16 Bible/Biblical Studies Programs
| # | School | Net Price | Program Earnings | In-State Tuition | Graduation Rate | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
William Jessup University
Rocklin, California
|
$25,300 | $33,993 | $37,150 | 60.7% | 65.9% |
| 2 |
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, California
|
$19,798 | $24,035 | $43,600 | 64.4% | 87.0% |
| 3 |
California Baptist University
Riverside, California
|
$27,384 | $32,569 | $39,720 | 59.5% | 79.9% |
| 4 |
Life Pacific University
San Dimas, California
|
$22,343 | $25,967 | $20,462 | 56.8% | 94.5% |
| 5 |
Biola University
La Mirada, California
|
$28,101 | $30,119 | $46,704 | 68.8% | 56.6% |
| 6 |
SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary
El Dorado Hills, California
|
$21,042 | $21,824 | $10,460 | 46.2% | 83.5% |
| 7 |
Bethesda University
Anaheim, California
|
$8,388 | $7,220 | 18.2% | ||
| 8 |
San Diego Christian College
Santee, California
|
$7,871 | $26,300 | 23.5% | ||
| 9 |
Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, California
|
$14,317 | $35,558 | 55.9% | 75.0% | |
| 10 |
The Master's University and Seminary
Santa Clarita, California
|
$32,121 | $36,930 | 63.7% | 78.2% | |
| 11 |
Hope International University
Fullerton, California
|
$27,653 | $36,250 | 45.7% | 32.2% | |
| 12 |
Pacific Union College
Angwin, California
|
$20,979 | $35,214 | 51.5% | 48.5% | |
| 13 |
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, California
|
$50,168 | $43,550 | 73.8% | 81.9% | |
| 14 |
Simpson University
Redding, California
|
$27,923 | $38,522 | 41.7% | ||
| 15 |
Vanguard University of Southern California
Costa Mesa, California
|
$19,761 | $39,950 | 55.9% | 74.8% | |
| 16 |
World Mission University
Los Angeles, California
|
$16,598 | $6,920 | 50.0% |
Frequently Asked Questions
What explains the wide gap between the highest and lowest net costs for Bible programs?
Net costs span $42,297 from San Diego Christian College's $7,871 to Point Loma Nazarene's $50,168. Private institutions with larger endowments typically offer more financial aid, reducing net costs despite higher sticker prices. Schools like SUM Bible College charge only $10,460 in tuition while Biola University charges $46,704. The variation reflects different institutional funding models and regional cost structures.
How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in California Bible colleges?
Higher-cost programs generally show better graduation rates, though exceptions exist. Point Loma Nazarene has both the highest net cost ($50,168) and graduation rate (73.8%). Conversely, Bethesda University has a low net cost ($8,388) but only an 18.2% graduation rate. Mid-tier schools like Biola University achieve 68.8% graduation rates with $28,101 net costs.
Does acceptance rate indicate program selectivity or accessibility in these schools?
Acceptance rates range from Hope International's selective 32.22% to Life Pacific's open 94.48%. Lower acceptance rates don't always correlate with higher costs or better outcomes. Biola University accepts 56.63% of applicants yet achieves strong graduation rates at 68.8%. Most California Bible colleges maintain relatively high acceptance rates above 75%, suggesting an emphasis on accessibility over exclusivity.
Where do Bible studies graduates typically find employment in California's economy?
California hosts major Christian media networks, large denominational headquarters, and thousands of churches requiring pastoral staff and administrators. The state's nonprofit sector, valued in billions, employs graduates in counseling, social services, and community outreach roles. Earnings between $21,824 and $33,993 reflect entry-level positions in ministry, education, and faith-based organizations. Silicon Valley's tech companies also hire chaplains and employee spiritual care coordinators.
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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.