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 & San Antonio, TX
When students choose between Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and The University of Texas at San Antonio, they're comparing two distinct career pathways within public higher education. ABAC in rural Georgia specializes in agricultural sciences and serves students pursuing careers in farming, forestry, and related fields.
UTSA in San Antonio offers comprehensive programs spanning business, psychology, and communications. The earnings difference reflects these fundamentally different career trajectories, not institutional effectiveness.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$20,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$9,604
borrowed by parents
$13,859
borrowed by parents
ABAC is predominantly agriculture-focused, with students concentrated in agricultural sciences, biology, and business management. The largest programs include Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science (97 graduates annually) and Biology (40).
UTSA has a more balanced mix: 20% Business, 8% Engineering, and strong offerings across Psychology (482 graduates) and Sports/Kinesiology (355). These program concentrations directly influence career outcomes, with ABAC preparing students for agricultural careers and UTSA feeding graduates into diverse urban professional roles.
For students pursuing agricultural careers or rural Georgia opportunities, ABAC delivers specialized training at a lower upfront cost, though graduates face payment challenges due to sector earnings. UTSA offers broader career pathways, higher earning potential, and stronger completion rates — making it the better choice for students seeking urban professional careers and who can manage the higher cost.
The data points to UTSA as the stronger overall value proposition, but the right choice depends fundamentally on your career goals, geographic preferences, and interest in agricultural versus general business and professional fields.
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.
