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 & Weston, MA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Regis College, they're comparing institutions with dramatically different approaches to student success. Both are private colleges, but ACU in Texas costs significantly less while achieving remarkable results: graduates earn $18,627 beyond what demographic models predict.
Regis in Massachusetts commands premium pricing but delivers outcomes closer to expectations. The question becomes whether institutional effectiveness or geographic prestige matters more for your investment.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$25,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$32,238
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 orientation.
Regis takes a health-focused approach, with Nursing dominating at 232 graduates annually, followed by Allied Health (25) and Biology (22). This program composition helps explain career trajectories: ACU prepares students for diverse business careers, while Regis specializes in healthcare pathways with higher immediate earning potential.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU delivers superior value through remarkable earnings outcomes at $15,632/year less cost. The university's ability to help students exceed demographic predictions by nearly $19,000 demonstrates exceptional institutional strength.
Regis offers healthcare specialization and New England location advantages, making it better for students committed to healthcare careers who can manage higher costs. The data strongly favors ACU for value-conscious families seeking evidence-based institutional effectiveness.
If cost matters and you want a school that demonstrably helps students succeed beyond expectations, ACU is the clear choice.
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.
