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 • Kennesaw, GA & San Antonio, TX
When students choose between Kennesaw State University and The University of Texas at San Antonio, they're comparing two large public universities that deliver nearly identical career outcomes at very different costs. Both serve diverse student populations and feed graduates into regional job markets.
The data reveals a clear value arbitrage: UTSA achieves the same results for $5,738 less per year.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,833
federal loans
$20,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$19,000
borrowed by parents
$13,859
borrowed by parents
Both schools are predominantly Business-focused, with Kennesaw graduating 21% in business fields and UTSA at 20%. Kennesaw has a slight engineering emphasis (10% vs 8%), while both maintain similar educational program shares.
Kennesaw's largest programs include Psychology (390 graduates), Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies (350), and Business Administration (289). UTSA's top programs feature Psychology (482), Kinesiology (355), and Communication (289).
These similar program mixes help explain the comparable earnings outcomes despite the cost difference.
For students prioritizing financial value, UTSA delivers identical career outcomes at $5,738/year less than Kennesaw State. Kennesaw offers stronger institutional effectiveness and serves as a pathway for students predicted to earn less, making it valuable for Georgia residents seeking mobility.
UTSA provides the same earnings potential with better affordability and manageable debt levels. The data points to UTSA as the stronger financial value for out-of-state students, but Georgia residents should weigh in-state benefits carefully.
If cost is a primary concern and you're choosing between these two options, UTSA is the clear financial winner.
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.
