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 & Aurora, NY
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Wells College, they're comparing two private institutions with fundamentally different track records. Both serve similar student populations, but ACU consistently delivers earnings that exceed what we'd predict based on student demographics by $18,627, while Wells College graduates earn slightly below expectations.
The story isn't just about raw earnings — it's about institutional effectiveness and value creation for students.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$26,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$34,883
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Wells College emphasizes psychology and liberal arts, with psychology representing the largest program (16 graduates annually).
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67). Wells focuses on smaller cohorts: Psychology (16), Biology (14), and Business Administration (14).
These program concentrations help explain the earnings trajectories, with ACU's business and professional programs typically leading to higher-paying career paths.
For students prioritizing both affordability and institutional effectiveness, ACU delivers higher earnings at $10,207/year less cost than Wells College. ACU's ability to help students exceed earnings predictions by nearly $19,000 demonstrates genuine value creation, while Wells struggles to deliver outcomes matching student investment.
Wells offers a small liberal arts experience in New York, which may appeal to students seeking that specific environment. However, the data points strongly to ACU as the superior financial choice — lower cost, higher earnings, better completion rates, and demonstrated ability to help students outperform expectations regardless of background.
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.
