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 • Philadelphia, PA & Hoboken, NJ
When students choose between Moore College of Art and Design and Stevens Institute of Technology, they're choosing between fundamentally different career trajectories. Moore prepares artists and designers in Philadelphia, while Stevens trains engineers in Hoboken.
Both are private institutions serving the greater Philadelphia-New York corridor, but the financial outcomes reflect vastly different professional paths. The question isn't which school is better — it's which career path aligns with your goals and financial capacity.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$26,000
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$68,228
borrowed by parents
$53,192
borrowed by parents
Moore is overwhelmingly arts-focused, with 90% of graduates earning degrees in Visual & Performing Arts. The largest programs include Design and Applied Arts (38 graduates annually), Visual and Performing Arts (8), and Film/Video Arts (7).
Stevens concentrates on engineering, with 57% of graduates in engineering fields and 12% in business. Top programs include Mechanical Engineering (141 graduates), Business Administration (89), and Computer Engineering (76).
These program concentrations directly drive the dramatic earnings differences between institutions.
For students prioritizing financial security and high earning potential, Stevens Institute of Technology delivers engineering careers with median earnings exceeding $100,000 — justifying the debt burden through strong employment outcomes. Moore College of Art and Design offers creative career preparation with significantly lower earnings but potentially higher personal fulfillment for artistically-minded students.
The data points to Stevens as the stronger financial investment, but the right choice depends entirely on your career aspirations, risk tolerance, and how you define success. If you're passionate about art and willing to accept financial constraints, Moore provides excellent training.
If you want financial security through technical skills, Stevens is the clear choice.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Stevens Institute, 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.
