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 • Richmond, IN & Notre Dame, IN
When students choose between Earlham College and Holy Cross College, they're comparing two small private colleges in Indiana with similar price points and career outcomes. But the data reveals a critical difference: completion rates.
While both schools serve comparable student populations and produce similar earnings for graduates, Earlham helps 68% of students reach the finish line compared to Holy Cross's 29%. This completion gap transforms the entire value equation for families making a substantial financial investment.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,488
federal loans
$24,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$23,050
borrowed by parents
$20,053
borrowed by parents
Earlham has strength in Biological Sciences, with a balanced program mix including 15% Business, 10% STEM fields, and 8% Social Sciences. The largest programs include Business Administration (40 graduates), Biology (19), and Biochemistry (17).
Holy Cross focuses heavily on Business programs, with 42% of graduates earning business degrees. Their top programs include Business/Commerce (38 graduates), Psychology (19), and Communication (15).
These different academic emphases reflect distinct institutional missions but lead to similar career outcomes.
For students choosing between these Indiana colleges, Earlham delivers the stronger value proposition due to dramatically higher completion rates. Both schools charge similar amounts and produce comparable earnings for graduates, but Earlham more than doubles your odds of actually graduating.
Holy Cross offers business-focused programs and may appeal to students drawn to that specific concentration, but the 29% graduation rate represents a substantial risk for most families. The data points to Earlham as the safer investment — you're paying similar amounts but getting significantly better odds of degree completion and career outcomes.
Individual results depend on academic preparation and fit, but the completion gap is too large to ignore.
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.
