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 • Raleigh, NC & Buffalo, NY
When students choose between Villa Maria College in Buffalo and Shaw University in Raleigh, they're comparing two small private colleges with similar missions but vastly different track records. Both serve predominantly low-income populations at nearly identical net prices around $14,000 per year.
But Villa Maria graduates 31% of its students while Shaw graduates just 20% — an 11-percentage-point gap that transforms the entire value proposition. The question isn't just about career outcomes for graduates, but whether you'll graduate at all.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$32,500
federal loans
$21,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$17,479
borrowed by parents
$9,975
borrowed by parents
Villa Maria is predominantly Visual & Performing Arts-focused, with 47% of graduates earning degrees in arts fields and another 10% in business. The largest programs include Graphic Communications (17 graduates annually) and Design and Applied Arts (12).
Shaw University has a more balanced mix with business leadership: 16% Business, plus significant programs in Social Work (20 graduates), Sports/Kinesiology (16), and Criminal Justice (15). These program concentrations explain part of the earnings difference between institutions, with arts careers typically offering different financial trajectories than business and social services.
For students weighing these options, Villa Maria delivers meaningfully better outcomes across every dimension — higher completion rates, lower debt burdens, and stronger post-graduation earnings for those who finish. Shaw University offers programs in business and social services that may appeal to specific career interests, but the combination of low completion rates and high debt levels creates substantial financial risk.
The data points to Villa Maria as the stronger choice, though both institutions present completion challenges that prospective students must carefully consider. If you're committed to either path, Villa Maria offers significantly better odds of degree completion and financial success.
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.
