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 & Franklin, IN
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Franklin College, they're comparing two private institutions that produce remarkably similar career outcomes through very different pathways. Both deliver median earnings around $55,600 ten years out, but ACU achieves this while serving a significantly more economically disadvantaged student population.
The data reveals a story of institutional effectiveness versus traditional liberal arts education—and the question becomes which model better serves your circumstances and goals.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$40,380
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, plus significant programs in kinesiology (72 graduates), finance (71), and nursing (67). Franklin College has a more balanced liberal arts mix: 15% business, 8% education, and 9% social sciences.
Franklin's largest programs include kinesiology (23 graduates), sociology (15), and public relations (15). These different program concentrations reflect distinct institutional missions—ACU's career-focused approach versus Franklin's traditional liberal arts emphasis—yet both produce similar earning outcomes.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU delivers comparable career outcomes at $10,048 less per year while serving a more economically diverse population. Franklin College offers a traditional liberal arts experience in Indiana with similar graduation rates, making it suitable for students who value that specific environment and can manage the higher cost without excessive borrowing.
The data points to ACU as demonstrating stronger value creation—achieving middle-class outcomes for students who statistically weren't predicted to reach them. But the right choice depends on your geographic preferences, program interests, and family financial capacity.
If affordability matters and you're comfortable with ACU's mission-driven environment, the Texas school offers superior financial 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.
