Pastoral Counseling at Life Pacific University

San Dimas, CA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries
30 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
31
Optimistic
30
Base Case
35
Pessimistic
Earnings $37,436/yr (17% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (21% exposed)
Job Market Large (70,400 openings/yr)
ROI 5.5x earnings multiple
Ranked #6 of 22 Pastoral Counseling programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Life Pacific University's specialized focus in Pastoral Counseling and Specialized Ministries uniquely prepares you for roles blending spiritual guidance with practical support. The program's standing in Southern California's diverse landscape means graduates often find positions within established faith-based organizations, community outreach programs, and educational institutions, which can offer compensation above the national average for these roles. This isn't just about traditional clergy positions; your counseling skills are highly valued in roles supporting youth, families, and community welfare within a faith context. The close-knit nature of LPU likely fosters strong internal networks. To maximize your career trajectory, actively seek internships that bridge the pastoral and counseling aspects, allowing you to explore the breadth of service opportunities available beyond congregational ministry.

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 $450K $451K $431K
Earnings Multiple 5.5x 5.5x 5.3x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 51% 45%
DegreeOutlook Score 31 30 35

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$81,848
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$89,372
-9% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,012
6.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$40,556
8% growth from Year 1

About Life Pacific University

A 94% acceptance rate means Life Pacific University is accessible to most applicants, with a smaller student body of 393 in San Dimas, CA. With 49% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

See all programs and financial aid at Life Pacific 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

Other Majors at Life Pacific 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

How does Life Pacific University's Pastoral Counseling program score?
This program scores 30/100 — 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 →