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 • Fairfield, CT & Scranton, PA
When students choose between Sacred Heart University and University of Scranton, they're comparing two similar Catholic institutions that produce remarkably similar career outcomes at very different costs. Both schools emphasize business and nursing programs, serve mid-Atlantic students, and feed graduates into regional job markets.
The key difference? Scranton delivers the same results for $14,900 less per year — making this comparison primarily about financial value rather than academic outcomes.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,000
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$45,486
borrowed by parents
$41,370
borrowed by parents
Sacred Heart is predominantly business-focused, with 32% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Scranton has a more balanced mix at 23% business concentration.
Sacred Heart's largest programs include Nursing (203 graduates), Allied Health (190), and Marketing (131). Scranton's strengths span Nursing (81), Sports/Kinesiology (71), and Accounting (63).
Both schools demonstrate particular strength in healthcare-related fields, which helps explain their similar earnings outcomes despite different program emphases.
For students prioritizing financial value, Scranton delivers identical career outcomes at $14,900/year less than Sacred Heart. Both schools offer strong Catholic education, business and nursing programs, and regional career networks.
Sacred Heart demonstrates superior institutional effectiveness in helping students exceed earnings predictions, but this statistical outperformance doesn't translate to higher actual earnings for graduates. Scranton also graduates a higher percentage of students, making it the safer financial bet.
The data points to Scranton as the stronger value choice, though Sacred Heart may appeal to students who value its Connecticut location and are comfortable with the premium cost for comparable outcomes.
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.
