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 & Columbia, MO
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Stephens College, they're comparing two private institutions with fundamentally different strengths. ACU in Texas focuses on business and health programs while serving 60% Pell recipients.
Stephens in Missouri emphasizes visual and performing arts for a more affluent student body (42% Pell). The data reveals a clear institutional effectiveness gap: ACU delivers outcomes well above demographic predictions while costing significantly less.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$27,900
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Stephens College has an arts emphasis: 32% Visual & Performing Arts, 17% Business.
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Stephens specializes in Drama/Theatre Arts (18), Health Administration (16), and Marketing Operations (13).
These different program concentrations help explain the significant earnings gap between institutions, with ACU's career-focused approach leading to stronger financial outcomes.
For students prioritizing financial outcomes and career preparation, ACU delivers superior value at $10,563/year less cost. The typical ACU graduate earns $12,665 more annually while carrying less debt — a compelling combination.
Stephens offers specialized arts training and may be worth considering for students passionate about theatre, design, or creative fields where traditional earnings metrics don't capture career satisfaction. However, the data points to ACU as the stronger financial choice for most families seeking solid career preparation and manageable debt levels.
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.
