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100.0%Acceptance
$20,000Tuition
183Students
82%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$42,631Earnings
#24 in IowaPrivate nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalOtherData: 2023-24Plymouth Brethren
Return on Investment: Strong

At $12,904/yr net price, Emmaus Bible College graduates earn $42,631/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $8,631/yr above the median for high school graduates.

Cost vs. Outcomes

Return on investment data for Emmaus Bible College
Metric Value
Average Net Price (per year) $12,904
Estimated 4-Year Cost $51,616
Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) $42,631/yr
Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma +$8,631/yr
Estimated Break-Even 6 years
Graduation Rate (6-year) 81.7%
Median Debt at Graduation $15,750

What You'll Actually Pay

Average net price by family income

Net price by family income for Emmaus Bible College
Family Income Estimated Net Price
$0 - $30,000 $10,720/yr
$30,001 - $48,000 $9,053/yr
$48,001 - $75,000 $12,281/yr
$75,001 - $110,000 $15,384/yr
$110,001+ $20,491/yr

The Risk Factor

Completion Risk: Low Risk

81.7% of students at Emmaus Bible College graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.

Analysis

Emmaus Bible College delivers solid financial value for a specialized religious institution, with graduates earning $42,631 annually while carrying just $15,750 in median debt. Your debt-to-income ratio stays manageable at roughly 37%, making loan payments feasible on typical ministry salaries.

The 81.7% graduation rate shows most students complete their programs, though the 70.3% retention rate suggests some transfer or drop out after freshman year. This pattern often reflects students discovering ministry isn't their calling or finding better financial aid elsewhere.

Biblical studies and ministry preparation programs dominate the curriculum, which limits your earning potential compared to secular degrees but aligns with the school's mission. If you plan to work in church ministry, nonprofit leadership, or Christian education, the specialized training justifies the investment. However, if you might pivot to secular careers, the degree may not open enough doors.

Only 40.3% of students receive financial aid, suggesting either modest need-based aid availability or a student body from higher-income families. The relatively low net price of $12,904 makes the school accessible without heavy borrowing.

This college works financially if you're committed to ministry careers and value the biblical foundation over maximum earning potential. The combination of reasonable costs and targeted training creates positive ROI for dedicated ministry students. However, if you're uncertain about your career direction or prioritize high earnings, you'll find better financial returns at schools offering broader academic programs and stronger alumni networks in secular industries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Emmaus Bible College worth the cost?

Emmaus Bible College offers a relatively low net price at $12,904 annually, but graduates earn just $42,631 ten years after graduation. This puts the school below average for return on investment, though the modest debt load of $15,750 keeps financial risk manageable.

What are the job prospects after graduating from Emmaus Bible College?

Graduates typically enter ministry, missions, or Christian education fields where salaries are traditionally lower. The median earnings of $42,631 reflect this career path focus rather than higher-paying secular professions.

How much debt do Emmaus Bible College students typically have?

The median debt is $15,750, which is relatively low compared to most colleges. Combined with the school's affordable net price, students avoid the heavy debt burdens common at other institutions.

Does Emmaus Bible College have good graduation rates?

Yes, with an 81.7% graduation rate, Emmaus Bible College performs well in helping students complete their degrees. The 100% acceptance rate means the school admits all applicants, yet most still finish their programs.