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 & Marshall, TX
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Wiley University, they're comparing two paths with dramatically different completion odds. Both are private nonprofit institutions in Texas focused on business education, but ACU graduates 3 times more students than Wiley.
This completion gap — 60% versus 20% — overshadows the cost comparison and fundamentally changes the risk-reward calculation for prospective families.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$24,989
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$12,630
borrowed by parents
ACU emphasizes business programs, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields alongside strong programs in health, education, and arts. ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67).
Wiley concentrates more heavily on business at 33% of graduates, with Business Administration (45 graduates) and Criminal Justice (32) leading. Both offer similar business-focused pathways, but ACU provides broader program diversity across health sciences and professional fields.
For students confident in their ability to persist and graduate, ACU offers substantially better outcomes despite the higher cost — $22,577 more in median earnings with manageable debt payments for the typical graduate. Wiley's lower price becomes irrelevant when 4 out of 5 students don't complete their programs.
The data points to ACU as the stronger choice for students with solid academic preparation and persistence. However, for students specifically drawn to Wiley's mission or community, focus intensively on academic support resources and completion strategies.
The right choice depends on your academic readiness, support needs, and confidence in completing your degree regardless of institutional completion rates.
Key Takeaway
The numbers favor Abilene Christian, 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.
