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 & Cleveland, TN
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Lee University, they're comparing two private Christian institutions with fundamentally different economic outcomes. Both schools maintain similar graduation rates around 60% and serve medium-sized student bodies.
But ACU delivers earnings that beat demographic predictions by $18,627, while Lee falls $15,471 short of expectations. The data reveals ACU as the stronger financial choice — despite serving a more economically disadvantaged student population.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$25,750
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$24,000
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Lee has a different mission: theology-focused, with Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries leading (84 graduates), followed by Business Administration (77) and Psychology (69). These program concentrations help explain the earnings differences — ACU's business and health focus typically leads to higher-paying career paths than Lee's emphasis on ministry and counseling fields.
For students prioritizing financial outcomes, ACU delivers superior value on every measure: lower annual cost, higher graduate earnings, and stronger institutional effectiveness in serving low-income students. Lee offers specialized ministry preparation and may appeal to students called to lower-paying service fields — making it the better choice for those prioritizing mission over financial return.
The data points to ACU as the stronger financial investment, but the right choice depends on your career goals, calling, and family circumstances. If economic outcomes matter most, ACU is the clear winner.
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.
