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 & Augusta, GA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Paine College, they're weighing two very different levels of completion risk. Both are private nonprofit institutions emphasizing business programs, but ACU in Texas graduates 60% of students while Paine College in Georgia graduates just 22%.
The earnings data shows ACU graduates typically earning $55,736 versus Paine's $33,338, but for many Paine students, the real question is whether they'll graduate at all.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
—
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$7,581
borrowed by parents
Both schools focus on business programs — ACU with 27% of graduates in business fields, Paine with 32%. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting a more diverse program portfolio.
Paine's top program is Business Administration with just 8 graduates annually, followed by Sociology and Psychology with 5 each. The small graduating class sizes at Paine reflect the completion challenges, with many students starting but not finishing their degrees.
For students prioritizing degree completion and career outcomes, ACU delivers significantly better results despite higher debt levels. The 60% graduation rate versus Paine's 22% represents the most critical difference — ACU students are nearly three times more likely to earn their degrees.
While Paine's lower debt burden looks attractive on paper, it primarily reflects students leaving before completion rather than genuine affordability advantages. The data strongly favors ACU for students committed to completing their bachelor's degrees, though families should carefully consider the higher debt burden and ensure they can manage the financial commitment through graduation.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Abilene Christian, 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.
