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 & Leavenworth, KS
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and University of Saint Mary, they're comparing two private institutions that produce similar career outcomes through very different approaches. Both deliver median earnings in the mid-to-upper $50,000s, but ACU achieves this while serving nearly 60% Pell grant recipients — students predicted to earn significantly less based on their economic backgrounds.
The data reveals a story of institutional effectiveness: ACU transforms challenging demographics into competitive outcomes at a lower price point.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$22,018
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$20,026
borrowed by parents
ACU emphasizes business programs, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields, followed by strong programs in kinesiology, finance, nursing, and business administration. The university's largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Saint Mary concentrates on health programs, with nursing as its flagship — 42 graduates annually — followed by psychology, biology, and business administration. These different program concentrations help explain the career pathways but, notably, both institutions achieve similar earnings outcomes for their typical graduates.
For students prioritizing institutional effectiveness and affordability, ACU demonstrates superior value by transforming challenging student demographics into competitive outcomes at $10,621/year less. Saint Mary offers a smaller campus environment in Kansas with modestly higher earnings potential, making it the better choice for students who value that setting and can manage the higher investment.
The data points to ACU as the stronger institutional performer — achieving similar career outcomes while serving twice as many low-income students at significantly lower cost. The right choice depends on your family's financial capacity, geographic preferences, and whether you prioritize proven effectiveness with diverse student populations over marginally higher 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.
