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 & Missoula, MT
When students choose between Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and The University of Montana, they're comparing institutions 1,500 miles apart with vastly different completion rates. ABAC in rural Georgia costs significantly less but graduates fewer than 3 in 10 students.
Montana in Missoula costs more but nearly half of students complete their degrees. The question becomes: is saving money worth the completion risk?
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$22,400
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$9,604
borrowed by parents
$19,000
borrowed by parents
ABAC is predominantly Agriculture-focused, with the largest programs including Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science (97 graduates) and Biology (40 graduates). Montana has a more balanced mix: 16% Business, 13% Social Science, 11% Arts.
Montana's largest programs include Psychology (97 graduates) and Teacher Education (61). These different program concentrations help explain the career trajectory differences between institutions, with ABAC preparing students for agricultural careers and Montana offering broader liberal arts preparation.
For students confident in their ability to complete college, Montana delivers higher earnings at a manageable cost increase relative to outcomes. ABAC offers significant upfront savings but comes with substantial completion risk — 71% of students don't graduate.
The data points to Montana as the stronger choice for students seeking career advancement, but ABAC makes sense for students specifically drawn to agricultural programs who can navigate the completion challenges. The right choice depends on your academic preparation, program interests, and confidence in finishing your degree.
If completion is uncertain, the lower cost at ABAC becomes meaningless.
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.
