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 Notre Dame of Maryland University, they're comparing two private institutions with dramatically different value propositions. ACU costs $12,714 per year versus Notre Dame's $24,536, yet both serve similar broad-access populations.
The crucial difference lies in institutional effectiveness: ACU consistently delivers earnings beyond what we'd predict based on student demographics, while Notre Dame performs closer to expectations. This comparison reveals how program focus and institutional mission shape graduate outcomes.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$22,666
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$22,517
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), reflecting ACU's emphasis on practical career preparation.
Notre Dame concentrates heavily on health sciences, with Nursing dominating at 69 graduates annually, followed by Liberal Arts (40) and Biology (12). These program concentrations create different career trajectories: ACU prepares students for business, athletics, and healthcare roles primarily in Texas markets, while Notre Dame feeds graduates into Mid-Atlantic healthcare systems.
For students prioritizing financial value and institutional effectiveness, ACU delivers superior outcomes at $11,822 less per year. The school's ability to generate $18,627 in earnings beyond demographic predictions while serving a predominantly low-income population demonstrates exceptional institutional value.
Notre Dame offers healthcare-focused programs and Mid-Atlantic job market access, making it the better choice for students specifically targeting nursing or healthcare careers who can manage the higher cost. The data points to ACU as the stronger financial value — particularly for business, education, and athletics-focused students.
However, the right choice depends on career goals, geographic preferences, and family financial circumstances. For cost-conscious families seeking strong ROI, 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.
