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 • Tifton, GA & Clarksville, TN
When students choose between Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and Austin Peay State University, they're comparing two affordable public options where completion risk varies dramatically. Both schools welcome students with broad access admissions, but Austin Peay graduates 45% of students while Abraham Baldwin graduates just 29%.
The question becomes: is saving money upfront worth the completion risk?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$20,547
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$9,604
borrowed by parents
$14,710
borrowed by parents
Abraham Baldwin is predominantly agriculture-focused, with programs concentrated in Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science (97 graduates annually), Biology (40), and Agricultural Business (34). Austin Peay has a more balanced mix emphasizing health-related fields: Sports/Kinesiology (194 graduates), Registered Nursing (148), and Liberal Arts (113).
Abraham Baldwin's agricultural specialization serves niche career paths, while Austin Peay's diverse program offerings align with broader regional employment markets, potentially explaining the completion and earnings differences.
For students prioritizing completion likelihood and earnings potential, Austin Peay delivers a 45% graduation rate and $44,301 median earnings despite the higher cost. Abraham Baldwin offers significant upfront savings at $8,785/year less, making it the better choice for students confident in their ability to complete specialized agricultural programs and those targeting specific agricultural careers.
The data points to Austin Peay as the stronger overall value when factoring in completion risk, but the right choice depends on your program interests, completion confidence, and family financial circumstances. If agricultural careers align with your goals and you're committed to completion, Abraham Baldwin's specialized programs and lower cost make sense.
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.
