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 • Elmira, NY & Louisville, KY
When students choose between Spalding University and Elmira College, they're comparing two small private institutions with similar missions but different financial outcomes. Both schools emphasize health sciences and serve comparable student populations with broad access admission policies.
The data reveals a classic higher education tradeoff: Elmira delivers meaningfully higher earnings, but at the cost of significantly more family debt.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$25,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$41,567
borrowed by parents
$17,500
borrowed by parents
Both schools are health-focused institutions with nursing as their flagship program. Spalding's program mix includes 18% Business and 8% Arts, while Elmira features 22% Business and 14% Education.
Spalding's largest programs include Registered Nursing (59 graduates), Psychology (23), and Health Sciences (23). Elmira's top programs include Registered Nursing (46 graduates), Business Administration (33), and Psychology (19).
This similar program composition helps explain why both attract comparable student demographics.
For students prioritizing lower debt levels and manageable payments, Spalding University offers the more conservative financial path with decent outcomes for the health sciences. Elmira College delivers meaningfully higher earnings that can justify the extra family investment — but only for students confident in their career path and comfortable with payment stress.
The data points to a genuine tradeoff rather than a clear winner. Families should consider their debt tolerance, career certainty, and ability to manage $714/month payments when choosing between these options.
Both serve students well, but through different financial models.
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.
