At $21,873/yr net price, Clarks Summit University graduates earn $38,818/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,818/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $21,873 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $87,492 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,818/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,818/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 18.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 54.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,034 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $17,711/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $20,475/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $21,530/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $22,430/yr |
| $110,001+ | $26,284/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $58,673 | |
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | Master | $46,321 | |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Bachelor | $42,682 | |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $26,353 | |
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | Bachelor | $25,709 | $19,000 |
The Risk Factor
54.2% of students at Clarks Summit University graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Clarks Summit University delivers poor financial returns for most students, with median earnings barely reaching $38,818 ten years after graduation despite a net price of nearly $22,000 annually. The graduation rate of 54% means nearly half of students never finish their degree.
Your major choice determines everything at this school. Theological and Ministerial Studies graduates earn $58,673, making the investment worthwhile if you plan to enter ministry leadership. Bible/Biblical Studies shows split outcomes, with some graduates earning $46,321 while others make just $25,709. Education majors face particularly weak returns at $26,353, well below national teacher salary averages.
The biggest financial risk is choosing any program outside the top-earning ministry tracks. With low retention rates, you also face significant dropout risk that could leave you with debt but no degree. The $18,034 median debt load is manageable, but only if you actually graduate and enter a field that pays.
This school makes financial sense if you have a clear calling to ministry and can access the higher-paying theological programs. Students seeking general liberal arts education or teaching careers should look elsewhere for better returns. The school works best for students with strong religious conviction who view education as preparation for service rather than income maximization.
Nearly half of students receive financial aid, which helps offset the sticker price. Focus on merit scholarships and need-based aid to reduce your net cost below the average $21,873. Consider this school only if ministry is your definite career path and you can graduate in the top-earning programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Clarks Summit University worth the cost?
Clarks Summit University's ROI depends heavily on your major. Graduates earn a median $38,818 after 10 years, which is below average for college graduates, but the $18,034 median debt load is manageable.
What programs at Clarks Summit University have the best ROI?
Theological and Ministerial Studies leads with $58,673 in median earnings, while Bible/Biblical Studies graduates earn $25,709-$46,321 depending on the specific program. Education majors see lower returns at $26,353.
How much debt do Clarks Summit University students typically graduate with?
The median debt at Clarks Summit University is $18,034, which is relatively low compared to national averages. However, with graduate earnings of $38,818, debt payments could still strain budgets.
Does Clarks Summit University have good graduation rates?
Clarks Summit University's 54.2% graduation rate is concerning, meaning nearly half of students don't finish their degrees. This increases the risk of taking on debt without the earning benefits of a completed degree.