Abilene Christian University vs Texas A&M University-College Station
These Texas universities offer contrasting educational experiences. ACU admits 66% of applicants compared to Texas A&M's 63%, making admission difficulty nearly equivalent.
Cost differences are substantial. Texas A&M charges in-state students $13,099 annually versus ACU's $42,380 flat rate. Even out-of-state students pay less at A&M ($40,328). Average net prices favor A&M at $20,924 compared to ACU's $27,401.
Academic environments differ significantly. ACU provides smaller classes with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio versus A&M's 19:1, creating more personalized attention at the Christian institution. However, A&M demonstrates stronger retention (94% vs 80%) and graduation rates (84% vs 60%).
Campus experiences contrast sharply in scale. A&M enrolls 59,099 students, offering the traditional large state university atmosphere with extensive research opportunities and diverse programming. ACU serves 3,129 students, providing an intimate community centered on Christian values and close faculty relationships.
Outcomes heavily favor Texas A&M. Graduates earn a median $72,097 after ten years compared to ACU's $55,736. A&M students also graduate with lower debt ($17,804 vs $24,250), despite ACU's higher sticker price.
Both compete in NCAA Division I athletics, though A&M operates at a much larger scale with greater national visibility.
Students seeking personalized attention, faith-based education, and tight-knit community should consider ACU, while those wanting extensive resources, research opportunities, and stronger financial outcomes fit better at Texas A&M.
These Texas universities offer contrasting educational experiences. ACU admits 66% of applicants compared to Texas A&M's 63%, making admission difficulty nearly equivalent.
Cost differences are substantial. Texas A&M charges in-state students $13,099 annually versus ACU's $42,380 flat rate. Even out-of-state students pay less at A&M ($40,328). Average net prices favor A&M at $20,924 compared to ACU's $27,401.
Academic environments differ significantly. ACU provides smaller classes with a 13:1 student-faculty ratio versus A&M's 19:1, creating more personalized attention at the Christian institution. However, A&M demonstrates stronger retention (94% vs 80%) and graduation rates (84% vs 60%).
Campus experiences contrast sharply in scale. A&M enrolls 59,099 students, offering the traditional large state university atmosphere with extensive research opportunities and diverse programming. ACU serves 3,129 students, providing an intimate community centered on Christian values and close faculty relationships.
Outcomes heavily favor Texas A&M. Graduates earn a median $72,097 after ten years compared to ACU's $55,736. A&M students also graduate with lower debt ($17,804 vs $24,250), despite ACU's higher sticker price.
Both compete in NCAA Division I athletics, though A&M operates at a much larger scale with greater national visibility.
Students seeking personalized attention, faith-based education, and tight-knit community should consider ACU, while those wanting extensive resources, research opportunities, and stronger financial outcomes fit better at Texas A&M.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Abilene Christian University | Texas A & M University-College Station | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 65.8% | 62.7% |
| SAT Average | 1,175 | 1,270 |
| Enrollment | 3,129 | 59,099 |
| In-State Tuition | $42,380 | $13,099 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $42,380 | $40,328 |
| Net Price | $27,401 | $20,924 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 60.2% | 83.8% |
| Retention Rate | 79.5% | 94.3% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $55,736 | $72,097 |
| Median Debt | $24,250 | $17,804 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| Abilene Christian University | Texas A & M University-College Station | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $58,522 | Petroleum Engineering. | $92,124 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | $57,318 | Marine Transportation. | $86,129 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. | $44,747 | Chemical Engineering. | $80,669 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | $44,170 | Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $77,062 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | $42,905 | Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $77,024 |