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 & Demorest, GA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Piedmont University, they're comparing two private institutions with fundamentally different track records. Both offer broad access to students, but ACU transforms outcomes while Piedmont struggles to meet expectations.
ACU costs significantly less yet delivers higher earnings — all while serving 60% Pell grant recipients compared to Piedmont's 41%. The question becomes: why pay more for worse results?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$25,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$14,872
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Piedmont emphasizes health programs, though specific concentrations vary.
ACU's largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Piedmont's top program is Nursing (65 graduates), followed by Teacher Education (56) and Psychology (18).
These different program mixes contribute to career trajectory differences, with ACU's business concentration supporting higher median earnings at the 10-year mark.
For students prioritizing both affordability and outcomes, ACU delivers on both fronts despite serving a more economically challenged population. Piedmont offers a smaller campus experience in Georgia and strength in nursing and education programs, making it potentially suitable for students specifically drawn to those fields and the Georgia location.
However, the data overwhelmingly favors ACU as the stronger financial choice — lower annual costs, higher graduate earnings, better completion rates, and remarkable institutional effectiveness in transforming student outcomes. The right choice depends on geography, program preferences, and family circumstances, but ACU represents exceptional value in private higher education.
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.
