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 • Houston, TX & San Antonio, TX
When students choose between University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio and University of St Thomas in Houston, they're comparing two private Catholic universities with similar missions but different results. Both schools cost roughly the same and serve comparable student populations.
Yet the data reveals a meaningful difference in institutional effectiveness: UIW delivers substantially higher earnings beyond what we'd predict based on student demographics, suggesting stronger career preparation despite serving a more challenging population.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$19,928
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$15,350
borrowed by parents
$25,775
borrowed by parents
UIW is predominantly business-focused, with 36% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. UST has a more balanced mix: 21% Business, 12% Social Sciences.
UIW's largest programs include Business Administration (206 graduates annually) and Nursing (91 graduates). UST's top programs include Liberal Arts and Sciences (77 graduates) and Nursing (58 graduates).
This program composition helps explain some career trajectory differences, though both schools emphasize professional preparation.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and earnings beyond expectations, UIW demonstrates stronger value creation despite higher family debt burden. UST offers better affordability, higher completion rates, and a more manageable payment structure — making it the better choice for students who need to minimize debt risk.
The data suggests both universities serve their missions well, but UST provides the stronger overall financial value with its combination of lower debt burden and comparable career outcomes. If affordability and completion are priorities, UST is the clearer choice.
If you're willing to take on additional debt for potentially stronger career preparation, UIW offers that path.
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.
