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 & Memphis, TN
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Rhodes College, they're comparing two private institutions with dramatically different approaches to student success. ACU operates as broad access institution in West Texas, accepting all qualified students and serving 60% Pell grant recipients.
Rhodes functions as a selective liberal arts college in Memphis, accepting just 50% of applicants and serving 15% low-income students. Yet ACU achieves something remarkable: graduates who significantly outperform earnings expectations despite entering with fewer advantages.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$21,761
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$52,509
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by education (6%) and arts (7%). The largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Rhodes has a social science emphasis, with 22% earning degrees in social sciences and 17% in business. Rhodes' top programs include Business Administration (83 graduates), Biology (46), and International Relations (30).
This liberal arts concentration shapes Rhodes' graduate school pipeline and career outcomes.
For families prioritizing institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU delivers exceptional value — graduates who significantly outperform earnings predictions at half Rhodes' cost. Rhodes offers higher raw earnings and an 82% completion rate, making it the stronger choice for families who can manage the financial commitment and value the liberal arts environment.
However, the data points to ACU as demonstrating superior institutional effectiveness: serving predominantly first-generation and low-income students while achieving earnings outcomes $18,627 beyond predictions. The right choice depends on your family's financial capacity, completion confidence, and whether you value raw earnings outcomes versus institutional value-add for diverse populations.
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.
