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 & Lodi, NJ
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Felician University, they're comparing two private institutions that deliver similar career outcomes at vastly different costs. Both serve similar student populations and produce comparable earnings, but ACU costs over $28,000 less per year.
The question becomes: is there any justification for Felician's premium price when the career outcomes are essentially identical? Geography aside, this comparison reveals one of higher education's starkest value arbitrage opportunities.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$25,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$21,650
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by notable programs in Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Felician takes a different approach, with Health programs leading the way — Nursing alone produces 112 graduates annually, making it the dominant program.
Business Administration follows with 56 graduates. While their program mixes differ, both institutions prepare students for professional careers, and the earnings data shows these different pathways produce remarkably similar financial outcomes.
For students prioritizing financial value, ACU delivers virtually identical career outcomes at $28,601/year less than Felician — one of the largest cost gaps in our database without corresponding earnings differences. Felician offers proximity to New York metropolitan job markets and strength in health sciences, making it potentially valuable for students specifically targeting Northeast healthcare careers who can afford the premium.
However, the data overwhelmingly points to ACU as the superior financial choice. Both institutions serve similar student populations and produce comparable graduates, but ACU does so at a fraction of the cost.
Unless Northeast geography or specific program access is critical, ACU represents exceptional educational value.
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.
