Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,450/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,450/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $34,787 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Bachelor | $46,478 | $37,410 |
| Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries. | Bachelor | $35,060 |
Analysis
Nazarene Bible College delivers weak financial returns with median earnings of $41,450 ten years after graduation paired with debt levels of nearly $35,000. Your investment will struggle to pay off in most career paths this specialized religious institution offers.
Theological and Ministerial Studies represents your best bet financially, generating $46,478 in median earnings, though you'll carry $37,410 in debt to get there. Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries shows concerning numbers at just $35,060 in median earnings. These salary levels reflect the reality of religious sector employment, where compensation typically lags behind secular fields requiring similar education levels.
The school's biggest financial risk lies in its narrow focus. You're essentially betting your entire educational investment on finding work in ministry or religious organizations, which limits your career flexibility and earning potential. If you change direction or struggle to find positions in religious settings, your degree options become severely constrained.
This college makes financial sense only if you're called to ministry and willing to accept lower lifetime earnings in exchange for mission-driven work. You should look elsewhere if you need higher income potential or want career flexibility outside religious organizations.
With only 14.49% of students receiving financial aid, most families pay close to full price. The school appears to offer limited merit scholarships or need-based assistance compared to typical private colleges. Your best cost strategy involves completing the program quickly and minimizing additional living expenses in Colorado Springs, where housing costs can add significantly to your total investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nazarene Bible College worth the cost for ministry careers?
Nazarene Bible College graduates earn $41,450 annually after 10 years, which is below the national average for college graduates. With median debt of $34,787, the financial return is modest but may align with ministry career expectations where compensation is traditionally lower.
What programs at Nazarene Bible College have the best ROI?
Theological and Ministerial Studies graduates earn the highest at $46,478 annually, while Pastoral Counseling graduates average $35,060. Both figures remain below typical college graduate earnings, reflecting the nature of ministry work.
How much debt do Nazarene Bible College students typically graduate with?
The median debt is $34,787, which is manageable compared to many private colleges. However, given the lower earning potential in ministry fields, students should carefully consider their ability to repay loans on ministry salaries.
Does Nazarene Bible College provide good value for religious education?
The college serves students specifically called to ministry, where financial returns are secondary to vocational calling. The debt-to-income ratio is reasonable for this specialized field, though graduates should expect modest financial outcomes.