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 • New Orleans, LA & Tulsa, OK
Choosing between Oral Roberts University and Loyola University New Orleans means comparing two private, similarly-sized institutions that cost roughly the same and graduate students at similar rates — yet send them on noticeably different earnings trajectories over time. ORU, rooted in Tulsa's faith-based academic tradition, and Loyola New Orleans, situated in a culturally distinct Gulf Coast city, each attract different student populations and program mixes.
The data reveals that while Loyola New Orleans graduates earn more at the median 10 years out, ORU's graduates consistently outperform earnings predictions based on their student demographics — a sign of meaningful institutional lift.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$26,000
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$27,371
borrowed by parents
$28,450
borrowed by parents
Oral Roberts University emphasizes Business programs, with approximately 21% of graduates earning degrees in that field, alongside a notable Arts concentration at 6%. ORU's top programs by graduate volume include Theological and Ministerial Studies (61 graduates), Psychology (50), Business Administration (45), Sports and Kinesiology (36), and Registered Nursing (35) — reflecting a faith-integrated, professionally diverse curriculum.
Loyola University New Orleans concentrates on Visual and Performing Arts at roughly 21%, with Business at 19% and Social Sciences at 14%. Loyola's largest programs include Psychology (69 graduates), Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management (56), Criminology (46), Finance (29), and Marketing (28).
These distinct academic profiles shape career paths and earnings potential for typical graduates at each institution.
For students drawn to a faith-integrated academic environment in Tulsa, Oral Roberts University delivers outcomes that meet or exceed demographic expectations, with a similarly priced education and strong mobility outcomes as its leading institutional strength. Loyola University New Orleans offers higher median earnings at the 10-year mark and a vibrant New Orleans setting, with program strengths in arts, media, criminology, and business — making it a better fit for students seeking those specific career paths and cultural environment.
The data points to ORU as the stronger performer relative to its student population, but Loyola New Orleans's higher raw earnings make it a reasonable choice for students whose program interests align with its offerings. Both institutions carry meaningful debt burdens and fall into the stressed-but-possible repayment range, so students at either school should carefully plan for loan management.
The right choice depends on your program priorities, geographic preference, and whether faith-centered education is a factor in your decision.
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.
