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 & Howell, MI
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Cleary University, they're comparing institutional effectiveness. Both schools produce business professionals, but ACU achieves superior outcomes while serving a more challenging student population.
The data reveals ACU graduates earn $55,736 at the median — $18,627 beyond demographic predictions — while Cleary performs closer to expected outcomes despite serving fewer low-income students. This comparison highlights how institutional support can drive results.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$19,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$13,687
borrowed by parents
Both schools are business-focused, but with different concentrations. ACU is predominantly business-oriented, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, supplemented by strong programs in education (6%) and engineering (2%).
Cleary is overwhelmingly business-concentrated at 91% of all graduates. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Cleary focuses on Business Administration (78 graduates) and Accounting (17). This program diversity at ACU may contribute to its stronger earnings premium.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and completion rates, ACU delivers superior outcomes while serving a more challenging student population at a lower annual cost. Cleary offers more manageable debt levels and payment schedules, making it the better choice for students who want to minimize borrowing and can handle the lower graduation rate risk.
The data points to ACU as demonstrating stronger institutional value — it beats earnings expectations while serving 60% low-income students and costs $8,305/year less. But the right choice depends on your risk tolerance for debt versus completion, program interests, and family financial circumstances.
If you're seeking proven institutional effectiveness despite higher total debt, ACU is the clear pick.
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.
