Tabor College

The data suggests a potentially low return on investment for Tabor College, with median earnings not significantly outpacing the debt incurred. Prospective students should carefully weigh the costs against potential future earnings and consider alternative institutions if financial ROI is a primary concern.

Median earnings 10 years after entry are $54,058. Specific career path data is not provided, but this figure suggests graduates are entering fields that offer moderate earning potential.

Tabor College has an affordability score of 55, which is moderate. However, the high tuition of $36,200 combined with a low graduation rate and negative ROI score indicates that affordability may be a concern for many students.

As a small institution with 494 students, Tabor College likely offers a close-knit community. However, the low graduation rate might indicate challenges within the student experience or academic support systems.

Based on the provided ROI score of -63 and median earnings relative to debt, Tabor College may not be the best choice if a strong financial return on investment is your primary goal.

Tabor College has an acceptance rate of 64.6%, which classifies it as a moderately selective institution. This means that while a significant portion of applicants are admitted, it is not an open-enrollment college. To be a competitive applicant, prospective students should focus on presenting a strong academic profile. This typically includes a solid GPA, with successful applicants often having grades in the B range or higher. Standardized test scores, if submitted, should ideally be at or above the median for admitted students, though Tabor may be test-optional. Beyond academics, demonstrating engagement through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and strong letters of recommendation can significantly bolster an application. The admissions committee likely looks for candidates who align with the college's mission and values, particularly its Christian heritage and commitment to service. Early application can sometimes be advantageous, and prospective students are encouraged to visit the campus, connect with admissions counselors, and thoroughly complete all required application materials to present their best case for admission.

Based on the provided financial data, Tabor College appears to be a questionable investment. The tuition of $36,200 is substantial, and the median 10-year earnings of $54,058 present a significant gap. The ROI score of -63 is a strong indicator that graduates, on average, do not earn enough to justify the cost of their education within a typical timeframe. With median debt at $23,887, a graduate earning $54,058 annually would face a considerable challenge in repaying their loans while covering living expenses. A rough calculation suggests that it could take over 10 years to pay off the debt, assuming a significant portion of income is allocated to loan repayment and factoring in interest. While private colleges often offer unique benefits like smaller class sizes and personalized attention, these advantages do not seem to translate into a strong financial return at Tabor College according to the available metrics. Therefore, prospective students should carefully weigh the potential for higher future earnings, perhaps through graduate studies or specific high-demand career paths not fully captured by the median, against the significant upfront cost and debt burden.

While specific program rankings for Tabor College are not readily available, an analysis of its likely strengths can be inferred from its mission and regional economic needs. Given its location in Kansas, majors related to agriculture, agribusiness, and agricultural science are likely to be strong, offering direct pathways into a dominant regional industry. Similarly, programs in education, particularly elementary and secondary education, often see strong placement in local school districts. Healthcare-related fields, such as nursing or pre-health sciences, are also typically robust at smaller colleges, feeding into the regional healthcare system. Business administration and accounting can provide versatile skills applicable to a wide range of local and regional employers. For students interested in ministry or Christian leadership, Tabor's strong ties to the Mennonite Brethren Church likely make its religion and theology programs particularly well-developed and supported. Prospective students should investigate programs that align with their personal interests and career aspirations, while also considering fields with demonstrated regional demand and potential for higher earning capacity post-graduation.

Student life at Tabor College is shaped by its identity as a small, private, Christian liberal arts college. With an enrollment of around 494 students, the campus environment is intimate, fostering strong relationships among students, faculty, and staff. The college emphasizes a holistic approach to education, integrating faith and learning, which influences the campus culture. Expect a community that values service, spiritual development, and personal growth. Social activities are likely centered around campus events, student organizations, athletic teams (Tabor competes in the NAIA), and church-related activities. Due to the small size, students often have opportunities to take on leadership roles in clubs and organizations. While Hillsboro offers a quiet, small-town setting, students can access larger entertainment and cultural options by traveling to nearby Wichita. The residential experience is a significant part of student life, with most students living on campus, further contributing to the close-knit community feel. The overall atmosphere is likely one of mutual support, shared values, and a focus on developing well-rounded individuals.

