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 & Wichita, KS
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Newman University, they're comparing institutions with fundamentally different missions and student populations. ACU serves a broad-access population in Texas with open admissions, while Newman operates as a selective private college in Kansas.
Despite serving vastly different demographics, both produce similar career outcomes—but ACU dramatically outperforms expectations while Newman performs below them.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$20,801
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$14,650
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Newman emphasizes education programs, with 23% of graduates becoming teachers.
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Newman's top programs center on Teacher Education (52 graduates), Nursing (41), and Biology (24).
These different program concentrations reflect each institution's mission: ACU preparing business and healthcare professionals, Newman training educators and service professionals.
For students prioritizing proven institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU delivers exceptional results while serving a diverse, accessible student population. Newman offers a more selective environment with potentially easier repayment terms, making it suitable for students seeking a traditional private college experience.
The data strongly favors ACU—it costs less, achieves better completion rates, and demonstrates remarkable effectiveness in elevating student outcomes. However, the right choice depends on your program interests, comfort with debt levels, and preference for institutional culture and selectivity.
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.
