Religion/Religious Studies at California Baptist University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
California Baptist University's Religion program shows surprisingly strong performance for California, ranking in the 80th percentile statewide—well above Cal State Northridge and even UC Santa Barbara. At $29,582 in first-year earnings, graduates earn about $8,000 more than the typical California religion major and $4,000 above the national median. That's meaningful differentiation in a field not known for high early earnings.
The debt picture requires some context. While $24,474 sits near the national median for religion programs, it's substantially higher than California's typical $15,873. However, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.83 remains manageable—graduates owe less than one year's salary, and the higher absolute earnings should make repayment more feasible than at programs with lower debt but also lower earnings.
The major caveat here is sample size: fewer than 30 graduates means these numbers could swing significantly year to year. Still, outperforming 80% of California religion programs suggests this isn't random luck. For families considering a religion degree in California—often a stepping stone to ministry, nonprofit work, or graduate studies—this program delivers better early-career positioning than most in-state alternatives, though you're paying somewhat more to get there.
Where California Baptist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all religion/religious studies bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How California Baptist University graduates compare to all programs nationally
California Baptist University graduates earn $30k, placing them in the 68th percentile of all religion/religious studies bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Religion/Religious Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (54 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California Baptist University | $29,582 | — | $24,474 | 0.83 |
| California State University-Northridge | $23,219 | — | $13,483 | 0.58 |
| University of California-Santa Barbara | $19,911 | — | $15,873 | 0.80 |
| Yeshiva Ohr Elchonon Chabad West Coast Talmudical Seminary | $15,652 | $21,910 | — | — |
| National Median | $25,450 | — | $25,000 | 0.98 |
Other Religion/Religious Studies Programs in California
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| California State University-Northridge Northridge | $7,095 | $23,219 | $13,483 |
| University of California-Santa Barbara Santa Barbara | $14,965 | $19,911 | $15,873 |
| Yeshiva Ohr Elchonon Chabad West Coast Talmudical Seminary Los Angeles | $16,900 | $15,652 | — |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At California Baptist University, approximately 41% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 19 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.