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 • Elon, NC & Savannah, GA
Choosing between Elon University and Savannah College of Art and Design means choosing between two very different career paths packaged at nearly the same sticker price. Elon, a business-and-communications-focused university in North Carolina, channels graduates into traditional professional careers.
SCAD, a specialized arts institution in Georgia, prepares students for creative industries. The earnings gap between these two paths — $28,591 per year at the median — reflects that program divide more than any difference in institutional quality.
The real question is which path fits your goals.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$20,500
federal loans
$25,148
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$46,609
borrowed by parents
$99,784
borrowed by parents
Elon University concentrates on Business programs, with 29% of graduates earning degrees in business-related fields, including Public Relations and Applied Communication (176 graduates), Finance (152), and Marketing (122). Its program mix also includes Social Sciences at 8% and Arts at 6%.
Savannah College of Art and Design has an entirely different profile: 51% of graduates earn degrees in Visual and Performing Arts. SCAD's largest programs include Design and Applied Arts (694 graduates), Graphic Communications (523), and Film, Video, and Photographic Arts (330).
These two schools are preparing students for fundamentally different industries.
For students prioritizing financial outcomes and career flexibility, Elon University delivers a significantly stronger financial picture — lower net price, manageable debt levels, higher median earnings, and a better graduation rate. SCAD is the right choice for students with a clear commitment to the creative arts who understand the wage realities of those industries and can manage the higher cost and debt burden.
The data strongly favors Elon on financial metrics, but SCAD's specialized arts focus is irreplaceable for the student who knows exactly what they want to create. If you are undecided between business or creative-industry careers, Elon offers more flexibility at lower financial risk.
If the arts are your path, go in clear-eyed about SCAD's 'High Risk' affordability rating and the $1,301 typical monthly payment graduates carry.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Elon, 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.
