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 York, NY & Sarasota, FL
When students choose between Marymount Manhattan College and Ringling College of Art and Design, they're weighing two private arts colleges with vastly different price tags. Both specialize in visual and performing arts, but Marymount costs $18,353 less per year while producing graduates who earn more.
The hidden cost lies in family borrowing: parents take on $29,174 more debt for Ringling on average. This comparison reveals how dramatically costs can vary even within the same specialized field.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,750
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$84,946
borrowed by parents
$114,120
borrowed by parents
Marymount Manhattan is arts-focused, with 57% of graduates earning degrees in Visual & Performing Arts fields. The largest programs include Drama/Theatre Arts (149 graduates), Dance (61), and Communication (40).
Ringling concentrates even more heavily on arts at 66%, specializing in Design and Applied Arts (135 graduates), Graphic Communications (113), and Film/Video production (44). Both schools feed directly into creative industries, though Ringling's emphasis on commercial design contrasts with Marymount's strength in performance arts.
For students prioritizing financial value in arts education, Marymount Manhattan delivers better outcomes at dramatically lower cost — $18,353 less per year with graduates earning $5,806 more. Ringling offers stronger graduation rates (71% vs 50%) and specialized design programs, making it potentially worthwhile for students specifically drawn to commercial arts who can manage the higher debt burden.
The data strongly favors Marymount as the better financial choice, but families should weigh program fit and completion likelihood. If cost is a primary concern, Marymount provides arts education without the crushing debt burden that makes Ringling financially risky for most families.
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.
