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 & Troy, NY
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Russell Sage College, they're comparing schools that serve similar student populations but deliver vastly different value. Both are private institutions with comparable net prices, yet ACU consistently outperforms earnings expectations while Russell Sage performs closer to predictions.
The data reveals a clear story of institutional effectiveness — one school maximizes student potential, the other delivers standard results.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$22,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$23,291
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).
Russell Sage has a health-focused profile, with Nursing as the dominant program (103 graduates), followed by Health Professions (35) and Business Administration (32). These different program concentrations shape career trajectories but don't fully explain the institutional effectiveness gap between the schools.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU delivers stronger value relative to student demographics at $10,313 less per year. Russell Sage offers slightly higher absolute earnings and better completion rates, making it preferable for students who can manage the higher cost and prioritize the small earnings premium.
The data points to ACU as demonstrating superior institutional effectiveness — transforming students who statistically should earn less into graduates who compete successfully in the job market. The right choice depends on your financial capacity and whether you value proven student transformation over slightly higher raw earnings.
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.
