Theological and Ministerial Studies at Concordia University-Nebraska

Seward, NE · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
15 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
16
Optimistic
15
Base Case
16
Pessimistic
Earnings $19,316/yr (-41% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (28% exposed)
Job Market Large (36,100 openings/yr)
ROI 3.9x earnings multiple
Ranked #27 of 28 Theological and Ministerial Studies programs

Program Analysis

The financial outcomes you're observing for this program reflect the unique economic realities of theological and ministerial professions. Graduates often pursue vocations within non-profit religious organizations, where compensation prioritizes service and community support over market-driven salaries. These roles, such as clergy or religious workers, frequently offer significant non-financial rewards like spiritual fulfillment and direct community impact, which are not captured in financial data. Many graduates are prepared for specific denominational service, like within the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, where compensation structures are often set by congregations, potentially including benefits like housing rather than higher take-home pay. The regional job market in a smaller community like Seward, Nebraska, further shapes these opportunities, generally not offering the high-paying roles found in larger metropolitan areas or other sectors. If you are deeply called to this path, carefully weigh these intrinsic rewards against your financial expectations, and thoroughly research typical compensation packages and benefits within your intended ministry.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Theological and Ministerial Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $628K $619K $576K
Earnings Multiple 4.0x 3.9x 3.7x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 48% 42%
DegreeOutlook Score 16 15 16

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$157,320
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$96,064
39% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
16.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$52,175
170% growth from Year 1

About Concordia University-Nebraska

With 90% of applicants admitted, Concordia University-Nebraska prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 1,270 students in Seward, NE. Financial aid reduces the effective four-year cost to $96,064 — 39% less than the list price.

See all programs and financial aid at Concordia University-Nebraska →

Top Career Paths

Philosophy and religion teachers, postsecondary $78,050/yr
Clergy $60,820/yr
Religious workers, all other $45,120/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Theological and Ministerial Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at Concordia University-Nebraska

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 15/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Theological and Ministerial Studies at Concordia University-Nebraska?
At 15/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Theological and Ministerial Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Theological and Ministerial Studies degree from Concordia University-Nebraska?
At $27,000 in median debt, graduates carry 17 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is Concordia University-Nebraska a good choice for Theological and Ministerial Studies despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Concordia University-Nebraska's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →