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 • Stockton, CA & Winston-Salem, NC
When students choose between University of the Pacific and Wake Forest University, they're comparing two institutions with fundamentally different missions that achieve remarkably similar results. Pacific serves as a broad-access gateway to professional careers in California, while Wake Forest operates as a highly selective liberal arts university in North Carolina.
Despite their different approaches to admissions and student demographics, both deliver median earnings around $78,000 ten years after enrollment.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$19,500
federal loans
$21,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$50,438
borrowed by parents
$30,000
borrowed by parents
Pacific is predominantly business-focused, with 16% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by 9% each in social sciences and engineering. Top programs include Business Administration (109 graduates), Biology (99), and Interdisciplinary Studies (83).
Wake Forest emphasizes social sciences, with 25% of graduates in that field and 20% in business. Their largest programs include Political Science (146 graduates), Economics (139), and Communication (113).
These different academic concentrations reflect each school's distinct institutional character but lead to similar career outcomes.
For students prioritizing accessibility and strong economic mobility, Pacific delivers identical career outcomes while serving a much broader population. Wake Forest offers superior completion rates, academic prestige, and stronger alumni networks — making it the better choice for students who can gain admission and manage the financial complexity.
The data reveals both schools as effective at their respective missions: Pacific as an access-oriented institution that transforms diverse students into high earners, Wake Forest as a selective institution that maintains strong outcomes. If you can get into both, the choice depends on whether you value broad accessibility or selective excellence more highly.
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.
