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 • Aliso Viejo, CA & New Orleans, LA
When students choose between University of Holy Cross and Soka University of America, they're comparing vastly different completion outcomes. Both are small private colleges, but Soka graduates 87% of students while Holy Cross graduates just 36% — a 51 percentage point gap.
This completion risk fundamentally changes the value proposition, even though Holy Cross costs $4,666 less per year. The question becomes: what's the real cost of a degree you might not finish?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$15,650
federal loans
$26,995
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$13,228
borrowed by parents
$12,000
borrowed by parents
Holy Cross is health-focused, with nursing as its largest program (34 graduates annually) alongside biology and allied health. The program mix includes 13% business and 10% education.
Soka takes a completely different approach, concentrating almost exclusively on liberal arts and sciences with 93 graduates in general studies and humanities. These represent fundamentally different career preparation paths — Holy Cross trains healthcare professionals while Soka provides broad-based liberal education.
For students who can handle the academic demands and want healthcare careers, Holy Cross offers specialized training at a lower cost. However, the 36% graduation rate represents substantial risk — most students invest time and money without earning a degree.
Soka delivers reliable degree completion (87% rate) and higher earnings outcomes, making it the stronger choice for students prioritizing educational success. The data points to Soka as the safer investment, but the right choice depends on career goals, academic readiness, and risk tolerance.
If you're academically prepared and committed to healthcare, Holy Cross could work. For most families, Soka's completion advantage outweighs the cost difference.
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.
