Skip to main content
Bryan College leads Tennessee's Bible studies programs with net costs starting at $16,494, creating a dramatic $15,602 gap between the most and least affordable options. The state's 12 programs show striking variation in outcomes, with Union University achieving 70.9% graduation rates while others hover near 46%. Tennessee's tax-free environment and growing healthcare sector, anchored by HCA Healthcare, creates unique opportunities for ministry-focused graduates pursuing chaplaincy roles in medical settings. Freed-Hardeman graduates earn $52,107 annually, more than double the $25,310 starting point at Johnson University, reflecting varied career paths from pastoral ministry to nonprofit leadership.
12
Programs
$16,494 – $32,096
Net Price Range
$38,709
Avg. Program Earnings
60.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Bible/Biblical Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $16,494 $18,900 55.9%
2 $18,661 $34,700 46.4% 79.8%
3 $19,983 $20,796 61.4%
4 $20,082 $25,000 68.4% 91.2%
5 $20,303 $20,318 62.2% 63.2%
6 $20,399 $22,690 60.7% 72.6%
7 $21,131 $39,350 60.3% 66.7%
8 $23,508 $34,800 46.4% 60.8%
9 $24,334 $25,590 51.4% 65.8%
10 $25,610 $38,824 68.7% 71.1%
11 $26,815 $38,450 70.9% 52.6%
12 $32,096 $41,320 71.7% 96.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the wide cost difference between Tennessee Bible programs?

Bryan College's $16,494 net cost reflects its focused mission and smaller scale, while Belmont University's $32,096 represents a full university model. Private colleges dominate this field, with net costs ranging from Bryan's budget-friendly approach to Belmont's premium pricing that includes broader campus resources.

How do graduation rates vary among Tennessee Bible studies programs?

Belmont University leads with 71.7% graduation rates, followed closely by Union University at 70.9%. Several programs cluster around 60-62%, while Carson-Newman and King University both report 46.4% completion rates, suggesting different student preparation levels or program structures.

Does earning potential justify the investment in Bible studies programs?

Freed-Hardeman graduates average $52,107 annually, demonstrating strong career outcomes that offset the program's $23,884 average debt load. Johnson University graduates start at $25,310 but carry similar debt levels at $23,250, highlighting the importance of career planning and ministry placement.

Where do Bible studies graduates find work in Tennessee?

Tennessee's healthcare industry, led by HCA Healthcare, employs many chaplains and spiritual care coordinators. The state's music industry in Nashville also draws graduates into Christian entertainment and nonprofit work, while traditional pastoral roles remain strong across the state's numerous denominations.

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.