Luther Rice College & Seminary: 67.6% Acceptance Rate

67.6%Acceptance

$10,538Tuition

195Students

$47,003Earnings

Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindData: 2023-24Baptist

About Luther Rice College & Seminary

Luther Rice College & Seminary trains pastors, missionaries, and Christian leaders through both on-campus and distance education programs. The school serves 195 students in the Atlanta suburb of Lithonia. This Baptist institution has built its reputation on flexible theological education that allows working adults to pursue ministry degrees. With a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, students receive personalized attention in their biblical and theological studies.

The financial picture looks favorable for students committed to ministry careers. After aid, students typically pay $3,935 annually, making this one of the more affordable seminary options. Graduates earn a median of $47,003 ten years after graduation. While that may seem modest, it reflects the reality of ministry salaries. Students graduate with a median debt of $34,153, resulting in monthly payments of $362.

The student body skews heavily male at 68%, typical for seminaries. Nearly half of students are Black (44%) and half are White (49%), reflecting the school's diverse urban location. About 60% of students return for their second year. The school accepts 68% of applicants, welcoming students called to ministry regardless of traditional academic metrics. Distance learning options make this accessible to students across the country who cannot relocate for seminary training.

Academics & Faculty

Luther Rice operates as a Baptist seminary and college focused primarily on Christian ministry preparation and theological education. The school maintains a 10:1 student-faculty ratio across its 195 students, providing personalized attention typical of specialized religious institutions. Distance education programs serve a significant portion of students, reflecting the school's mission to train pastors and ministry leaders who may already be serving congregations. The 60% retention rate suggests the demanding nature of seminary coursework and the reality that many students balance studies with ministry responsibilities. Academic programs center on biblical studies, theology, and practical ministry training rather than traditional liberal arts disciplines. The institution's strength lies in preparing students for church leadership and Christian service careers.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Full-Time Faculty: 58.3%
Retention Rate: 60.0%
Median Earnings (10 years): $47,003
Carnegie Classification: Associate College (High Transfer)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Bible/Biblical Studies.	Master	$53,358
Theological and Ministerial Studies.	Master	$48,823
Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries.	Master	$35,701
Bible/Biblical Studies.	Bachelor	$27,126

View all 5 programs →

Campus Life

Luther Rice operates primarily as a distance education institution, with just 195 students spread across online and on-campus programs. The small Lithonia campus sits about 20 miles east of Atlanta, giving students access to a major metropolitan area while maintaining a quiet suburban setting. Georgia's mild climate means you'll need light jackets for winter but can expect warm, humid summers.

With 68% male enrollment, the student body reflects the school's focus on training pastors and Christian ministry leaders. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio creates intimate learning environments whether you're studying online or on campus. Most students balance coursework with existing ministry roles or full-time jobs. The Baptist affiliation shapes campus culture around prayer, biblical study, and practical ministry preparation.

Weekend life revolves around church involvement and family commitments rather than traditional college activities. The 60% retention rate suggests some students find the rigorous balance of ministry training and distance learning challenging. Atlanta's proximity offers cultural opportunities, though most Luther Rice students prioritize their calling over typical college social scenes.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Calendar System: Semester

Campus Safety (2023)

No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 32°–51°F
July Avg: 69°–89°F
Annual Precipitation: 51.4"
Annual Snowfall: 1.3"

Student Demographics

Luther Rice draws aspiring pastors, missionaries, and Christian ministry leaders from across the country. The student body is 68% male, reflecting traditional patterns in seminary education where men have historically dominated pastoral roles. Nearly half of students receive Pell Grants, showing the school serves many from modest economic backgrounds who feel called to ministry. The 60% retention rate suggests some students struggle with the rigorous theological coursework or discern different callings. With 195 students total, everyone knows each other in this tight-knit faith community.

Men: 68.2%
Women: 31.8%
White: 49.2%
Black: 44.1%
Hispanic: 3.1%
Asian: 1.5%
Pell Grant Recipients: 49.5%

Location

Luther Rice College & Seminary sits in Lithonia, Georgia, about 20 miles east of Atlanta. The campus occupies a suburban setting in the greater Atlanta metropolitan area, giving students access to one of the South's major urban centers while maintaining a quieter academic environment. DeKalb County offers a diverse community with strong African American heritage and growing international populations. With 195 students enrolled, the college maintains an intimate campus atmosphere despite being part of Georgia's extensive higher education landscape. The Atlanta proximity provides internship opportunities and cultural experiences while keeping costs manageable compared to downtown locations. Students considering colleges in Georgia may also compare Luther Rice College & Seminary with similar schools in the region.

Address: Lithonia, Georgia 30038-9869

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $47,003
Median Earnings (5 years): $56,823
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $41,700
Loan Repayment Rate: 26.0%
Monthly Loan Payment: $362/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $34,153

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at Luther Rice College & Seminary?

Luther Rice College & Seminary accepts 67.57% of applicants. This Baptist institution focuses primarily on training future pastors and Christian leaders. The school maintains a more selective approach than typical community colleges while remaining accessible to called ministry students.

How much does Luther Rice College & Seminary cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $3,935 annually after financial aid. Nearly half of students (49.53%) receive Pell Grants, reflecting the school's commitment to serving lower-income families called to ministry. The identical in-state and out-of-state tuition of $10,538 makes it affordable for students nationwide.

What is the student-faculty ratio at Luther Rice College & Seminary?

Luther Rice maintains a 10:1 student-faculty ratio with just 195 total students. This small size allows for intensive mentorship between professors and future ministers. The seminary atmosphere emphasizes personal discipleship alongside academic training.

What do Luther Rice College & Seminary graduates earn after graduation?

Graduates earn a median of $47,003 ten years after graduation with an 84.3% employment rate. These outcomes reflect the unique nature of ministry careers, where financial compensation often takes a backseat to calling. Many graduates serve in pastoral roles or Christian nonprofit organizations rather than pursuing maximum salary potential.

Where is Luther Rice College & Seminary located?

The school sits in Lithonia, Georgia, a large suburban area outside Atlanta. The location provides access to diverse ministry opportunities in both urban and suburban settings. Students can gain practical experience in the thriving Atlanta religious community while studying.

Is Luther Rice College & Seminary primarily a men's or women's school?

Men make up 68.21% of students while women represent 31.79% of enrollment. This gender distribution reflects traditional patterns in pastoral training programs. The student body is diverse with 49.23% White students and 44.10% Black students, representing the changing face of American Christianity.