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 & Rockford, IL
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Rockford University, they're comparing two private colleges with a critical difference: completion rates. Both institutions serve similar student populations and charge comparable effective prices, but ACU graduates 60% of its students while Rockford graduates just 38%.
This completion gap transforms every other comparison — from cost to career outcomes — because the statistics only reflect students who actually finish their degrees.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$22,274
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$22,982
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Rockford takes a different approach, concentrating heavily on health programs, particularly nursing.
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Rockford's largest program is Nursing (57 graduates), followed by Business Administration (46).
Both schools offer business and nursing pathways, but ACU provides broader program diversity across sports management and financial services.
For students prioritizing degree completion, ACU delivers a 60% graduation rate that justifies its cost structure, while Rockford's 38% rate creates substantial non-completion risk. ACU offers stronger business and sports programs with better institutional effectiveness, making it the better choice for students who can manage the higher upfront cost.
Rockford serves students seeking nursing programs at a lower net price, but families must weigh this against significant completion risk. The data points to ACU as the safer investment — the 22-point completion advantage outweighs other considerations for most families.
Choose based on your confidence in finishing versus immediate affordability concerns.
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.