Tabor College provides financial aid to a significant portion of its student body, aiming to make its private education more accessible. While specific percentages of students receiving aid and average aid packages can fluctuate annually, prospective students should expect a combination of federal, state, and institutional aid. This typically includes federal grants like the Pell Grant (for students with exceptional financial need), federal loans (Stafford Loans), and work-study opportunities. State aid programs are also available for eligible Kansas residents. Institutional aid from Tabor College often comprises merit-based scholarships (for academic achievement) and need-based grants. Given the sticker price of $36,200, it is crucial for all admitted students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any additional institutional aid applications promptly. Families should actively explore all available options, including scholarships from external organizations, to supplement the aid package offered by the college. It is advisable to contact the Tabor College Financial Aid Office directly for the most current and personalized information regarding aid availability and application procedures.

The median earnings for Tabor College graduates 10 years after enrollment is reported as $54,058. This figure represents the midpoint of earnings for all alumni and serves as a general benchmark. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on the student's chosen major, academic performance, internship experiences, and the specific career path they pursue. For instance, graduates entering high-demand fields like nursing or certain areas of business administration within the Kansas job market might expect to earn at the higher end of this spectrum, potentially exceeding $60,000-$70,000 annually after several years of experience. Conversely, those in fields with lower market demand or in roles with less direct earning potential might find their salaries closer to or even below the median. It is important to note that this median is a 10-year figure, meaning it reflects the earnings of individuals with some career progression. Entry-level salaries will likely be lower. To get a more precise estimate, prospective students should research average starting salaries for specific majors within the Kansas region and consider how Tabor's programs align with those career trajectories.

As a small residential college, Tabor College places a significant emphasis on its on-campus housing. The dorms are designed to foster a close-knit community and provide a supportive living environment for students, the majority of whom live on campus. Tabor typically offers several residence halls, often separated by gender, with varying room configurations. Rooms may be doubles, triples, or quads, providing options for different preferences and budgets. Each residence hall usually includes common areas such as lounges, study rooms, and kitchens, encouraging interaction and providing spaces for academic work and social gatherings. Amenities within the dorms generally include basic furnishings, internet access, and laundry facilities. The RAs (Resident Assistants) play a crucial role in dorm life, organizing activities, providing support, and enforcing community standards. While specific details about the age and modernity of the buildings can vary, the focus is on creating a safe, comfortable, and communal living experience that complements the academic mission of the college.

Tabor College, as a small liberal arts institution, offers research opportunities primarily at the undergraduate level, integrated within coursework and through faculty-mentored projects. While it may not have the extensive research infrastructure or large-scale graduate research programs found at major research universities, Tabor provides a valuable environment for students to engage in scholarly inquiry. Faculty members are often actively involved in their own research and are keen to involve undergraduate students as assistants or collaborators. This can lead to opportunities for students to participate in research projects, present findings at undergraduate research symposia, and potentially co-author publications. The research focus is likely to be concentrated within specific disciplines, such as the sciences (biology, chemistry), social sciences, or humanities, depending on faculty expertise. Students interested in research should proactively seek out faculty members whose work aligns with their interests and inquire about available research opportunities. The intimate setting allows for close mentorship, which can be highly beneficial for developing research skills.

Tabor College is most comparable to other small, private, religiously affiliated liberal arts colleges in Kansas and the surrounding Midwest. Its peers often include institutions like Bethel College, Sterling College, and McPherson College. These schools share a similar commitment to a liberal arts education, often with a Christian foundation, and serve a comparable student population size. A key differentiator for Tabor is its specific affiliation with the Church of God in Christ, which shapes its campus culture and mission. In terms of academic offerings, these peer institutions often have overlapping programs, particularly in education, business, and ministry. However, Tabor's graduation rate (33.3%) is notably lower than many comparable institutions, which might suggest challenges in student retention or academic support compared to its peers. Furthermore, the median earnings reported for Tabor graduates are on the lower end, potentially impacting its value proposition relative to other small private colleges in the region that might yield slightly higher post-graduation financial outcomes.

Employer perception of a degree from Tabor College is likely influenced by its identity as a small, private, religiously affiliated liberal arts institution. Employers in the central Kansas region, particularly those with established relationships with the college or a history of hiring its graduates, probably view Tabor alumni favorably. These employers often value the strong work ethic, community-mindedness, and practical skills that graduates from such institutions tend to possess. The personalized attention and emphasis on character development at Tabor can translate into graduates who are seen as reliable and dedicated employees. However, outside of its immediate regional network, the Tabor College brand may not carry the same level of recognition as larger, more widely known universities. This could mean that graduates seeking employment in highly competitive national markets or in specialized industries might need to more actively demonstrate the value of their education and skills. The key for employers is often the demonstrated competence and character of the individual graduate, which Tabor aims to cultivate.