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 & Winfield, KS
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Southwestern College, they're comparing two similar paths with vastly different success rates. Both are private Christian institutions serving business-focused students across Texas and Kansas.
But the completion data reveals a stark reality: ACU graduates 60% of students while Southwestern graduates just 34%. That 27-percentage-point gap represents the real cost difference — not the tuition, but the likelihood of finishing what you start.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$25,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$19,900
borrowed by parents
Both institutions are predominantly business-focused, with ACU producing 27% of graduates in business fields and Southwestern at 40%. ACU's largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), reflecting a balanced mix of professional programs.
Southwestern concentrates heavily on Business Administration (82 graduates) and Criminal Justice (41). The program similarities make the completion rate gap more striking — students aren't failing due to academic mismatch but institutional support differences.
For students prioritizing degree completion, ACU delivers a 60% graduation rate at $14,596/year less than Southwestern — making it both cheaper and more likely to result in a finished degree. Southwestern offers a small college experience in Kansas and may appeal to students specifically drawn to its location or campus culture, but the 34% completion rate creates substantial financial risk for families.
The data points to ACU as both the more affordable option and the safer bet for degree completion. Unless you're specifically committed to Southwestern's Kansas location or campus environment, ACU provides better odds of graduating with manageable debt levels and career-level 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.
