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 • Hanover, NH & Boston, MA
When students choose between MCPHS University and Dartmouth College, they're comparing two dramatically different educational missions. MCPHS is a health sciences specialist in Boston, while Dartmouth is an Ivy League liberal arts college in New Hampshire.
The data reveals that despite Dartmouth's prestigious reputation, MCPHS graduates typically earn significantly more — $125,557 versus $97,434 at the median. This isn't about institutional quality but career pathway: healthcare versus liberal arts preparation.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$17,500
federal loans
$25,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$44,481
borrowed by parents
$46,544
borrowed by parents
MCPHS is predominantly health-focused, with top programs including Nursing (364 graduates), Pharmacy (294), and Health Preparatory Programs (131). These are direct career pipelines into high-paying healthcare fields.
Dartmouth has a more traditional liberal arts mix: 33% Social Sciences, 9% Engineering, 5% Arts. Dartmouth's largest programs include Economics (166 graduates), Political Science (129), and Engineering Science (103).
These fundamental program differences explain the earnings gap — it's career preparation, not educational effectiveness.
For students committed to healthcare careers, MCPHS delivers superior financial outcomes — $28,123 higher median earnings that more than compensate for the $6,465 annual cost difference. Dartmouth offers a prestigious liberal arts education with exceptional completion rates (96% versus 63%) and access to elite networks, making it the better choice for students exploring diverse career paths or prioritizing educational prestige.
The data points to MCPHS as the stronger financial value for healthcare-focused students, but Dartmouth provides broader educational opportunities and completion security. Choose based on career certainty: healthcare specialists should consider MCPHS, while students seeking broad intellectual development should lean toward Dartmouth.
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.
