At $20,396/yr net price, Trinity Bible College and Graduate School graduates earn $35,604/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $1,604/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $20,396 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $81,584 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $35,604/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$1,604/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 50.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 38.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,531 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $18,626/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $18,709/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $22,229/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $20,857/yr |
| $110,001+ | $26,953/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies. | Bachelor | $25,194 |
The Risk Factor
38.8% of students at Trinity Bible College and Graduate School graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Trinity Bible College delivers poor financial returns with median earnings of just $35,604 ten years after graduation against a net price exceeding $20,000 annually. The numbers get worse when you examine specific programs, with Theological and Ministerial Studies graduates earning only $25,194 per year.
The low graduation rate of 38.8% creates significant risk that you'll accumulate debt without finishing your degree. Combined with the modest median debt of $22,531, many graduates face payments they struggle to manage on ministry salaries. The 72% retention rate suggests many students recognize these financial realities early and transfer elsewhere.
You should only consider Trinity if you have a clear calling to ministry and understand the financial sacrifice involved. The school works best for students with substantial family support, those planning to serve in areas with low living costs, or students who can minimize borrowing through work-study programs. The relatively low median debt suggests the school may offer decent aid packages for qualifying students.
Look elsewhere if you need higher earning potential to support family obligations or pay off substantial undergraduate debt. Students interested in ministry but concerned about finances should explore state schools with religion programs or larger Christian universities with stronger alumni networks and career services. Trinity's rural North Dakota location limits internship and job networking opportunities that could improve post-graduation prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trinity Bible College and Graduate School worth the cost?
Trinity Bible College has poor financial outcomes with graduates earning just $35,604 ten years after enrollment, well below the national average. The 38.8% graduation rate and $22,531 median debt create significant financial risk for most students.
What is the return on investment for Trinity Bible College and Graduate School?
The ROI is negative for most students, with graduates earning $35,604 annually while carrying over $22,000 in debt. Only students planning careers in ministry should consider this school, and even then the financial outlook remains challenging.
How much debt do Trinity Bible College and Graduate School graduates have?
Trinity graduates carry a median debt of $22,531, which is difficult to repay on the typical $35,604 annual salary. The debt-to-income ratio makes this one of the riskier financial investments in higher education.
Which programs at Trinity Bible College and Graduate School have the best job prospects?
Theological and Ministerial Studies is the main program, with graduates earning around $25,194 annually. These low salaries reflect the limited earning potential in ministry careers, regardless of the degree quality.