At $20,303/yr net price, Johnson University graduates earn $40,596/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $6,596/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $20,303 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $81,212 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $40,596/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$6,596/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 12.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 62.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $21,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $14,271/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $17,570/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $18,930/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $22,121/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,774/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $30,771 | $20,343 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Bachelor | $26,585 | $19,767 |
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | Bachelor | $25,310 | $23,250 |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Bachelor | $25,194 | $23,456 |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $24,035 | |
| Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries. | Bachelor | $23,579 | $25,267 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $21,052 | $21,500 |
The Risk Factor
62.2% of students at Johnson University graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 38% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Johnson University delivers weak financial returns that reflect its focus on ministry and social service careers. Your median earnings of just over $40,000 ten years after graduation barely justify the $20,303 annual cost, especially given the 38% dropout rate.
The earnings data reveals the core problem: even the highest-paying program, Theological and Ministerial Studies, produces median earnings of only $30,771. Bible and Biblical Studies graduates earn $25,310 while carrying $23,250 in debt. Mental and Social Health Services graduates face similar low earnings at $26,585. Communication and Media Studies rounds out the bottom at $24,035. These salary levels make loan repayment challenging and limit your financial flexibility after graduation.
Johnson University works financially only if you're called to ministry or social service work and can keep borrowing minimal. The school attracts students with clear vocational purpose who prioritize mission over money. If you need higher earnings potential to support a family or pay off significant debt, you should consider other options.
The 74% retention rate suggests many students discover the financial reality doesn't match their expectations. Your best strategy here involves minimizing borrowing through scholarships, working during school, or choosing a less expensive path to ministry credentials. The relatively low aid percentage means you'll likely pay close to full price unless you qualify for need-based federal aid.
This school makes sense for students with strong family financial support or those planning graduate school in higher-paying fields. Everyone else faces a difficult financial equation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Johnson University worth the cost?
Johnson University's graduates earn $40,596 ten years after graduation, which is below average for college graduates nationally. With a net price of $20,303 annually and typical debt of $21,500, the financial return is modest but manageable for those committed to ministry or social service careers.
What programs at Johnson University have the best job prospects?
Theological and Ministerial Studies offers the highest earnings at $30,771, though this is still below the national average for college graduates. Mental Health Services graduates earn $26,585, while Bible Studies and Communication majors earn in the mid-$20,000s.
How much debt do Johnson University students typically graduate with?
Johnson University graduates carry a median debt of $21,500, which is relatively low compared to many private colleges. However, given the below-average earnings of most programs, students should carefully consider their ability to repay loans on ministry or social service salaries.
Does Johnson University provide good value for students interested in ministry?
Johnson University serves students called to ministry careers, but the financial returns are limited with most programs paying in the $25,000-$30,000 range. The school's focus on Christian service means graduates should expect lower salaries typical of nonprofit and religious work.