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 • Abilene, TX & Pippa Passes, KY
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Alice Lloyd College, they're comparing two small private colleges that serve similar student populations but deliver vastly different outcomes. Both schools enroll around 60% Pell grant recipients and maintain broad access admission policies.
Yet ACU graduates earn $15,163 more at the median — and achieve this while dramatically exceeding earnings expectations based on their student demographics. The question becomes: what drives these outcome differences?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$19,599
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
—
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Alice Lloyd has a more balanced mix centered on biological sciences: 15% Business, 15% Education, with Biology as the largest single program (18 graduates annually).
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Alice Lloyd's top programs include Biology (18) and Sports/Kinesiology (17).
This program composition helps explain the significant earnings differences between institutions.
For students prioritizing career outcomes and earnings potential, ACU delivers substantially better results despite serving a similar student population. The school not only produces higher median earnings but dramatically exceeds expectations based on student demographics — a sign of strong institutional effectiveness.
Alice Lloyd offers lower debt levels and better monthly payment affordability, making it more suitable for students who prioritize minimal borrowing over earning potential. The data points to ACU as the stronger value for career-focused students who can manage higher debt levels, but Alice Lloyd remains the better choice for debt-averse families prioritizing affordability above all else.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Abilene Christian, 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.
