Education at Belmont Abbey College

Belmont Abbey College's education program shows earnings that fall short of both state and national benchmarks, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift significantly with more data. Most concerning: graduates earn about $6,000 less than the typical North Carolina education graduate and nearly $8,000 below the national median one year out. While the program ranks at the 40th percentile statewide—essentially middle of the pack among NC schools—that's still below where most families would hope to land.

The backwards earnings trajectory is unusual. First-year teachers typically earn $30,966, but by year four that drops to $27,947. This 10% decline runs counter to normal career progression and suggests graduates may be struggling to advance or maintain full-time positions in their field. With $27,000 in debt (slightly above state and national medians), the financial picture grows tighter when earnings move in the wrong direction.

For parents weighing this option: compare carefully against other NC education programs. Salem College, for instance, produces graduates earning $36,646—about $6,000 more annually than Belmont Abbey's typical outcome. That difference compounds over a teaching career. Given the modest 90% admission rate and relatively accessible SAT requirements, families should consider whether comparable or more selective programs might deliver stronger employment outcomes for similar or lower cost.