At $25,807/yr net price, Missouri Baptist University graduates earn $46,660/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $12,660/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $25,807 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $103,228 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $46,660/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$12,660/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 8.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 48.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $23,437/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $24,367/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $24,627/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $26,652/yr |
| $110,001+ | $27,950/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, Other. | Doctoral | $72,796 | |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $56,641 | $34,762 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $53,358 | $32,145 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $44,418 | $30,303 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $38,721 | $42,527 |
| Educational/Instructional Media Design. | Master | $38,289 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $37,478 | $20,500 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Master | $36,848 | |
| Student Counseling and Personnel Services. | Master | $36,448 | $46,657 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $35,274 | $22,000 |
The Risk Factor
48.2% of students at Missouri Baptist University 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
Missouri Baptist University delivers weak financial returns for most graduates, with median earnings of $46,660 barely justifying the $25,807 annual cost. The 48% graduation rate means you face real risk of paying tuition without earning a degree.
Your major choice determines everything at MBU. The Education, Other program generates $72,796 annually, making it the clear financial winner. Educational Administration pays $56,641 with manageable $34,762 debt, while Business Administration produces $53,358 with reasonable borrowing. Avoid Teacher Education programs that saddle you with $42,527 debt for just $38,721 in annual earnings.
The biggest red flag is the 67% retention rate, indicating many students struggle academically or financially. Combined with below-average graduation rates, you risk dropping out with debt but no degree. The regional Saint Louis job market limits opportunities compared to larger metropolitan areas.
MBU works financially if you pursue education administration or business and can graduate within four years. The school fits students seeking small Christian college environments who prioritize mission over earnings potential. With only 13% of students receiving aid, merit scholarships appear limited.
Look elsewhere if you need strong financial aid packages, want diverse career options, or prioritize high earnings potential. The weak graduation and retention rates suggest MBU struggles to support student success, making it a risky investment for borderline students or those unsure about their academic commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Missouri Baptist University worth the cost?
Missouri Baptist University's graduates earn $46,660 annually after 10 years, which is below average for the $25,807 yearly cost and $22,500 median debt. The 48% graduation rate means over half of students don't finish their degree.
What programs at Missouri Baptist University have the best ROI?
Educational Administration graduates earn $72,796 annually, making it the highest-paying program at Missouri Baptist University. Business Administration graduates earn $53,358, while general education majors earn significantly less at $38,721.
How much debt do Missouri Baptist University students typically graduate with?
Missouri Baptist University graduates have a median debt of $22,500. With starting salaries around $46,660, this creates a manageable debt-to-income ratio for those who complete their degree.
Does Missouri Baptist University provide good financial aid?
Missouri Baptist University's net price of $25,807 per year is moderate for a private university. However, the relatively low post-graduation earnings make affordability challenging for many students.