Median Earnings (1yr)
$30,263
36th percentile (60th in MI)
Median Debt
$27,000
8% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.89
Manageable
Sample Size
18
Limited data

Analysis

Grace Christian University's Bible/Biblical Studies program produces graduates earning about $30,000 in their first year—roughly $3,600 below the national median for this field but exactly matching Michigan's state median. With just a handful of Bible studies programs in Michigan, this places Grace at the 60th percentile statewide, meaning graduates here earn more than most comparable programs in the state. The $27,000 median debt matches both the state and national typical levels, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.89 that sits comfortably within manageable range (under the 1.0 threshold where debt exceeds annual income).

The real question is whether $30,000 in starting earnings justifies the investment, regardless of how it compares to other Bible studies programs. That's a household income question more than a data question. Half of students here receive Pell grants, suggesting many families are already operating on tight budgets. For students planning ministry work or nonprofit careers—where compensation typically remains modest but debt forgiveness programs may apply—this debt load is reasonable. For those uncertain about their career path, starting at $30,000 with $27,000 in loans leaves little financial cushion.

The small sample size here means one or two graduates' outcomes could swing these numbers significantly. But the basic picture is consistent: Grace delivers middle-of-the-pack results for a field that doesn't generate high earnings anywhere.

Where Grace Christian University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all bible/biblical studies bachelors's programs nationally

Grace Christian UniversityOther bible/biblical studies programs

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 Grace Christian University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Grace Christian University graduates earn $30k, placing them in the 36th percentile of all bible/biblical studies bachelors programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan

Bible/Biblical Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (6 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Grace Christian University$30,263—$27,0000.89
National Median$33,918—$25,0000.74

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 Grace Christian University, approximately 50% 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.