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 • Milwaukee, WI & Saint Louis, MO
When students choose between Maryville University Of Saint Louis and Marquette University, they're weighing similar educational investments with different career trajectories. Both private institutions offer comprehensive programs at comparable net prices, but the earnings data reveals a notable difference.
Maryville serves the Saint Louis market with strength in health sciences, while Marquette brings business and engineering focus to the Milwaukee region. The question becomes whether a $3,190/year price difference translates to meaningful career advantages.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,940
federal loans
$22,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$45,500
borrowed by parents
$18,781
borrowed by parents
Maryville is predominantly health-focused, with nursing leading at 180 graduates annually, followed by psychology and intelligence operations programs. The university emphasizes practical health sciences alongside business programs (18% of graduates).
Marquette has a more balanced mix with 23% business, 11% engineering, and 11% social sciences graduates. Marquette's largest programs include biology (200 graduates), nursing (145), finance (141), and communications (119).
These program concentrations help explain the earnings differences, as Marquette's business and engineering emphasis typically leads to higher-paying career paths.
For students prioritizing earnings potential and willing to manage higher debt, Marquette delivers notably stronger career outcomes that justify the premium. Maryville offers solid health sciences programs and strong value-added performance at a more manageable debt level, making it the better choice for students prioritizing affordability or pursuing nursing and health careers.
The data points to Marquette as the stronger long-term financial investment, but the right choice depends on your program interests, family budget, and debt tolerance. If you can handle the payments and parent borrowing, Marquette's earning advantage provides clear value.
If affordability is paramount, Maryville delivers strong outcomes at lower financial risk.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Marquette, 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.
