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 • Washington, DC & Bethlehem, PA
When students choose between Georgetown University and Lehigh University, they're comparing two highly-ranked private institutions with different geographic footprints and academic emphases. Both deliver median earnings exceeding $100,000 ten years after enrollment and rank in the top 10% of colleges nationally on Azimuth's value metrics.
Georgetown sits in Washington DC with strength in social sciences and government, while Lehigh anchors in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley with engineering and business programs. The data reveals comparable outcomes achieved through different institutional approaches.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$15,500
federal loans
$21,960
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$33,944
borrowed by parents
$42,245
borrowed by parents
Georgetown is predominantly social sciences-focused, with 34% of graduates earning degrees in political science, international relations, and economics. The largest programs include Political Science (280 graduates annually), International Relations (251), and Finance (202).
Lehigh has a business emphasis with 32% in business fields and 26% in engineering. Lehigh's top programs include Finance (221 graduates), Computer Science (108), and Mechanical Engineering (101).
These program concentrations shape career trajectories — Georgetown feeding government, policy, and consulting sectors, while Lehigh produces engineering and business professionals.
For students prioritizing engineering or business careers, Lehigh delivers slightly higher median earnings with better affordability and strong institutional effectiveness in boosting graduate outcomes. Georgetown offers unmatched access to government, policy, and international affairs careers in Washington DC, plus exceptional financial aid for low-income students.
Both schools provide excellent value in their respective niches. The data slightly favors Lehigh for pure financial return, but Georgetown excels for students whose career goals align with DC opportunities or who qualify for generous need-based aid.
Choose based on program strength and career aspirations rather than prestige.
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.
