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 & Biddeford, ME
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and University of New England, they're comparing two schools with fundamentally different missions that somehow produce identical career outcomes. Both graduate students earning around $55,800 at the median 10 years out.
But ACU achieves this while serving predominantly low-income students in Abilene, Texas, while UNE serves a more affluent population in coastal Maine. The data reveals remarkable institutional effectiveness at ACU — and a significant cost advantage.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$25,250
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$29,675
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. UNE concentrates on health sciences, led by nursing programs.
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). UNE's top programs include Nursing (97 graduates), Health Sciences (86), and Biology (75).
These different program concentrations lead to similar career outcomes, suggesting both institutions effectively prepare students for their chosen fields despite serving different regional markets.
For students prioritizing financial value and institutional effectiveness, ACU delivers identical career outcomes at $24,395/year less than UNE while serving a more challenging student population. UNE offers coastal New England location, health science programs, and a different regional network — making it the better choice for students drawn to Maine and specific health programs who can manage the higher cost.
The data strongly favors ACU as the superior financial value, but the right choice depends on your geographic preferences, program interests, and family circumstances. If cost matters and you're open to Texas, ACU is the clear winner.
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.
