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 & Newburgh, NY
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Mount Saint Mary College, they're comparing two private institutions with dramatically different approaches to student success. Both serve broad-access student populations, but ACU in Texas achieves remarkable outcomes for a predominantly low-income student body, while Mount Saint Mary in New York serves a more affluent population with predictable results.
The question becomes: which type of institutional effectiveness matters more to your family's circumstances and goals?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$26,007
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$46,295
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting a practical career preparation approach.
Mount Saint Mary has a health-focused mission, dominated by Nursing with 160 graduates annually, followed by Business Administration (51) and Psychology (43). This healthcare concentration helps explain the higher median earnings, as nursing typically commands premium wages compared to business and liberal arts fields.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU delivers remarkable outcomes for its predominantly low-income student population at $11,022/year less than Mount Saint Mary. Mount Saint Mary offers higher absolute earnings and stronger completion rates, making it the better choice for families who can manage the higher investment and prioritize raw earning power.
The data points to ACU as demonstrating stronger value relative to student demographics, but the right choice depends on your family's financial capacity, program interests, and whether you value serving alongside a diverse, predominantly low-income student body. If cost is a primary concern and you're drawn to business or practical career preparation, ACU represents exceptional value.
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.
