Bible/Biblical Studies at Elim Bible Institute and College

Elim's biblical studies program produces graduates earning just $18,339 one year after completion—less than half the national median for this degree. While that places this program in the bottom 5% nationally, context matters: it actually represents the median outcome for New York's (admittedly tiny) biblical studies market, where only two schools offer this associate's degree.

The financial picture here is stark. These earnings fall well below living wage thresholds in most of New York, and even the relatively modest $12,000 in debt creates a meaningful burden at this income level. Nearly half of students receive Pell grants, suggesting many families are already financially stretched before taking on additional debt. The national comparison shows what's possible—other programs achieve median earnings above $30,000—but New York students in this field consistently see lower returns.

For parents, this calls for uncomfortable conversations about post-graduation plans. If your child is pursuing ministry or mission work where compensation isn't the primary consideration, understand they'll likely need family support or additional employment. If the goal is self-sufficiency through church employment, investigate specific job placement outcomes and whether graduates typically need bachelor's degrees to advance into viable positions. The open admission and supportive environment may serve students well pastorally, but the economic pathway from this degree to financial independence isn't clear.