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 • Billings, MT & Saint Leo, FL
When students choose between Saint Leo University and Rocky Mountain College, they're comparing two private institutions with nearly identical costs and earnings outcomes. Both charge around $18,500/year and produce median earnings near $48,500.
But beneath these surface similarities lies a meaningful difference: Saint Leo achieves these outcomes while serving students predicted to earn much less based on demographics, suggesting stronger institutional value-add.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$26,000
federal loans
$25,278
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$19,971
borrowed by parents
$14,773
borrowed by parents
Saint Leo is predominantly business-focused, with 34% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Rocky Mountain has a more balanced mix: 16% Business, 10% Education.
Saint Leo's largest programs include Business Administration (406 graduates annually), Criminal Justice (328), and Psychology (253). Rocky Mountain's top programs include Biology (23 graduates), Air Transportation (22), and Sports/Kinesiology (17).
This program composition shapes different career trajectories despite similar overall earnings.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness, Saint Leo delivers comparable outcomes while serving a more challenging student population — suggesting stronger value-add despite identical prices. Rocky Mountain offers a balanced program mix in Montana's outdoor setting, making it the better choice for students drawn to its specific programs or regional location.
The data points to Saint Leo as demonstrating stronger institutional impact, but both schools offer reasonable value. The right choice depends on your program interests, geographic preferences, and whether you value measurable institutional effectiveness over specific regional or program factors.
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.
