Criswell College logo

Criswell College

Dallas, TX Private ยท Urban www.criswell.edu
Accept Rate
91.67%
Grad Rate
58.7%
Enrollment
118
Avg SAT
1120
Tuition
$14,310
Median Salary
$43,185
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
B
Value
C
Admissions
B
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Criswell College offers an intimate and focused academic environment, with a very small student body that fosters close-knit community and mentorship. It feels like a specialized hub for theological and ministerial training, set within the bustling urban landscape of Dallas.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

91.67%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

SAT data not available

Average: 1120

ACT Score Range

ACT data not available

Admissions Tips

As a theological institution, applicants should clearly articulate their faith journey and ministry calling in their personal statement. Given the high acceptance rate, ensure your academic records and references reflect a genuine commitment to the college's mission. Since the enrollment is very small, reaching out directly to an admissions counselor can make a significant difference.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1120
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

The college is a powerhouse for theological studies, offering rigorous programs that integrate faith with academic inquiry. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students receive personalized attention and mentorship from experienced scholars and practitioners. While research opportunities are tailored towards ministry and theology, the urban setting provides access to a wide network of churches and non-profits for practical application.

Popular Majors

Theology
75%
Multidisciplinary Studies
12.5%
Psychology
4.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

58.7%
Graduation Rate
63.6%
Retention Rate
118
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$14,310
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$12,929
After financial aid
Total Cost
$26,555
Cost of attendance/year
34.4%
Receive Pell Grants
23.8%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Dallas

Students in Dallas have endless options for entertainment, from exploring the Arts District and catching Mavericks or Cowboys games to enjoying diverse culinary scenes in Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts. The city's extensive park system, including the nearby Katy Trail, offers great outdoor recreation. Being in a major city also means abundant internship and networking opportunities beyond campus.

Local Rent Check

$1,500 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Dallas
Explore Dallas

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$57,240
$0Est. 4 Years: $57,240

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($43,185):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is located in the Oak Lawn neighborhood, which is generally considered a safe and vibrant area of Dallas. The college provides a secure urban environment, but standard city precautions are advised for students navigating the surrounding metropolitan area.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Extremely affordable tuition for a private college.
  • โœ“ Intimate class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty.
  • โœ“ Strong focus and reputation in theological and ministerial training.
  • โœ“ Location in Dallas provides access to a major metropolitan hub.

Cons

  • โœ— Limited academic offerings outside of theology and related fields.
  • โœ— Very small campus life may not appeal to students seeking a large university experience.
  • โœ— Graduation and retention rates are below the national average.

Notable Alumni

Dr. David L. Allen
Renowned theologian and Dean of the School of Theology at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Dr. Steve Gaines
Former President of the Southern Baptist Convention and senior pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church.
Dr. Jim Richards
Executive Director of the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Criswell College is primarily known for its rigorous theological education, offering degrees ranging from Master of Divinity to Doctor of Ministry. It is recognized for its commitment to training pastors, ministers, and Christian educators with a strong biblical foundation.

No, Criswell College has a very high acceptance rate of 91.67%, indicating a less selective admissions process. The college focuses more on an applicant's commitment to theological study and ministry calling than on highly competitive academic metrics.

Campus life is highly focused and community-oriented due to the very small enrollment of 118 students. Students are deeply engaged in theological studies and ministry preparation, with a close-knit environment that fosters strong relationships with peers and faculty. Social life is centered around faith-based activities and the broader Dallas community.

Yes, for students pursuing a career in ministry or theology, Criswell College offers exceptional value. With an average net price under $13,000, it provides a specialized, private education with minimal debt, making the return on investment very favorable for its intended career path.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Southern Baptist Convention Texas Baptist Ministries Local Dallas-Fort Worth churches Christian non-profit organizations Private religious schools
Smart Start Score
51

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 135
  • In-State Tuition $14,310
  • Zip Code 75246

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 55.1% โ™€ 44.9%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $12,929 and tuition rates well below the national average for private institutions, Criswell College offers a high-value education, especially for those entering the ministry field. While the 10-year median earnings of $43,185 are modest, the low debt burden makes it a financially sound choice for students pursuing their calling. The investment is particularly worthwhile for those seeking a focused, faith-based education without incurring significant debt.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $14,310
Housing (12 mo) $18,000
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $39,510
With avg financial aid:
$12,929/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.