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 & Allentown, PA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Cedar Crest College, they're comparing two private institutions that produce similar career outcomes but serve fundamentally different student populations. Both deliver median earnings around $56,000-$59,000 ten years out, yet ACU achieves this while enrolling significantly more low-income students and charging substantially less.
The data reveals a story of institutional effectiveness: one school consistently outperforms demographic predictions while the other performs closer to expectations.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$28,620
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Cedar Crest has a health-focused mission, though specific program percentages aren't available in current data.
ACU's largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting a practical career orientation. Cedar Crest's top program is Nursing (86 graduates), followed by Business Administration (40) and Psychology (28), suggesting a more concentrated healthcare and helping professions focus.
For students prioritizing financial value and institutional effectiveness, ACU delivers comparable career outcomes at $10,195 less per year while serving a more challenging student population. Cedar Crest offers slightly higher median earnings and may provide advantages for students specifically interested in healthcare programs, making it potentially worthwhile for those who can afford the premium and value its particular strengths.
The data points to ACU as the stronger financial value — it costs dramatically less, achieves similar outcomes, and demonstrates superior effectiveness in moving students up the economic ladder. Unless Cedar Crest offers a specific program or environment you can't find elsewhere, ACU is the smarter financial choice.
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.
