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 & Miami, FL
When students choose between Barry University and Abilene Christian University, they're comparing two private institutions that serve different regional markets but similar academic missions. Both emphasize business programs and prepare students for professional careers.
However, the completion data reveals a fundamental difference: ACU graduates 60% of students while Barry graduates just 37%. This 23-percentage-point gap transforms what appears to be a straightforward comparison into a story about institutional effectiveness and student success rates.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$26,997
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$14,569
borrowed by parents
Barry is predominantly business-focused, with 31% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. ACU has a more balanced mix with 27% business, 7% arts, and 6% education programs.
Barry's largest programs include Business Administration (189 graduates) and Registered Nursing (101). ACU's top programs are Sports and Kinesiology (72), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Both schools share strong nursing programs, but Barry concentrates more heavily in traditional business while ACU offers broader program diversity including notable strength in finance and exercise science.
For students prioritizing graduation likelihood, ACU delivers 60% completion rates at $10,264/year less than Barry's 37% completion rate. Both schools produce similar earnings for graduates who complete their degrees, but ACU gives students much better odds of actually earning that degree.
Barry offers stronger earnings premium performance and serves a more academically selective student body, making it better for students confident in their ability to persist through completion. The data points to ACU as the stronger overall value — lower cost, higher completion rates, and similar career outcomes for those who graduate.
But success depends on your ability to complete the program regardless of which school you choose.
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.
