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 & Bloomfield, NJ
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Bloomfield College, they're weighing two private institutions with fundamentally different track records on student success. Both serve similar populations — around 60-69% Pell grant recipients — but ACU in Texas graduates 60% of students while Bloomfield in New Jersey graduates just 31%.
This isn't a subtle difference in academic quality; it's a dramatic gap in the likelihood of degree completion. The data reveals that choosing the wrong school could mean never finishing college at all.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$26,746
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$17,963
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The largest programs include Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Bloomfield has a more balanced mix across social sciences (18%), arts (18%), and business (15%). Bloomfield's top programs include Sociology (55 graduates), Visual and Performing Arts (53), and Nursing (48).
These different program concentrations help explain career trajectory differences, with ACU's business and nursing focus supporting higher post-graduation earnings.
For students prioritizing degree completion and career outcomes, ACU delivers superior results at lower cost — 60% graduation rates versus 31%, plus $9,834 higher median earnings for completers. Bloomfield offers access to the New York metro area job market and strength in creative fields, making it potentially valuable for students confident in their ability to persist and graduate.
The data points to ACU as the stronger choice for most students, given the combination of better completion rates, lower costs, and higher earnings. But the right choice depends on your academic preparation, career goals, and confidence in degree completion.
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.
