At $17,819/yr net price, Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary graduates earn $40,650/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $6,650/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,819 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $71,276 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $40,650/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$6,650/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 10.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 61.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,971 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $15,556/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $15,882/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,038/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $20,565/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,509/yr |
The Risk Factor
61.1% of students at Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 39% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Faith Baptist Bible College delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your career path after graduation. With median earnings of $40,650 ten years post-graduation and relatively low debt loads around $13,000, the school keeps borrowing manageable even if income potential remains limited.
Your major choice matters significantly here. Programs leading to pastoral ministry, Christian education, or nonprofit work align with the school's mission but typically generate lower lifetime earnings. Business and education tracks offer better financial prospects within the limited scope of a Bible college degree. Music and arts programs carry the highest financial risk given narrow career paths and income volatility.
The school's biggest financial advantage is its low cost structure. At under $18,000 net price annually, you avoid the crushing debt loads common at other private colleges. However, only 37% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited scholarship opportunities for middle-income families.
Faith Baptist works financially for students committed to ministry careers who value affordability over earning potential. The 61% graduation rate indicates some students struggle to complete programs, which represents pure financial loss. If you're uncertain about ministry as a career or seeking broader employment options, you should consider schools with stronger liberal arts programs and regional employer recognition.
The school's Iowa location limits networking opportunities compared to urban markets. This geographic isolation compounds the challenge of leveraging a specialized religious degree in secular job markets. Your best financial strategy involves completing the degree efficiently, minimizing living costs, and having clear post-graduation employment plans within Christian organizations or continuing to seminary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary worth the cost?
With graduates earning $40,650 ten years after enrollment and a net price of $17,819 annually, the financial return is below average for college graduates. The relatively low debt load of $12,971 helps, but career earnings may limit your ability to quickly recoup educational costs.
What is the job market like for Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary graduates?
Most graduates enter ministry, education, or nonprofit work where salaries tend to be lower than other fields. The median earnings of $40,650 reflect these career paths, which prioritize service over financial compensation.
How much debt do Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary students typically graduate with?
The median debt is $12,971, which is significantly lower than the national average of around $30,000. This manageable debt level helps offset the lower post-graduation earnings potential.
What is the graduation rate at Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary?
The graduation rate is 61.1%, which means about 4 in 10 students who start don't finish their degree. This completion rate is below the national average and represents a risk factor when considering the investment.