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 • Waterville, ME & San Rafael, CA
When students choose between Dominican University of California and Colby College, they're comparing institutions with fundamentally different missions serving different populations. Dominican admits 96% of applicants and serves 30% Pell grant recipients in San Rafael, California.
Colby admits just 7% and serves 13% low-income students in rural Maine. Yet both produce graduates earning over $80,000 at the median — the question becomes which path aligns with your values and financial circumstances.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$19,157
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$59,570
borrowed by parents
$54,119
borrowed by parents
Dominican is health-focused, with nursing leading graduation counts at 102 students annually, followed by business administration (47) and psychology (37). The program mix includes 14% business and 6% arts programs.
Colby emphasizes social sciences at 22% of graduates, with economics (69 graduates), natural resources conservation (62), and political science (52) leading the way. Dominican prepares students for healthcare and professional careers, while Colby focuses on liberal arts education and graduate school preparation.
For students seeking strong career outcomes with different philosophical approaches, both schools deliver. Dominican excels at serving diverse, first-generation students and producing graduates who outperform demographic expectations — earning more than Colby graduates despite serving a more challenging population.
Colby offers the traditional liberal arts experience with exceptional financial aid for admitted students. The data suggests Dominican provides remarkable value for accessibility-focused families, while Colby serves students seeking elite liberal arts education.
Choose based on educational mission alignment and financial capacity, not just rankings.
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.
