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 & Kerrville, TX
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Schreiner University, they're comparing two Texas private colleges with fundamentally different track records of institutional effectiveness. Both serve broad-access student populations with similar debt levels, but ACU achieves dramatically better earnings outcomes while serving more economically disadvantaged students.
The data reveals that ACU graduates earn $18,627 beyond demographic expectations, while Schreiner barely moves the needle at $5,339 above predictions — a gap of over $13,000 in institutional value-add.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$23,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$18,379
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The largest programs include Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education (72 graduates), Finance and Financial Management (71), and Registered Nursing (67).
Schreiner has a different focus, with nursing as its dominant program (87 graduates) followed by Sports and Kinesiology (26) and Biology (23). ACU offers a more diversified program mix including substantial business, education, and arts concentrations, while Schreiner concentrates heavily on health sciences and has more limited program breadth.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and value, ACU delivers superior earnings outcomes at $7,696/year less than Schreiner. ACU demonstrates remarkable ability to elevate student outcomes despite serving a more economically disadvantaged population — exactly what families should look for in a college investment.
Schreiner offers smaller scale (it's a small institution versus ACU's medium size) and may provide more personalized attention, making it potentially better for students who prioritize intimate campus environments and can manage the higher cost. The data points decisively to ACU as the stronger financial value, combining lower costs with better outcomes and higher graduation rates.
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.
