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 & Fredericksburg, VA
When students choose between Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and University of Mary Washington, they're comparing fundamentally different educational paths with starkly different completion rates. ABAC in Tifton, Georgia specializes in agriculture and serves a predominantly rural student population.
Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia offers a comprehensive liberal arts education. The completion gap tells the real story: 67% versus 29%.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$16,750
federal loans
$20,500
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$9,604
borrowed by parents
$26,240
borrowed by parents
ABAC is agriculture-focused, with top programs including Agricultural Sciences (97 graduates), Biology (40), and Agricultural Business (34). The college also offers business (11% of graduates) and education programs (11%).
Mary Washington has a business emphasis (16% of graduates) with strength across liberal arts: Business Administration (173 graduates), Liberal Arts (129), Psychology (102), and Biology (89). These represent fundamentally different career preparation paths.
For students with clear agricultural career goals and strong academic preparation, ABAC delivers specialized training at exceptional affordability — but only for those who complete. Mary Washington offers broader career preparation with much higher completion rates, making it the financially safer choice for most students despite the higher cost.
The data points to Mary Washington as the stronger overall value due to completion rates, but the right choice depends on career goals, academic preparation, and risk tolerance. If you're committed to agriculture and well-prepared academically, ABAC offers unmatched specialization and affordability.
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.
