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 & New Orleans, LA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Dillard University, they're comparing two private institutions that serve similar populations but deliver fundamentally different results. Both schools enroll substantial numbers of Pell grant recipients (ACU: 60%, Dillard: 68%), yet ACU transforms these opportunities into $55,736 median earnings while Dillard produces $39,196.
The data reveals a stark difference in institutional effectiveness — one school consistently beats expectations, the other falls short.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$31,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$23,000
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Dillard has a more health-oriented profile, with top programs in Public Health (35 graduates), Biology (34), and Criminal Justice (23). These program concentrations partially explain the earnings gap, as ACU's business and healthcare mix typically leads to higher-paying career trajectories than Dillard's public health and social service focus.
For students prioritizing economic outcomes, ACU delivers both lower costs and substantially higher earnings — a rare combination that represents exceptional value. Dillard offers access to higher education and serves an important mission for historically underrepresented students, but struggles to translate that access into economic mobility.
The data points decisively to ACU as the stronger financial choice. However, students drawn to Dillard's New Orleans location, HBCU experience, or specific programs like Public Health should weigh these factors against the economic reality.
If career earnings and debt management are priorities, ACU offers the more promising path.
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.
