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 • Boston, MA & Olympia, WA
When students choose between Massachusetts College Of Art And Design and The Evergreen State College, they're comparing two public institutions that attract creative, non-traditional learners. Both offer alternative approaches to higher education — MassArt through specialized arts training in Boston, Evergreen through interdisciplinary liberal studies in Olympia.
But the completion data reveals a critical difference: nearly 70% of MassArt students graduate, while fewer than half of Evergreen students complete their degrees.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,755
federal loans
$20,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$37,000
borrowed by parents
$24,950
borrowed by parents
MassArt is overwhelmingly arts-focused, with 92% of graduates earning degrees in Visual & Performing Arts. The largest programs include Design and Applied Arts (154 graduates), Fine and Studio Arts (97), and Film/Video and Photographic Arts (81).
Evergreen takes a fundamentally different approach with Liberal Arts and Sciences as its dominant program (628 graduates), plus Biological and Physical Sciences (161). This program composition explains why the schools attract different student populations despite similar alternative education philosophies.
For students prioritizing degree completion, MassArt delivers significantly better outcomes with a 25-percentage-point completion advantage that justifies the modest cost premium. Evergreen offers a unique liberal arts experience for self-directed learners who thrive in unstructured environments, but the low completion rate makes it risky for students who need external structure to succeed.
The data points to MassArt as the stronger choice for most students — the focused arts curriculum, Boston location, and proven track record of graduating students outweigh the slightly higher cost. Choose Evergreen only if you're highly self-motivated and specifically drawn to its experimental approach to education.
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.
