Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,608 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $26,432 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 46.4% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,367/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,849/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Master | $56,157 | |
| Religion/Religious Studies. | Master | $44,572 | |
| Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies. | Master | $36,312 |
The Risk Factor
46.4% of students at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary 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
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary offers an unusually low net price at $6,608 annually, making it one of the most affordable seminary educations available. However, the 46% graduation rate creates significant financial risk since you pay even if you don't finish your degree.
The seminary's strength lies in its core mission programs. Theological and Ministerial Studies graduates earn $56,157 annually, representing solid returns for ministry careers. Religion/Religious Studies graduates earn $44,572, which provides reasonable income potential relative to the low cost. These outcomes reflect the school's focus and the specific demands of religious vocations in North Carolina and the Southeast.
Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies shows weaker returns at $36,312 annually. While this salary isn't necessarily poor for ministry-adjacent roles, you should carefully research specific career paths before committing to this program.
The biggest red flag is the low percentage of students receiving financial aid at just 18%. This suggests either very limited aid availability or that most students come from families that don't qualify for need-based assistance. Merit scholarships may be scarce given the already low sticker price.
This school makes financial sense if you're committed to ministry careers and value affordability over prestige. The combination of low cost and ministry-focused outcomes creates positive ROI for dedicated students. However, you should have backup plans given the graduation rate concerns. Students seeking broader career flexibility or those uncertain about completing seminary should consider other options with stronger completion rates and more diverse program offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary worth the cost?
The low net price of $6,608 per year makes Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary affordable, but the 46% graduation rate raises concerns about completion risk. Most graduates enter ministry roles with modest earning potential, so the financial return depends heavily on your career goals and calling rather than salary expectations.
What is the ROI for Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary graduates?
Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary graduates in Theological Studies earn around $56,157 annually, which provides reasonable returns given the low cost of attendance. However, nearly half of students don't graduate, which significantly impacts the overall value proposition for many who enroll.
Are Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary degrees worth it financially?
The seminary's degrees lead to careers in ministry and religious education, where financial rewards are typically modest but meaningful to those called to serve. With low tuition costs, graduates usually avoid heavy debt burdens that plague students at more expensive institutions.
Should I attend Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary for the money?
No, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary should not be chosen primarily for financial reasons. Ministry careers rarely offer high salaries, and the graduation rate suggests many students struggle to complete their programs, making this a poor choice for those seeking guaranteed financial returns.