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 • Needham, MA & Northampton, MA
When students choose between Franklin W Olin College Of Engineering and Smith College, they're choosing between two fundamentally different career paths within Massachusetts private education. Both are selective institutions with strong academic reputations, but one produces engineers earning $129,455 at the median while the other produces liberal arts graduates earning $64,027.
The question isn't which school is better — it's which career direction matches your goals and interests.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$19,500
federal loans
$17,550
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
—
borrowed by parents
$30,366
borrowed by parents
Olin is 100% engineering-focused, with every graduate earning a degree in engineering fields. The largest programs include Mechanical Engineering (36 graduates), General Engineering (35), and Electrical Engineering (19).
Smith has a liberal arts focus with 16% Social Sciences, 8% Arts, and 6% STEM Other. Smith's top programs include Psychology (64 graduates), Biology (58), Computer Science (56), General Engineering (49), and English Literature (48).
This fundamental program difference drives the dramatic earnings gap between institutions.
For students committed to engineering careers, Olin delivers exceptional outcomes at lower cost than Smith — it's an easy financial choice. Smith offers a prestigious liberal arts education with strong programs in psychology, biology, and humanities, making it the better choice for students whose interests and career goals align with those fields.
The data points to Olin as the stronger financial value, but this comparison is really about career path preference. If you're passionate about engineering and math-intensive fields, Olin is transformative.
If you're drawn to social sciences, humanities, or pre-professional tracks, Smith provides the liberal arts foundation you need. Choose based on your academic interests — the earnings will follow.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Franklin W, 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.
