts-focused but with different concentrations. Stephens College is predominantly Visual & Performing Arts-focused, with 32% of graduates earning arts degrees alongside 17% in business.
Cleveland Institute of Art is heavily specialized at 79% arts graduates. Stephens' largest programs include Drama/Theatre Arts (18 graduates), Health and Medical Administrative Services (16), and Specialized Sales/Marketing (13).
Cleveland Institute concentrates on Design and Applied Arts (60 graduates), Fine and Studio Arts (51), and Graphic Communications (20). This specialization difference shapes career paths but doesn't translate to different earnings outcomes.
For families prioritizing financial sustainability in arts education, Stephens College delivers comparable career outcomes at $18,203/year less than Cleveland Institute of Art. Cleveland Institute offers deeper artistic specialization and higher completion rates, making it the better choice for students confident in their artistic commitment and able to manage substantial debt.
The data points to Stephens as the stronger financial value — identical earnings potential with $32,740 less total family debt. However, the 21-percentage-point completion gap at Stephens represents a real risk that prospective students must weigh carefully.
The right choice depends on your artistic focus, financial capacity, and completion confidence.
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.
