At $38,775/yr net price, Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary-Overbrook graduates earn $55,225/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $21,225/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $38,775 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $155,100 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $55,225/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$21,225/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 7.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 44.4% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $32,698/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $44,853/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $54,644 |
The Risk Factor
44.4% of students at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary-Overbrook 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
Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary-Overbrook presents a challenging financial proposition with a median 10-year earnings of $55,225 against a net price approaching $39,000 annually. The return on investment remains weak compared to most four-year institutions, reflecting the specialized nature of seminary education and the modest compensation typical in religious vocations.
Your career path here leads primarily to ministry work through Theological and Ministerial Studies programs, which generate median earnings of $54,644. These figures align closely with the overall institutional median, indicating consistent but limited earning potential across the seminary's focused curriculum. The regional job market for clergy and religious workers in the Philadelphia area offers stability but little room for significant salary growth.
The 44% graduation rate represents a substantial financial risk, particularly given the high annual costs. If you leave without completing your degree, you face significant debt with limited career options outside religious work. The 100% retention rate suggests those who enroll typically stay through their second year, but many still fail to graduate.
This school makes financial sense only if you have a confirmed calling to religious life and understand the income limitations inherent in ministry work. The 12.5% of students receiving financial aid suggests limited institutional support, making this primarily a full-pay institution.
You should look elsewhere if you need higher earning potential to justify education costs or lack certainty about pursuing religious vocations. The specialized nature of seminary education offers little flexibility for career pivoting if your plans change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary-Overbrook worth the cost for theology students?
With graduates earning around $55,000 annually and paying nearly $39,000 per year, the financial return is modest. This seminary serves a specific calling rather than maximizing earning potential.
What is the graduation rate at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary-Overbrook?
Only 44% of students graduate, which is concerning for the investment. The low completion rate suggests students should carefully consider their commitment before enrolling.
How much debt do Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary-Overbrook graduates typically have?
With annual costs near $39,000 and starting salaries around $55,000, debt-to-income ratios can be challenging. Students should explore seminary-specific financial aid and diocesan support options.
Are there better alternatives to Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary-Overbrook for ministry education?
Compare costs with other seminaries and consider state schools with religion programs if ordination isn't required. The 75% acceptance rate suggests this isn't the most selective option available.