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 & Muskogee, OK
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Bacone College, they're weighing two business-focused private institutions with similar costs but vastly different outcomes. Both charge around $12,700/year in net price, but the similarities end there.
ACU graduates 60% of its students while Bacone graduates just 2% — one of the most dramatic completion gaps in higher education. The question isn't about cost; it's about whether you'll actually earn a degree.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$26,187
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$12,000
borrowed by parents
Both institutions emphasize business programs: ACU with 27% of graduates earning business degrees, Bacone with 39%. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting a more diverse program mix.
Bacone's top programs include Business Administration (7 graduates) and Teacher Education (5), but the small graduate numbers reflect the institution's severe completion challenges. ACU serves 1,400+ students annually while Bacone graduates fewer than 20 students per year across all programs.
For any student prioritizing degree completion and career outcomes, ACU is the clear choice despite similar costs. With 60% graduation rates and $55,736 median earnings, ACU delivers what students expect from college.
Bacone's 2% graduation rate makes it unsuitable for virtually all students — paying $12,197/year for a 98% chance of dropping out without a degree is not a viable educational investment. The data overwhelmingly favors ACU as the only realistic option.
Unless a student has extraordinarily specific circumstances that make Bacone appropriate, ACU represents the only path likely to result in degree completion and career advancement.
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.
