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 • Moraga, CA & San Diego, CA
When students choose between Saint Mary's College of California and University of San Diego, they're comparing two similar private Catholic institutions at virtually identical costs. Both charge around $31,200 per year and serve medium-sized student populations in California.
The key differentiator becomes outcomes: USD graduates typically earn more and complete at higher rates. The question is whether USD's selective admissions make it accessible for your profile.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$23,691
federal loans
$22,940
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$58,000
borrowed by parents
$56,559
borrowed by parents
Both schools emphasize business programs, but with different concentrations. Saint Mary's is business-focused with 29% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by 10% in social sciences and 5% in arts.
USD has an even stronger business concentration at 42%, plus 11% social sciences and 9% engineering. USD's largest programs include Finance (231 graduates) and Business Administration (148), while Saint Mary's leads with General Business (174) and Liberal Arts (58).
This business focus at both institutions helps explain the strong career outcomes.
For students who can access both schools, USD delivers notably better career outcomes at the same cost. USD graduates earn $7,710 more at the median and complete degrees at an 82% rate versus Saint Mary's 69%.
Saint Mary's demonstrates strong institutional effectiveness by outperforming expectations while serving more low-income students, making it valuable for students seeking access to quality education. The data points to USD as the stronger choice when both are affordable — but Saint Mary's broader access through its 89% admission rate makes it the better option for students who might not gain USD admission.
Individual results depend on program choice and career path, but USD's combination of higher earnings and completion rates gives it the edge.
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.
