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 & Thomasville, GA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Thomas University, they're comparing two private institutions with vastly different completion rates. Both serve as Christian universities in small Southern towns, but ACU in Texas graduates 60% of students while Thomas in Georgia graduates just 28%.
The question isn't just about cost — it's about the likelihood of actually earning your degree and the career outcomes that follow.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$21,198
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$10,000
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The university's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Thomas has a more health-oriented focus, though specific percentages are limited by its small size. Thomas's top programs include Business Administration (29 graduates), Criminal Justice (27), and Clinical Laboratory Science (21).
Both schools emphasize professional preparation, but ACU's scale allows for more diverse program offerings.
For students prioritizing degree completion and career outcomes, ACU delivers both higher graduation rates (60% vs 28%) and stronger earnings at a lower net price. Thomas offers a smaller, more intimate environment that may appeal to some students, but the completion risk is substantial.
The data clearly points to ACU as the stronger value — students are more than twice as likely to graduate and earn $6,020 more at the median. The choice comes down to whether Thomas's environment justifies the completion risk and lower earnings potential.
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.
