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 & Hoboken, NJ
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Stevens Institute of Technology, they're comparing two fundamentally different paths. ACU in Abilene, Texas offers broad access education with business and health program strengths.
Stevens in Hoboken, New Jersey is an engineering powerhouse serving New York metro careers. The earnings gap is dramatic — but so is the investment required.
The question becomes: which career trajectory matches your goals and financial capacity?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$27,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$53,192
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Stevens has a more specialized engineering concentration: 57% engineering, 12% business.
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Stevens' top programs are Mechanical Engineering (141), Business Administration (89), and Computer Engineering (76).
This program composition explains the dramatic earnings differences — engineering careers typically command higher starting salaries than business or health fields.
For students pursuing engineering careers who can manage higher costs, Stevens delivers substantially higher earning potential at $108,772 versus ACU's $55,736. ACU offers strong value for business and health careers at significantly lower cost, making it the better choice for students prioritizing affordability or serving broader career goals.
The data points to Stevens as the stronger investment for engineering-focused students, but the right choice depends entirely on your program interests, financial circumstances, and career aspirations. If engineering is your path and you can handle the debt, Stevens pays off.
Otherwise, ACU provides solid outcomes at a fraction of the cost.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Stevens Institute, 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.
