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 & Yankton, SD
When students choose between Abilene Christian University in Texas and Mount Marty University in South Dakota, they're comparing two private Christian institutions with vastly different approaches to access and outcomes. ACU operates with broad access admission (accepting virtually all applicants) while serving 60% Pell grant recipients.
Mount Marty maintains selective admission (48% acceptance rate) while serving primarily middle and upper-income families. The data reveals that ACU not only costs significantly less but produces stronger career outcomes despite — or perhaps because of — its commitment to serving low-income students.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$26,396
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$22,217
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by sports and kinesiology programs. The largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Mount Marty emphasizes education, with 27% of graduates in education fields and 19% in business. Their largest programs include Teacher Education (19 graduates), Business Administration (18), and Nursing (13).
This program mix difference helps explain career trajectory variations, with ACU's business concentration aligning with higher-earning career paths compared to Mount Marty's education focus.
For students prioritizing both affordability and career outcomes, ACU delivers superior value across multiple dimensions: $10,581 lower annual costs, $7,557 higher median earnings, and exceptional institutional effectiveness serving low-income students. Mount Marty offers a small-college experience in South Dakota with strength in education programs, making it the better choice for students specifically drawn to teaching careers or preferring a highly selective environment.
The data points to ACU as the stronger financial choice, but the right decision depends on your career goals, geographic preferences, and family circumstances. If cost and earnings both matter, 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.
