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 • Fort Valley, GA & Winona, MN
Choosing between Winona State University in Minnesota and Fort Valley State University in Georgia means weighing very different financial outcomes against very different price points. Winona State's health and nursing-focused programs feed graduates into a Midwest labor market that typically rewards completers well.
Fort Valley State's business and social science emphasis serves a predominantly low-income student population in rural Georgia. The earnings gap between the two is significant — but so are the debt burdens, graduation rates, and affordability risks each path carries.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$31,000
federal loans
$21,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$17,705
borrowed by parents
$19,316
borrowed by parents
Winona State University emphasizes Health fields, with Registered Nursing its largest program at 223 graduates annually. The institution also has strength in Education (16% of graduates) and Business (16%), with Social Work and Psychology rounding out the top five programs.
Fort Valley State University concentrates on Business fields — 15% of graduates — alongside Criminal Justice, Psychology, Biology, and Communication. These divergent program profiles help explain the earnings gap: nursing and health-adjacent careers in Minnesota typically command stronger salaries than the broader mix at Fort Valley State.
For students focused on long-term earnings and manageable loan payments, Winona State University delivers a stronger financial outcome at the median. Its health-focused programs, higher graduation rate, and 'Good' affordability tier translate into a more predictable path to financial stability after graduation.
Fort Valley State University serves a critical mission — providing access to higher education for a predominantly low-income student population in rural Georgia — and its lower annual net price is genuinely meaningful for families with limited resources. However, the High Risk affordability rating, higher total debt at graduation, and lower median earnings combine to create a more challenging financial picture for the typical graduate.
Students drawn to Fort Valley State for its access mission, location, or specific programs should plan carefully around debt levels and repayment options. Those prioritizing financial outcomes and career earnings should give Winona State serious consideration.
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.
