Religious Education at Grace Christian University

Grace Christian University's Religious Education program produces graduates with $33,308 in first-year earnings—slightly above the national median for this field and right at Michigan's average. The $30,750 in debt is notable, but the 0.92 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates are looking at roughly 11 months of their first year's salary to cover their total borrowing, which is manageable territory. One caveat: this is one of only three Religious Education programs in Michigan, so the state comparison has limited meaning.

The real question is whether ministry-focused education justifies the investment. At 99% admission and 50% Pell grant enrollment, Grace serves a financially diverse student body who likely value the faith-based mission over earnings potential. The debt load here sits in the 19th percentile nationally—meaning most comparable programs saddle students with significantly more—which suggests Grace keeps costs relatively contained compared to similar institutions.

With fewer than 30 graduates in the data, treat these numbers as directional rather than definitive. For students committed to religious education careers, this program delivers slightly-better-than-average outcomes without the crushing debt burdens common at many faith-based colleges. That's not a glamorous pitch, but for families seeking affordable training for ministry work, the fundamentals check out.