Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 72.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 71.4%
- Retention Rate
- 85.2%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $47,491
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $20,177
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 10:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 89.8%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $214/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $37,856 | $20,695 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $18,771 | |
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Bachelor | $15,472 | $18,899 |
Outcomes Overview
Martin Luther College graduates enter a specialized but stable career path with manageable debt burdens. The median debt of $20,177 represents just 43% of first-year earnings at $40,540, well below the concerning 100% threshold. Monthly loan payments of $214 consume about 6% of typical graduate income, a reasonable burden. The college's 97.2% employment rate reflects strong demand for WELS teachers and pastors in Lutheran schools and churches nationwide. While the median 10-year earnings of $47,491 lag behind many four-year graduates, the mission-driven career paths offer job security and community respect. The focused training and low debt load create a strong return on investment for students committed to Lutheran education ministry.