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Pastoral Counseling at Bethel University

Mishawaka, IN · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $31,046/yr (-3% vs median)

AI Risk Moderate (21% exposed)

Job Market Large (70,400 openings/yr)

ROI 3.2x earnings multiple

Ranked #14 of 22 Pastoral Counseling programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Pastoral Counseling graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$421K	$423K	$407K
Earnings Multiple	3.2x	3.2x	3.1x
Probability of Field Employment	52%	51%	45%
DegreeOutlook Score	24	23	31

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)

$133,280

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$78,904

41% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$23,125

8.9 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

Bethel University's Pastoral Counseling program produces graduates earning $31,046/yr — within striking distance of the $31,976 national average for this field.

The 3.2x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.

AI risk is moderate — 21% task exposure — and the 3% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.

The $23,125 debt-to-$31,046 income ratio translates to about 9 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.

At #14 out of 22 programs, Bethel University's financial outcomes for Pastoral Counseling trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.

About Bethel University

A 99% acceptance rate means Bethel University is accessible to most applicants, a compact campus enrolling 1,069 students in Mishawaka, IN. The average net cost of $78,904 over four years represents a 41% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Bethel University →

Top Career Paths

Philosophy and religion teachers, postsecondary $78,050/yr

Clergy $60,820/yr

Community and social service specialists, all other $54,940/yr

View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Pastoral Counseling at Other Schools

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For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Bethel University's Pastoral Counseling program score?

This program scores 23/100 — on the lower end for Pastoral Counseling. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →