At $19,294/yr net price, American Baptist College graduates earn $41,216/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,216/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $19,294 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $77,176 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,216/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,216/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 10.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 33.3% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $18,655/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $20,252/yr |
The Risk Factor
33.3% of students at American Baptist College graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
American Baptist College delivers poor financial returns that should give you serious pause. With median earnings of $41,216 ten years after graduation against a net price of $19,294 annually, your investment faces steep odds of paying off in any reasonable timeframe.
The 33% graduation rate creates the biggest financial risk here. Two-thirds of students who enroll never finish their degree, leaving them with debt but no credential to show for it. Even if you do graduate, the low median earnings suggest limited career advancement opportunities for most programs.
This school makes financial sense only if you plan to enter ministry or nonprofit work where compensation expectations differ from traditional career paths. The college's religious mission and small size may provide valuable networking and mentorship opportunities within Baptist communities that aren't captured in earnings data.
You should look elsewhere if maximizing financial returns drives your college decision. The combination of modest earnings potential and high dropout risk creates a particularly dangerous financial profile. Students seeking traditional business, healthcare, or professional careers will find better ROI options at Tennessee state schools or regional universities with stronger job placement records.
Financial aid covers most students, but this may reflect the college's recognition that its sticker price exceeds what the market will bear. The 80% retention rate shows students who make it through freshman year tend to stick around, but that still leaves you facing 2-to-1 odds against graduation when you first enroll.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American Baptist College worth the cost?
American Baptist College has concerning ROI metrics with graduates earning $41,216 ten years after enrollment against a net price of $19,294 per year. The 33% graduation rate means most students don't complete their programs, making the investment risky for many.
What is the return on investment for American Baptist College graduates?
Graduates earn about $41,216 annually ten years post-enrollment, which is below the national average for college graduates. With annual costs around $19,294, students need several years to recover their educational investment.
How much debt do American Baptist College students typically have?
While specific debt data varies, the low graduation rate of 33% means many students accumulate debt without completing degrees. Students should carefully consider financial aid packages and career prospects in ministry or related fields before enrolling.
Which programs at American Baptist College have the best job prospects?
As a seminary focused on ministry training, job outcomes depend heavily on pastoral placement and denominational connections rather than salary potential. Students should evaluate calling to ministry alongside financial considerations, as religious work typically offers modest compensation.