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 & Saint Louis, MO
When students choose between Washington University In St Louis and Saint Joseph's University, they're comparing two private institutions that deliver similar career outcomes through very different paths. Washington University operates as a highly selective research university accepting just 12% of applicants, while Saint Joseph's provides broad access with an 86% acceptance rate.
Despite these fundamental differences in selectivity and student demographics, both schools produce graduates earning around $86,000 at the median ten years after enrollment.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$25,500
federal loans
$17,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$42,436
borrowed by parents
$24,585
borrowed by parents
Both universities are business-focused, but with different concentrations. Washington University has a balanced program mix: 18% Business, 14% Social Sciences, 14% Engineering.
The largest programs include Computer Science (180 graduates), Finance (160), and Research Psychology (148). Saint Joseph's is heavily business-concentrated with 58% of graduates in business fields, followed by 6% each in Social Sciences and Education.
Top programs include Specialized Marketing Operations (159 graduates), Finance (153), and Marketing (125). This business concentration at Saint Joseph's helps explain comparable earnings despite different selectivity levels.
For students prioritizing financial value, Washington University delivers identical career outcomes at $13,370/year less than Saint Joseph's. The earnings data shows no premium for Saint Joseph's higher cost — both schools produce graduates earning around $86,000 at the median.
Saint Joseph's offers broader admissions access and heavy business program concentration, making it a viable option for students who can't gain admission to Washington University's highly selective programs. The data points to Washington University as the stronger financial value, but Saint Joseph's serves students with different academic profiles and admission requirements.
If you can gain admission to Washington University, the financial advantage is substantial — but Saint Joseph's remains a solid choice for business-focused students seeking comparable career 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.
