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 & New Wilmington, PA
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Westminster College, they're comparing two private institutions with similar missions but vastly different execution. Both schools emphasize business programs and serve moderate-size student bodies.
Yet ACU consistently beats earnings expectations while Westminster falls short—despite ACU serving nearly 60% Pell recipients compared to Westminster's 25%. The data reveals ACU as the stronger institutional performer across multiple dimensions.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$26,060
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$26,086
borrowed by parents
Both schools are business-focused, with identical 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. ACU's largest programs include Sports and Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), alongside Business Administration (59).
Westminster emphasizes Business Administration (39 graduates) and Biology (26), with Psychology (19) and Accounting (18) also prominent. While program concentrations vary slightly, both institutions prepare students for similar career paths in business, healthcare, and professional services.
For students prioritizing outcomes and affordability, ACU delivers superior institutional effectiveness at $8,086 less per year than Westminster. ACU achieves this while serving a more economically diverse student population, demonstrating genuine value creation rather than just selecting advantaged students.
Westminster offers a small college experience in Pennsylvania and may appeal to students preferring that geographic and cultural setting. The data points to ACU as the stronger choice for business-focused students who want proven results at a more manageable cost.
Both schools face similar affordability challenges, but ACU's superior outcomes make those payments more worthwhile.
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.
