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 & Baltimore, MD
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Loyola University Maryland, they're comparing institutions with fundamentally different missions and student populations. Both are private universities emphasizing business programs, but ACU in Texas serves primarily low-income and first-generation students through open admission, while Loyola Maryland maintains selective admission for predominantly affluent families.
The earnings data tells a complex story of institutional effectiveness versus raw outcomes that reveals which school delivers better value for its mission.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$50,344
borrowed by parents
Both schools are business-focused, with ACU awarding 27% of degrees in business fields and Loyola Maryland at 38%. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting career-focused training.
Loyola Maryland emphasizes Business Administration (298 graduates), Communications (118), and Accounting (58). While both institutions concentrate on business education, ACU offers more health science pathways while Loyola Maryland provides stronger liberal arts and communications programs that typically lead to higher-paying career tracks.
For students prioritizing maximum lifetime earnings and can handle the cost, Loyola Maryland delivers higher absolute outcomes at $82,652 median earnings. However, ACU demonstrates superior institutional effectiveness — taking predominantly low-income students and delivering middle-class outcomes at a fraction of the cost.
The choice hinges on your family's financial capacity and educational philosophy. If you can afford Loyola's premium and value higher absolute earnings, it's the logical choice.
If you're seeking exceptional value and transformational outcomes from a more accessible starting point, ACU punches dramatically above its weight class.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Loyola, 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.
