At $16,664/yr net price, Central Baptist College graduates earn $46,789/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $12,789/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $16,664 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $66,656 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $46,789/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$12,789/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 35.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $13,632/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,536/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,427/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $21,054/yr |
| $110,001+ | $19,991/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $44,189 | |
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | Bachelor | $41,937 |
The Risk Factor
35.3% of students at Central 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
Central Baptist College delivers weak financial returns that make it difficult to justify the investment for most students. With median 10-year earnings of $46,789 against a net price of $16,664 annually, you face a concerning combination of modest income potential and significant financial risk.
The 35% graduation rate creates the biggest financial danger at Central Baptist. Nearly two-thirds of students leave without completing their degree, typically carrying debt but lacking the credentials needed for career advancement. Your chances of finishing are lower than at most colleges, which dramatically increases the risk of financial loss.
Among programs that do lead to graduation, Human Resources Management shows the strongest earnings at $44,189, though this still falls short of what you could earn with similar training at other institutions. Biblical Studies graduates earn $41,937, reflecting the college's religious mission but limiting career flexibility outside ministry roles.
Central Baptist makes financial sense only if you specifically need a small Christian college environment in Arkansas and have strong academic preparation that makes you likely to graduate. The 59% retention rate suggests many students struggle academically, so honest self-assessment of your readiness is critical.
With 42% of students receiving aid, financial assistance is available but not guaranteed. Merit scholarships exist but may not offset the fundamental problem of weak career outcomes. If you need significant financial aid or career flexibility, larger state universities or community colleges followed by transfer offer better financial prospects. Central Baptist works best for students with family financial support who prioritize the religious environment over economic returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Central Baptist College worth the debt?
With median debt of $22,250 and graduates earning $46,789 after 10 years, Central Baptist College provides a manageable debt-to-income ratio. However, the 35% graduation rate means many students take on debt without completing their degree.
What is the ROI for Central Baptist College programs?
Human Resources Management graduates earn around $44,189 annually, while Bible/Biblical Studies majors average $41,937. These earnings are below the national average for college graduates, making the financial return modest.
Does Central Baptist College have good job placement rates?
The school's 35% graduation rate is well below national averages, indicating many students struggle to complete their programs. This low completion rate raises concerns about job placement success for enrolled students.
How affordable is Central Baptist College compared to other schools?
At $16,664 net price per year, Central Baptist College costs less than many four-year institutions. The lower price point helps offset the below-average earnings potential of graduates.