
The familiar four-year and six-year graduation-rate measures are designed primarily around first-time, full-time undergraduates; they are not a sound measure of completion at a graduate theological school. Starr King reported no first-time degree-seeking undergraduate entrants in the 2024-25 IPEDS figures.
For a more relevant comparison, ask each graduate program for its typical time to degree and how it defines completion. A student's pace can also depend on course load, approved prior credit, and any supervised practice or other degree requirements. Those factors should be considered when comparing a published program length with a personal enrollment plan.
Students should not treat a single salary estimate as the expected return on a Starr King degree. The school prepares people for differing kinds of ministry and community work, where pay can vary substantially by position, employer, location, and hours worked.
When comparing outcomes, look for figures that identify the degree program, graduating group, measurement date, and whether the amount is a median or an average. A one-year earnings figure, for example, would describe earnings at that point - not lifetime income or the salary offered by a particular congregation or organization. Applicants planning for debt repayment may find actual pay ranges for the roles and locations they intend to pursue more useful than a school-wide estimate.
MASTER’S Degree
Theology and Religious Vocations
Data last updated on November 2, 2026
Data sources: IPEDS 2024-25, Peterson 2026, College Scorecard 10/2026, Clery 2024 (2023-24), OpenAlex 2026
Figures on this profile come from federal and third-party datasets in the editions listed above and are refreshed periodically, so they may differ from what the institution currently reports. Confirm costs, deadlines and requirements with the school before making decisions.