Benedictine College

Based on the provided data, Benedictine College has a negative ROI score of -63, suggesting that the median earnings after graduation may not sufficiently cover the cost of attendance and associated debt.

Graduates of Benedictine College earn a median of $53,175 ten years after entry, which is a key factor in assessing the value of their degree.

Further comparative data would be needed to definitively assess Benedictine College's standing among Kansas private institutions, but its ROI score and tuition are important considerations.

Benedictine College offers a medium-sized campus experience with a strong Catholic identity, fostering a close-knit community for its 2,272 students.

The high tuition of $36,350 coupled with a median 10-year earning of $53,175 and a negative ROI score raises questions about whether the degree is fully justified by the financial outcomes.

Benedictine College has a very high acceptance rate of 98.1%, indicating that it is not highly selective. This means that the vast majority of students who apply are admitted, making it relatively easy to gain admission. The college focuses on providing access to its educational programs rather than stringent selection. While the academic bar for admission is not high, prospective students should still aim to present a solid academic record, including good grades and a strong college preparatory curriculum, to ensure they are well-prepared for the academic rigor of college-level coursework. Demonstrating an interest in the college's mission and values can also be beneficial. The high acceptance rate suggests that Benedictine College prioritizes enrollment and serving a broader student population rather than competing for a small cohort of top-tier applicants.

Benedictine College's value proposition is questionable based on financial metrics. The tuition is $36,350, and the median 10-year earnings are $53,175, with median debt at $24,599. This results in a negative ROI score of -63. To put it in perspective, a graduate earning the median salary would need to dedicate roughly 4.5 years of their post-tax income to pay off the median debt, assuming a conservative savings approach. This is a considerable amount of time. While the college offers a strong community and a specific educational philosophy, the financial return on investment is not compelling. Prospective students should carefully consider their career aspirations and earning potential in their chosen field. If a high-paying career is not a likely outcome, or if significant scholarships are not available, the financial burden may outweigh the benefits. It is not a clear 'good deal' and requires careful financial planning.

While Benedictine College offers a range of strong liberal arts programs, identifying 'best' majors depends on career goals and earning potential. Historically, strong performance in fields like nursing, education, and business administration often leads to stable employment. For instance, a nursing degree from Benedictine could lead to positions within regional healthcare systems like Mosaic Life Care or HCA Midwest Health. Business majors might find opportunities in the Kansas City metro area with companies like Cerner (Oracle Health) or local financial institutions. Pre-professional programs, such as pre-med or pre-law, are also valuable if they lead to successful graduate school placement. Students interested in education can find roles in local and regional school districts. It's crucial for students to research specific program outcomes and connect with career services to understand the job market for their intended major. Majors with direct vocational application or strong graduate school pathways tend to offer clearer career trajectories.

Student life at Benedictine College is characterized by a strong emphasis on its Catholic identity, community, and a traditional college experience. The campus culture is deeply rooted in its Benedictine heritage, fostering a sense of shared values and spiritual engagement. Expect a close-knit community where students often know each other, facilitated by smaller class sizes and a residential campus environment. Social life often revolves around campus events, student organizations, intramural sports, and spiritual activities. The college encourages participation in clubs, student government, and the arts. While Atchison is a small town, the college provides a vibrant internal social scene. For those seeking a more diverse urban experience, the proximity to Kansas City offers weekend opportunities for entertainment, dining, and cultural events. Overall, Benedictine offers a focused, community-oriented, and faith-integrated student experience.

Benedictine College provides a significant amount of financial aid to its students, with a reported 99% of freshmen receiving some form of aid. This aid typically comes in the form of merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and federal/state aid programs. While the average financial aid package is substantial, it's crucial to understand that the sticker price of $36,350 is high, and even with aid, the net cost can still be considerable. Prospective students should diligently complete the FAFSA and any institutional aid applications to determine their eligibility. Merit scholarships are often awarded based on academic achievement (GPA, test scores), while need-based aid considers family income and assets. It's recommended to contact the Benedictine College Financial Aid Office directly for personalized information regarding specific aid packages, scholarship opportunities, and the process for applying for aid to understand the true out-of-pocket cost.

