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 & Cedar Rapids, IA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Coe College, they're comparing two private institutions with similar missions but dramatically different value delivery. Both produce graduates earning around $56,000-$57,000 at the median.
But ACU achieves this while serving 60% Pell grant recipients compared to Coe's 36% — and still beats earnings expectations by nearly $19,000. The data reveals a story of institutional effectiveness versus demographic advantage.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$30,674
borrowed by parents
Both schools are predominantly business-focused, with ACU graduating 27% of students in business fields and Coe graduating 18%. ACU's largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting a practical career orientation.
Coe's top programs include Business Administration (59 graduates), Biology (46), and Psychology (38), showing a more liberal arts approach within its business focus. These program mixes shape different pathways but lead to comparable median earnings.
For students prioritizing financial value and institutional effectiveness, ACU delivers comparable earnings at $6,441/year less while dramatically outperforming demographic predictions. Coe offers a small liberal arts college experience in Iowa and produces slightly higher median earnings, making it appealing for students who value that environment and can manage the higher cost without excessive borrowing.
The data points to ACU as the stronger financial value — it serves a more challenging student population, charges significantly less, and still delivers earnings that exceed all expectations. Both schools offer quality private education, but ACU provides better bang for the buck.
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.
