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 & El Paso, TX
When students choose between Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and The University of Texas at El Paso, they're comparing fundamentally different career paths at different price points. ABAC offers specialized agricultural education in rural Georgia for $6,061/year.
UTEP provides comprehensive university education in urban El Paso for $10,726/year. The earnings data reveals a clear payoff for UTEP's higher cost, but the decision hinges on career goals and geographic preferences.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$18,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$9,604
borrowed by parents
$11,916
borrowed by parents
ABAC is agriculture-focused, with its dominant program family reflecting its specialized mission in agricultural sciences. The largest programs include Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science (97 graduates) and Biology (40 graduates).
UTEP has a more diverse mix: 16. 9% Business, 14.
2% Engineering, with top programs in Nursing (347 graduates), Criminal Justice (283), and Biology (268). These program concentrations directly explain the significant earnings differences between institutions, as UTEP's engineering and business focus leads to higher-paying career paths.
For students prioritizing long-term earning potential, UTEP delivers substantially higher career outcomes that justify the $4,665/year cost premium. ABAC offers specialized agricultural education at lower cost, making it the better choice for students committed to farming, forestry, or veterinary preparation who value the specialized curriculum and rural Georgia setting.
The data points to UTEP as the stronger financial value for most career paths, but the right choice depends on your professional goals, geographic preferences, and commitment to agricultural fields. If you're certain about agricultural careers, ABAC provides focused training at lower cost.
For broader career flexibility and higher earnings potential, UTEP is the clear financial winner.
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.
