Theological and Ministerial Studies at Cornerstone University

Grand Rapids, MI · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
33 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
34
Optimistic
33
Base Case
35
Pessimistic
Earnings $40,873/yr (25% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (28% exposed)
Job Market Large (36,100 openings/yr)
ROI 4.1x earnings multiple
Ranked #7 of 28 Theological and Ministerial Studies programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

Cornerstone University's strong performance in Theological and Ministerial Studies highlights its private nonprofit mission and location within Grand Rapids, a region with a vibrant faith-based community. This environment fosters robust local networks, which are crucial for employment opportunities beyond traditional clergy roles. You'll find graduates excelling in leadership positions within parachurch organizations, educational institutions, or social service non-profits where their specialized knowledge is highly valued. The program likely emphasizes practical application and community engagement, preparing you for diverse roles focused on spiritual and ethical leadership. As you consider this path, actively engage with the program's alumni network and local religious organizations from day one; these connections are invaluable for navigating the varied opportunities available, particularly for roles requiring advanced degrees or specialized certifications.

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 $480K $481K $457K
Earnings Multiple 4.1x 4.1x 3.9x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 48% 42%
DegreeOutlook Score 34 33 35

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$116,400
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$89,536
23% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$31,470
9.2 months of Year 1 earnings

About Cornerstone University

A 73% acceptance rate means Cornerstone University is accessible to most applicants, with a smaller student body of 1,387 in Grand Rapids, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at Cornerstone University →

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 Cornerstone University

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 33/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Theological and Ministerial Studies at Cornerstone University?
At 33/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Theological and Ministerial Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is Cornerstone University one of the best schools for Theological and Ministerial Studies?
Among 28 Theological and Ministerial Studies programs, Cornerstone University's #7 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →