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 • Jacksonville, AL & Wichita Falls, TX
When students choose between Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, and Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama, they're comparing two broad-access public universities with strikingly similar missions — yet notably different financial outcomes. Both enroll substantial shares of Pell-eligible and first-generation students, and both concentrate heavily in health fields.
But Midwestern State costs less per year and sends graduates into careers with higher typical earnings. The data reveals that Midwestern State outperforms demographic expectations while Jacksonville State falls slightly short — a distinction worth examining closely before committing.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$22,189
federal loans
$21,030
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$13,672
borrowed by parents
$19,367
borrowed by parents
Both institutions are predominantly Health-focused, which shapes their career pipelines considerably. Midwestern State's largest programs include Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (207 graduates), Registered Nursing (197 graduates), and Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies (193 graduates), with Business accounting for roughly 14% of the program mix.
Jacksonville State similarly emphasizes health, with Registered Nursing as its largest program (295 graduates), followed by Teacher Education (157 graduates) and Liberal Arts (106 graduates). Jacksonville State's mix also includes 13% Business and 13% Education — giving it somewhat broader program diversity across professional fields compared to Midwestern State's more concentrated health and allied health focus.
For students prioritizing long-term earnings and lower annual cost, Midwestern State University delivers a notable financial advantage — $10,512 more in typical median earnings at 10 years and $2,623 less per year in net price, while outperforming demographic earnings predictions by $8,462. Jacksonville State University offers a meaningful counterpoint: a higher graduation rate (54.
72% vs. 42.
74%), stronger institutional access for low-income students, and a broader program mix spanning health, education, and business. For students who want the best financial outcome and can navigate a lower completion-rate environment, the data favors Midwestern State.
For students who prioritize structured pathways to graduation and a more diverse academic offering, Jacksonville State may be the better fit. Both schools serve similar populations well — the right choice depends on your program interests, geographic preferences, and how you weigh earnings potential against completion support.
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.
