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 & Billings, MT
When students choose between Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and Montana State University Billings, they're comparing fundamentally different career paths across the country. ABAC in rural Georgia specializes in agriculture and related fields, offering an affordable path to careers in farming, veterinary science, and agribusiness.
MSUB in Montana focuses on business and education, preparing students for corporate and teaching careers in the Mountain West. The data reveals a classic tradeoff: lower cost but specialized focus versus higher investment with broader career options.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$18,209
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$9,604
borrowed by parents
$10,259
borrowed by parents
ABAC is predominantly agriculture-focused, with the largest programs including Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science (97 graduates), Biology (40), and Business/Commerce (37). This represents a highly specialized institutional mission.
MSUB has a more balanced approach: 31% Business, 18% Education, with top programs led by Business/Commerce (142 graduates) and Teacher Education (51). ABAC serves students seeking careers in agriculture, veterinary fields, and rural industries, while MSUB prepares graduates for business leadership and teaching positions across diverse sectors.
For students committed to agricultural careers and rural lifestyles, ABAC delivers specialized training at an affordable price point that makes sense for the sector's earning potential. MSUB offers broader career options in business and education with higher earning potential that can justify the increased investment — but only for students likely to complete their degrees.
The data points to MSUB as the stronger financial choice for students flexible on career path and committed to graduation. However, the right choice depends heavily on your career interests, geographic preferences, and ability to complete college successfully.
If agriculture is your passion, ABAC's specialized focus and lower cost make it the logical choice.
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.
