Median Earnings (1yr)
$34,645
70th percentile
60th percentile in Texas
Median Debt
$27,000
7% above national median

Analysis

Nelson University's Bible/Biblical Studies program achieves something noteworthy: it keeps debt manageable while delivering earnings that exceed most comparable programs. At $27,000 in debt—lower than 75% of similar programs—graduates owe less than eight months of their first-year salary. That's a ratio most parents would gladly accept, especially when first-year earnings of $34,645 already surpass 70% of Bible studies programs nationally.

The trajectory looks solid too. Earnings climb 18% by year four, reaching $40,810, which suggests graduates aren't hitting an immediate ceiling. In Texas specifically, this program sits at the median for both earnings and debt among the handful of schools offering this degree, meaning it represents a fair value for in-state students. The relatively high admission rate and significant Pell population (50%) indicate the program serves students from diverse economic backgrounds without sacrificing outcomes.

The practical reality: this is a degree that leads to ministry, nonprofit, or religious education roles rather than high-paying corporate careers. But within that context, Nelson keeps the financial burden reasonable. For families committed to this educational path, the combination of below-average debt and above-average earnings for the field makes this program a sensible choice. Your child can pursue their calling without drowning in student loans.

Where Nelson University Stands

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

Earnings Distribution

How Nelson University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs Nationally

Bible/Biblical Studies associates's programs at top institutions nationally

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Nelson UniversityWaxahachie$18,610$34,645$40,810$27,0000.78
Colorado Christian UniversityLakewood$39,266$39,106—$40,4751.04
Lancaster Bible CollegeLancaster$29,990$25,662—$20,4530.80
Elim Bible Institute and CollegeLima$10,480$18,339—$11,9980.65
National Median—$30,154—$25,3050.84

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with bible/biblical studies graduates

Philosophy and Religion Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in philosophy, religion, and theology. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Directors, Religious Activities and Education

Coordinate or design programs and conduct outreach to promote the religious education or activities of a denominational group. May provide counseling, guidance, and leadership relative to marital, health, financial, and religious problems.

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 Nelson 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.

Sample Size: Based on 126 graduates with reported earnings and 150 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.