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 & Duluth, MN
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and The College of Saint Scholastica, they're comparing two schools that achieve similar graduation outcomes while serving dramatically different student populations. ACU, based in Texas, serves 60% Pell grant recipients with an open admissions policy.
Saint Scholastica in Minnesota serves just 23% low-income students. The question becomes: which institution delivers stronger results relative to the students they serve?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$20,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$16,000
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by education (6%) and arts (7%). The largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Saint Scholastica has a health-focused mission, with Nursing as its dominant program producing 312 graduates annually, followed by Social Work (71) and Psychology (59). These different program concentrations shape career trajectories and explain some of the earnings patterns between institutions.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness relative to student demographics, ACU demonstrates stronger performance by delivering solid outcomes for a predominantly low-income student body. Saint Scholastica offers higher absolute earnings and better debt management, making it the better choice for families who can afford the higher investment and want health-focused programs.
The data points to ACU as demonstrating stronger institutional value-added—but Saint Scholastica may be worth the premium for students seeking nursing or social work careers with families comfortable managing higher educational costs. Both schools serve their respective missions effectively.
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.
