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 & Omaha, NE
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and College Of Saint Mary, they're comparing two private institutions that produce remarkably similar earnings outcomes through very different approaches. ACU operates with broad access admission in Texas, serving 60% Pell grant recipients.
Saint Mary maintains selective admission in Nebraska, serving 37% low-income students. The earnings data reveals which institution adds more value: ACU graduates earn what we'd expect from a much more affluent student body.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$24,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$21,389
borrowed by parents
ACU emphasizes business programs, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Saint Mary concentrates on health professions, with Nursing leading at 57 graduates annually, followed by Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (43). These different program mixes reflect each institution's mission — ACU preparing students for diverse business and professional careers, Saint Mary focusing on healthcare pathways.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and value-added outcomes, ACU delivers superior results while serving a more economically challenged population. The school costs $2,272/year less and produces graduates who substantially outperform demographic predictions.
Saint Mary offers healthcare-focused programs in a more selective environment, making it the better choice for students specifically drawn to nursing or rehabilitation professions who prefer smaller, more selective settings. The data points to ACU as demonstrating stronger institutional impact — but the right choice depends on your career goals, program interests, and preferences for campus selectivity.
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.
