Theological and Ministerial Studies at Johnson University

Johnson University's theological studies program produces graduates earning slightly above the national median for ministry degrees—$33,627 versus $32,211—and ranks at the 60th percentile among Tennessee's eleven ministry programs. With $23,250 in median debt, graduates face a debt load about 10% below the national median for this field, resulting in a manageable 0.69 debt-to-earnings ratio. For a program preparing students for ministry work, where modest earnings are the norm rather than the exception, these numbers suggest reasonable financial positioning.

The challenge lies in what happens after graduation: earnings inch up just $952 over four years, settling around $34,500. Ministry positions typically offer stability rather than rapid salary growth, and these figures reflect that reality. Tennessee's ministerial job market tends toward smaller congregations and nonprofit organizations where compensation increases slowly. The state's lower cost of living compared to national averages provides some cushion, though graduates should plan for a careful financial runway in their early career years.

For families accepting that ministry work means trading higher earning potential for mission-driven work, Johnson delivers on-par outcomes with less debt than typical for the field. The numbers work if your student is committed to vocational ministry and understands they're choosing purpose over profit. This isn't the degree for someone uncertain about their calling or hoping ministry might become more lucrative over time.