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 • Moorhead, MN & Waverly, IA
When students choose between Wartburg College and Concordia College At Moorhead, they're comparing two Lutheran liberal arts institutions with strikingly similar missions but subtle differences in outcomes. Both schools emphasize undergraduate education in intimate settings, with Wartburg serving Iowa and Concordia anchored in Minnesota.
The data reveals modest advantages for Concordia in earnings and graduation rates, though Wartburg offers slightly lower costs. This comparison comes down to regional fit and specific program priorities rather than dramatic financial differences.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$26,847
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$29,471
borrowed by parents
$27,152
borrowed by parents
Wartburg College is predominantly biological sciences-focused, with strong representation across 17% Business, 12% Education, and 6% Social Sciences programs. Top programs include Business/Commerce General (49 graduates), Biology General (41), and Teacher Education (28).
Concordia College At Moorhead emphasizes business programs at 20% of graduates, followed by 10% Education and 6% Arts. Concordia's largest programs include Business Administration and Management (63 graduates), Biology General (52), and Communication General (30).
Both schools maintain broad liberal arts offerings with particular strength in pre-professional preparation.
For students prioritizing immediate affordability, Wartburg delivers comparable outcomes at $3,047/year less than Concordia. Concordia offers modestly higher earnings potential and a 5-percentage-point graduation rate advantage, making it the better choice for students confident about completion and seeking maximum earning potential.
The data shows both schools provide similar value propositions — Lutheran liberal arts education with solid career preparation. Neither dramatically outperforms the other financially, so the right choice depends on regional preferences, specific program strengths, campus culture fit, and family budget constraints.
Visit both campuses to determine which feels like the better personal match for your undergraduate experience.
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.
