Pastoral Counseling at Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries
31 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
31
Optimistic
31
Base Case
37
Pessimistic
Earnings $34,083/yr (7% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (21% exposed)
Job Market Large (70,400 openings/yr)
ROI 6.1x earnings multiple
Ranked #5 of 22 Pastoral Counseling programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

The financial outcomes for this program reflect the compensation structures common in faith-based organizations and specialized ministries, where passion and mission often outweigh purely market-driven salaries. Liberty's expansive network within evangelical churches and parachurch organizations provides a unique pipeline, funneling graduates directly into roles ranging from pastoral care and counseling to youth ministry, missions coordination, or leadership within faith-based non-profits. The "specialized ministries" aspect means you'll develop skills applicable beyond traditional clergy roles, preparing you for diverse community-focused positions. To maximize your prospects, actively leverage Liberty’s extensive connections through internships and practicums; building relationships and clarifying your specific ministry calling early will be crucial for your career trajectory.

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 $523K $522K $493K
Earnings Multiple 6.2x 6.1x 5.8x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 51% 45%
DegreeOutlook Score 31 31 37

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$84,888
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$118,208
-39% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,827
8.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,386
48% growth from Year 1

About Liberty University

Liberty University accepts 99% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, with 50,059 students enrolled in Lynchburg, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Liberty 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 31/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Pastoral Counseling at Liberty University?
At 31/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Pastoral Counseling programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is Liberty University one of the best schools for Pastoral Counseling?
Among 22 Pastoral Counseling programs, Liberty University's #5 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 →