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 & Newport, RI
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Salve Regina University, they're comparing schools with fundamentally different missions and price points. ACU operates with open admission in Abilene, Texas, serving 60% Pell grant recipients at a net price of $12,714 per year.
Salve Regina, selective and situated in coastal Newport, Rhode Island, serves just 15% low-income students at $35,682 annually. The question isn't which is better — it's which path aligns with your circumstances and career goals.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$41,621
borrowed by parents
Both schools are predominantly business-focused, with ACU awarding 27% of degrees in business fields and Salve Regina at 21%. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting a mix of professional preparation and health sciences.
Salve Regina emphasizes Nursing (76 graduates), Criminal Justice (59), and Education (41), showing strength in service-oriented careers. These program concentrations influence career trajectories, with ACU leaning toward business and athletics while Salve Regina focuses on healthcare and public service.
For students prioritizing affordability and value relative to demographic expectations, ACU delivers exceptional outcomes at $22,968 less per year. The school excels at serving low-income students and generating earnings beyond predictions — a sign of strong institutional effectiveness.
Salve Regina offers higher absolute earning potential and graduation rates, making it the better choice for families who can manage the premium cost and want maximum career earnings. The data points to different schools for different circumstances: ACU for financial access and relative value, Salve Regina for earning potential and completion rates.
Your family's financial capacity and career priorities should guide this decision, not a simple 'better' or 'worse' comparison.
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.
