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 & Wilmington, OH
When students choose between Abilene Christian University and Wilmington College, they're comparing two business-focused private institutions with fundamentally different track records of institutional effectiveness. Both serve similar-sized student bodies and maintain broad access admissions, but the outcomes data reveals a stark contrast.
ACU consistently exceeds earnings expectations while costing significantly less, despite serving a more economically disadvantaged student population. The question becomes: why does one institution so dramatically outperform the other?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$24,250
federal loans
$24,208
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$26,542
borrowed by parents
$27,288
borrowed by parents
ACU is predominantly business-focused, with 27% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. Wilmington has an even stronger business concentration at 34% of graduates.
ACU's largest programs include Sports/Kinesiology (72 graduates), Finance (71), and Nursing (67), showing diversity beyond business. Wilmington's top programs center on Business Administration (86 graduates) and Agricultural Business (62).
While both institutions emphasize business education, ACU's broader program mix including health sciences and engineering may contribute to its stronger earnings outcomes for graduates.
For students prioritizing both affordability and career outcomes, ACU delivers superior value on both dimensions — lower cost at $12,714/year and higher earnings at $55,736 for typical graduates. Wilmington offers a smaller college experience in Ohio and strength in agricultural business, making it the better choice for students specifically drawn to those factors and Ohio-based career opportunities.
The data overwhelmingly points to ACU as the stronger financial choice, particularly given its ability to serve a more economically disadvantaged population while achieving better outcomes. If you're choosing based on career prospects and affordability, ACU represents the clear winner in this comparison.
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.
