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 • Los Angeles, CA & Stockton, CA
When students choose between Mount Saint Mary's University and University of the Pacific, they're comparing two fundamentally different approaches to student success. Both are California private colleges with similar price tags, but Mount Saint Mary's achieves remarkable outcomes while serving 55% Pell grant recipients compared to Pacific's 34%.
The earnings premium data reveals a striking difference: Mount Saint Mary's delivers $34,069 beyond demographic predictions while Pacific performs closer to expectations. This represents institutional effectiveness versus traditional selectivity.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,949
federal loans
$19,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$23,250
borrowed by parents
$50,438
borrowed by parents
Mount Saint Mary's emphasizes health science programs, with nursing leading at 204 graduates annually, followed by business administration (45) and clinical psychology (43). The program mix includes 14% business and 10% social sciences.
Pacific has a more business-focused approach, with 16% of graduates in business fields alongside 9% in social sciences and 9% in engineering. Pacific's largest programs include business administration (109 graduates), biology (99), and interdisciplinary studies (83).
These different program concentrations help explain the career trajectory differences between institutions.
For students prioritizing exceptional return on investment and institutional effectiveness, Mount Saint Mary's delivers $34,069 in earnings beyond demographic predictions with lower debt burdens. Pacific offers higher raw earnings ($6,066 more) and better completion rates (68% vs 53%), making it the better choice for students who can manage higher debt and value traditional academic outcomes.
The data points to Mount Saint Mary's as the stronger financial value for students from challenging backgrounds, but Pacific provides more predictable completion and higher ceiling earnings. If maximizing earnings premium while minimizing debt is your priority, Mount Saint Mary's emerges as the clear winner.
If you prioritize graduation likelihood and absolute earnings, Pacific justifies its higher 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.
