At $14,334/yr net price, Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology graduates earn $51,724/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $17,724/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $14,334 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $57,336 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $51,724/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$17,724/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 44.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $110,001+ | $14,334/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $33,993 | $23,157 |
The Risk Factor
44.4% of students at Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology 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
Hellenic College-Holy Cross delivers poor financial returns despite its low net price of $14,334 per year. The median graduate earns just $51,724 ten years after enrollment, barely exceeding what many community college graduates achieve.
The school's theological and ministerial studies program produces particularly weak outcomes, with graduates earning only $33,993 annually while carrying $23,157 in debt. This income level makes loan repayment challenging and limits career flexibility. The 44% graduation rate signals that many students leave without completing their degrees, wasting time and money.
Your biggest financial risk here is career limitation. The school primarily trains Orthodox clergy and religious educators, creating a narrow job market with limited earning potential. If you change your mind about religious vocation, your degree has minimal transferability to higher-paying secular careers.
This school makes financial sense only if you're committed to Orthodox ministry and can secure significant scholarship support. The 18% of students receiving aid get substantial assistance, making the education essentially free for some. Without major financial aid, you're better served pursuing religious studies at a state university with broader career preparation.
The perfect retention rate suggests strong student support once enrolled, but the low graduation rate indicates academic or financial struggles that force many to leave. You should have clear religious calling and realistic expectations about lifetime earnings before enrolling. This institution serves a specific religious community well but offers poor financial prospects for career changers or those seeking economic mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology worth the cost?
The school offers a low net price of $14,334 annually, but graduates earn just $51,724 ten years after enrollment. With only a 44% graduation rate and limited career paths outside ministry, the financial return is weak for most students.
What is the job market like for Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology graduates?
Most graduates enter theological and ministerial careers with median earnings around $34,000. The specialized religious focus severely limits job opportunities outside Orthodox ministry and related church work.
How much debt do students typically graduate with from Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology?
The median debt is $21,500, which is manageable compared to many colleges. However, with graduate earnings averaging $51,724, debt payments may still strain budgets given the low-paying nature of ministry work.
Should I attend Hellenic College-Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology for financial reasons?
No, this school should only be considered if you have a strong calling to Orthodox ministry. The low earnings potential and limited career options make it a poor choice for students seeking financial stability or career flexibility.