The median salary for Benedictine College graduates 10 years after enrollment is reported as $53,175. However, this is a broad average and actual earnings can vary significantly by major. For instance, graduates in fields like nursing or certain business specializations may command higher starting salaries, potentially in the $60,000-$70,000 range, especially if they secure positions in the Kansas City metro area with employers like HCA Midwest Health or Cerner (Oracle Health). Conversely, graduates in humanities or social sciences might find their initial salaries closer to the national average for those fields, which could be lower. The median debt of $24,599 suggests that while earnings are modest, they are generally sufficient to manage this level of debt over time, though it will require careful budgeting. It's essential for prospective students to research specific salary data for their intended major and to leverage Benedictine's career services for internship and job placement assistance to maximize earning potential.

Benedictine College provides a traditional residential experience with on-campus housing options for students. The dormitories are generally well-maintained and foster a sense of community. Male and female students reside in separate halls, with resident assistants (RAs) providing support and oversight. Typical dorm rooms house two students, furnished with basic essentials like beds, desks, and closets. Common areas within the dorms often include lounges for studying and socializing, as well as shared bathrooms. While specific amenities can vary by hall, the focus is on providing a safe, comfortable, and communal living environment conducive to academic success and social integration. The college encourages underclassmen to live on campus to fully immerse themselves in the Benedictine community. Information on specific residence halls, room layouts, and furnishing details can be found on the Benedictine College housing website.

Benedictine College, as a private liberal arts institution, offers research opportunities primarily focused on undergraduate engagement rather than large-scale, faculty-driven research typical of major research universities. Students can engage in research projects within their specific academic departments, often working closely with faculty mentors. These opportunities might involve literature reviews, data analysis, or assisting professors with their ongoing scholarly work. For example, science majors might participate in lab research, while humanities students could undertake archival research. The college emphasizes undergraduate research through avenues like student symposia or departmental honors projects. While Benedictine may not have the extensive research infrastructure of larger universities, it provides a valuable setting for students to develop research skills, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of their chosen fields under faculty guidance, preparing them for graduate studies or research-oriented careers.

Benedictine College is often compared to other small to mid-sized private Catholic liberal arts colleges in the Midwest. Realistic peers include institutions like Rockhurst University (MO), University of St. Thomas (MN), and Creighton University (NE), though these often have higher national rankings and stronger financial profiles. Benedictine's key advantages over some peers include its lower cost of living in Atchison compared to urban campuses and a potentially more intense focus on its specific Catholic identity and Benedictine tradition. However, disadvantages are notable: Benedictine's median graduate earnings are significantly lower than many of its peers, and its graduation rate (63.1%) is also lower than many comparable institutions, suggesting potential challenges in student retention or academic success. Furthermore, larger universities like Creighton or St. Thomas often boast more extensive alumni networks, broader internship opportunities, and stronger national recognition, which can translate into better career outcomes.

Employers generally view degrees from Benedictine College positively, particularly within the Midwest and in sectors that value a strong liberal arts foundation and ethical grounding. The college's emphasis on character development, critical thinking, and communication skills is often appreciated by employers. Graduates are frequently found in roles within education, healthcare (e.g., Mosaic Life Care, HCA Midwest Health), business, and non-profit organizations in the Kansas City area and surrounding regions. While Benedictine may not have the widespread name recognition of larger, more prestigious universities nationally, its alumni network, particularly within Kansas and Missouri, is often loyal and supportive. Employers who hire Benedictine graduates often comment on their strong work ethic and preparedness for entry-level professional roles. The perception is that while the immediate earning potential might not be as high as some other institutions, Benedictine provides a solid, values-based education that prepares students for long-term career success and civic engagement.