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 & Chicago, IL
Choosing between School Of The Art Institute Of Chicago and Marymount Manhattan College means navigating a set of real financial trade-offs. SAIC carries a higher net price and lower median earnings, yet graduates at a meaningfully higher rate than Marymount Manhattan.
Both schools fall into the 'High Risk' affordability category based on typical debt levels, and both serve students pursuing creative careers in competitive markets. The data reveals that completion risk is the most consequential variable here — a degree only delivers on its promise for students who finish.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,750
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$84,946
borrowed by parents
$77,991
borrowed by parents
School Of The Art Institute Of Chicago is nearly exclusively arts-focused, with 98% of graduates earning degrees in visual and performing arts fields. Fine and Studio Arts is by far the dominant program, producing 589 graduates annually.
Marymount Manhattan College offers a broader mix: 47% arts and 14% business, with Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft as its largest program at 99 graduates, followed by Communication (50), Dance (37), Psychology (19), and Film/Video Arts (18). Students seeking a pure studio arts environment will find SAIC more concentrated; those drawn to performing arts, communications, or interdisciplinary study may find Marymount Manhattan's range a better fit.
For students who complete their degrees, Marymount Manhattan College delivers higher median earnings at a lower annual net price — a meaningful financial advantage. School Of The Art Institute Of Chicago offers a more concentrated fine arts environment in Chicago, a stronger completion record, and a student body that skews somewhat more toward lower Pell grant representation.
The completion gap — 67% at SAIC versus 49% at Marymount Manhattan — is the most important number in this comparison. A student who doesn't finish carries the debt without the credential, and at these price levels that is a serious risk.
Students considering Marymount Manhattan should carefully assess what support systems and personal circumstances will help them persist to graduation. Those drawn to studio arts specifically, or who prioritize degree completion, may find SAIC's track record more reassuring despite its higher annual cost.
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.
