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 & Brownwood, TX
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Howard Payne University, they're comparing two Texas private Christian colleges with dramatically different institutional effectiveness. Both schools share similar missions and regional footprints, but the data reveals a stark performance gap.
ACU consistently beats earnings expectations while serving a more challenging student population, whereas Howard Payne falls short of predicted outcomes. The question becomes: which institution better serves its students' long-term interests?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$26,793
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$21,127
borrowed by parents
Both schools are business-focused institutions, with ACU concentrating 27% of graduates in business fields and Howard Payne at 21%. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), while Howard Payne's top programs are Business Administration (27), Criminology (18), and Teacher Education (14).
ACU offers more diverse programming with significant nursing and finance concentrations, while Howard Payne emphasizes education and criminal justice. These program differences help explain the earnings gap between institutions.
For students prioritizing long-term outcomes and institutional effectiveness, ACU delivers superior results at a lower net price. The $18,627 earnings premium beyond expectations, combined with higher graduation rates and better affordability, makes ACU the clear winner.
Howard Payne offers a smaller campus experience in Brownwood, which may appeal to students seeking that environment. However, the data points overwhelmingly to ACU as providing better value — higher earnings, lower costs, and stronger institutional support for student success.
The 29-percentage-point graduation rate gap alone makes this comparison decisive for most families.
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.
