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 & Fort Worth, TX
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Texas Wesleyan University, they're weighing two Texas private universities with similar missions but vastly different track records. Both schools focus on business education and serve working-class students, but ACU graduates 60% of its students while Texas Wesleyan graduates just 32%.
The question isn't just about cost or program quality — it's about whether you'll actually finish your degree.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$23,125
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$19,086
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by education (6%) and arts programs (7%). Texas Wesleyan has a similar business concentration at 26%, but with stronger emphasis on education (12%) and social sciences (5%).
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Texas Wesleyan's top programs are more diverse: Interdisciplinary Studies (35 graduates), Psychology (29), and Bilingual Education (25).
For students prioritizing degree completion, ACU delivers both higher graduation rates and stronger earnings beyond expectations, making it worth the extra annual cost. Texas Wesleyan offers a more affordable entry point and serves a higher proportion of first-generation college students (48% versus 24%), but the completion risk undermines its value proposition.
The data points to ACU as the stronger financial investment — but the right choice depends on your academic preparation, support systems, and family circumstances. If you're prepared for college-level work and can manage the higher cost, ACU offers the safer path to degree completion.
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.
