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 & Canton, OH
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences, they're comparing fundamentally different educational approaches. ACU offers a comprehensive university experience in Texas with dozens of majors across business, health sciences, and liberal arts.
Aultman is a specialized nursing college in Ohio focused exclusively on healthcare careers. The question isn't which is 'better' — it's whether you want broad educational options or focused nursing preparation.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$20,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$37,277
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), Registered Nursing (67), Business Administration (59), and Accounting (50).
Aultman is exclusively health-focused, with nursing as virtually its only program — graduating just 16 registered nurses annually. This represents the core difference: ACU provides broad educational opportunities across multiple fields, while Aultman offers intensive, specialized nursing training for a small cohort.
For students committed to nursing careers, Aultman delivers specialized training with strong earning potential despite the higher cost and concerning affordability rating. ACU offers broader educational opportunities, significantly lower costs, and stronger value relative to student demographics — making it the better choice for students wanting diverse academic options or cost-conscious families.
The data doesn't point to a clear financial winner because these schools serve different purposes. Choose Aultman if you're certain about nursing; choose ACU for comprehensive education at lower cost with career flexibility.
Your intended major and financial capacity should drive this decision.
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.
