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 & Chicago, IL
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and DePaul University, they're comparing two fundamentally different approaches to business education. ACU serves 60% Pell grant recipients in Abilene, Texas, while DePaul enrolls 31% Pell students in downtown Chicago.
Both emphasize business programs, but ACU dramatically outperforms demographic predictions while DePaul performs closer to expectations. The question isn't which produces higher raw earnings — it's which delivers better value given the student populations they serve and the investment required.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$23,168
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$41,563
borrowed by parents
Both schools are predominantly business-focused: ACU with 27% of graduates earning business degrees, DePaul with 32%. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting a blend of professional preparation.
DePaul concentrates more heavily on traditional business fields: Finance (283 graduates), Accounting (245), and Psychology (201). This program composition helps explain the different career trajectories — ACU prepares students for diverse regional careers while DePaul feeds Chicago's finance and corporate sectors.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU delivers remarkable value — turning students predicted to earn less into graduates who significantly exceed expectations, all at $16,427/year less than DePaul. DePaul offers higher absolute earnings and better completion rates, making it the stronger choice for students who can manage the higher investment and want access to Chicago's job market.
The data points to ACU as the more impressive institutional performer, but the right choice depends on your family's financial capacity, geographic preferences, and whether you value overcoming predictions versus maximizing raw earnings outcomes.
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.
