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Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries programs in Illinois show remarkable cost variation, with Dominican University offering net costs at $15,113 while Loyola University Chicago reaches $35,196. The state's growing mental health sector creates demand for faith-based counselors, particularly in Chicago's varied religious communities. Trinity Christian College and Lincoln Christian University keep published tuition under $21,000, making ministry education accessible. Nine schools across Illinois blend theological training with counseling skills, preparing graduates for roles in churches, nonprofits, and faith-based healthcare organizations throughout the Midwest.
9
Programs
$15,113 – $35,196
Net Price Range
60.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $15,113 $37,844 62.4% 89.5%
2 $16,381 $20,325 63.9% 70.7%
3 $17,610 $15,400 58.2%
4 $18,191 $35,325 56.0% 68.0%
5 $21,270 $30,598 51.4% 94.1%
6 $21,539 $37,940 60.3% 57.8%
7 $25,007 $15,356 62.0% 94.1%
8 $25,027 $30,910 53.3% 58.2%
9 $35,196 $51,716 76.9% 79.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $20,000 cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Dominican University's net price of $15,113 reflects significant financial aid, while their published tuition sits at $37,844. Loyola University Chicago commands $35,196 net costs but offers stronger graduate outcomes at 76.90% compared to the state average of 60.30%.

How do acceptance rates vary among Illinois ministry programs?

Most schools welcome qualified candidates with high acceptance rates, including Greenville University at 94.12% and Moody Bible Institute at 94.14%. Olivet Nazarene University maintains more selective admissions at 57.80%, while Judson University accepts 58.20% of applicants.

Where do graduates typically find employment in Illinois?

Chicago's large religious community supports numerous faith-based counseling positions in hospitals, nonprofits, and congregations. The state's MAP Grant program helps students afford ministry education, with graduates often serving rural communities and urban parishes throughout Illinois.

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