FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does tuition, fees and expenses cost the average student?
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Is it better to give towards the endowment, or should I support the Trinity Fund?
How has the economic downturn affected the seminary?
Like most educational institutions, Trinity suffered a loss in endowment when the stock market dropped in 2008. In November 2007, Trinity’s endowment was at $34 million. As of January 1, 2010, Trinity’s endowment is $24.5 million. To counter this drop, Trinity’s entire community made personal sacrifices. Faculty, staff and administration faithfully committed to taking a 7% salary cut and student tuition was raised for the upcoming year.
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What are the trends in student enrollment?
Enrollment trends have experienced slight decreases overall during the last half of this decade. However, Trinity’s Admissions Department reports that projected enrollment numbers for the upcoming 2010/11 academic year are higher than previous years, with a significant increase in the MDiv program. An increasing number of 20-29 year olds are now enrolling at Trinity.
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What is the student ratio of men to women?
Currently, the male to female student ration is approximately 60% to 40%.
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What are the placement percentages of M.Div. graduates?
An average of 86% of MDiv graduates currently serve in pastoral ministry.
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How much is tuition and fees for the average Trinity student?
The average tuition cost for a full-time student enrolled in the 2010/11 academic year is $13,020. Mandatory fees including campus services and health insurance cost $3,112. Living expenses for a single on-campus student is estimated at $13,297. In total, one year of seminary education before financial aid awards costs approximately: $30,000. see expense breakdown
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Can I give directly to a student?
Yes and No. Trinity Lutheran Seminary encourages everyone to support students from their home congregations, families, regions, etc. However, direct support cannot be claimed as a charitable contribution and would not therefore yield income tax deductions. There are a number of ways to support individual students and still receive all the tax benefits. Investing in an endowed scholarship is one way. Another way is to make a sustainable gift to an annual scholarship.
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Is it better to give towards the endowment, or should I support the Trinity Fund?
The simple answer is, both! The Trinity Fund is our number one priority. This annual fund provides the seminary with its operating budget from year to year. The Trinity Fund ensures that students get the best possible classroom experience and have the administrative and staffing resources they need to master through their on-campus education.
In addition to a sustained annual gift, a one-time gift to the endowment will help secure Trinity’s future. Because of the drop in endowment over the last 2 years it is critical that we continue to grow the endowment. A strong, healthy endowment provides the institution with the money it requires to distribute student financial aid and maintain Trinity’s distinguished faculty.
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