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 & Hawkins, TX
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Jarvis Christian University, they're comparing two private Christian institutions in Texas with vastly different track records. Both serve similar student populations and share religious missions, but ACU graduates 60% of its students while Jarvis graduates just 15%.
This completion risk fundamentally changes the value proposition, even though Jarvis costs less upfront. The question becomes: what's the value of lower costs if most students don't finish their degrees?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$10,065
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields alongside strong programs in nursing, kinesiology, and finance. The largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Jarvis has a more limited program mix dominated by Parks & Recreation, with 29% in business programs. Jarvis's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (22 graduates) and Business Administration (20).
ACU's broader program diversity and larger scale provide more academic options for students who complete their degrees.
For students prioritizing degree completion and career outcomes, ACU delivers a 60% graduation rate and median earnings of $55,736 — justifying its higher cost through actual results. Jarvis offers lower upfront costs but graduates only 15% of students, leaving most with debt and no degree to show for it.
The data strongly favors ACU as the safer investment, though the choice depends on your confidence in completing your degree and managing higher costs. If you're committed to finishing college and can handle ACU's payment burden, it's the clear choice.
Only consider Jarvis if you have strong reasons to believe you'll be among the 15% who graduate.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Abilene Christian, 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.
