William Jewell College

The ROI score of -28 suggests that graduates may face challenges in recouping their educational investment through increased earnings compared to the cost and debt incurred.

The median earnings 10 years after entry for William Jewell College graduates are $59,268.

Graduates accrue a median debt of $24,498, and the ROI analysis indicates this debt, combined with tuition costs, may present a financial challenge relative to median earnings.

The graduation rate at William Jewell College is 64.4%.

With an admission rate of 38.4%, William Jewell College demonstrates a degree of selectivity, but it is not among the most highly competitive colleges.

William Jewell College has a selective admission rate of approximately 38.4%, indicating that it is moderately difficult to gain admission. This means that while the college seeks a diverse and capable student body, it does not admit all applicants. To improve your chances, focus on presenting a strong academic profile, including solid grades in challenging courses, competitive standardized test scores (if submitting), and compelling essays that highlight your unique qualities and fit with the college's mission. Extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and strong letters of recommendation can also significantly bolster your application. Demonstrating a genuine interest in William Jewell's liberal arts approach and its specific programs will be crucial. Early application can sometimes provide an advantage. The college values well-rounded individuals who will contribute to its campus community.

The financial worth of William Jewell College is debatable based on current data. The median 10-year earnings of $59,268, coupled with a median debt of $24,498, result in a negative ROI score (-28). This suggests that, on average, graduates take a considerable amount of time to recoup their educational investment. The cost of tuition ($20,610 annually) is significant, and while it offers a private liberal arts education, the post-graduation earnings may not immediately justify the expense for all students. However, 'worth' is subjective. If a student leverages the college's career services effectively, secures high-paying employment in a field aligned with their major, or receives substantial financial aid and scholarships, the value proposition improves. Students considering William Jewell should meticulously research their intended major's earning potential and compare financial aid packages carefully.

While William Jewell College offers a broad liberal arts curriculum, certain majors tend to align well with strong regional employment opportunities and potentially higher earning potentials. Majors within the STEM fields, such as Biology and Chemistry, often lead to careers in the robust healthcare and animal health industries in the Kansas City area (e.g., St. Luke's Health System, Zoetis). Business Administration and Economics programs can prepare students for roles in the finance and corporate sectors, with companies like UMB Financial and Hallmark Cards being significant local employers. Psychology and Education majors can find opportunities within the growing mental health services and school districts in the region. The college's emphasis on critical thinking and communication also benefits students pursuing English, History, or Political Science, who often find success in law, government, or communications roles, though these paths may require further graduate study. It's crucial for students to research specific program outcomes and career paths for any major they consider.

Student life at William Jewell College is characterized by a close-knit, community-focused environment typical of a small liberal arts college. With an enrollment of just over 900 students, there's a strong emphasis on personal connections between students, faculty, and staff. Campus culture encourages engagement through various student organizations, clubs, intramural sports, and Greek life. The college promotes a balance between academic rigor and social activities, with events often organized by student government and campus programming boards. Being located in Liberty, students have access to the amenities of the Kansas City metropolitan area for entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences, while still enjoying a more traditional, contained campus feel. The smaller size fosters a sense of belonging and opportunities for leadership development, as students are more likely to stand out and participate actively.

William Jewell College provides a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of attendance. While specific average aid amounts can fluctuate annually, the college typically offers a combination of merit-based scholarships (often tied to academic achievement) and need-based grants. Many students receive institutional aid, which can significantly reduce the net price of tuition. Federal aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, is also available to eligible students. To understand the extent of aid a student might receive, it's essential to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and any institutional aid applications. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the William Jewell Financial Aid Office directly for personalized information regarding scholarship opportunities, grant availability, and the process for applying for aid. The college aims to make its education accessible, but the net cost after aid is a critical factor for families to evaluate.

The median salary expected after graduating from William Jewell College, based on 10-year median earnings data, is approximately $59,268. However, this figure is an average and actual salaries can vary significantly depending on the student's chosen major, academic performance, internship experiences, and the specific industry and geographic location of employment. For instance, graduates entering fields like healthcare technology or finance in the Kansas City metro area might command higher starting salaries than those entering certain non-profit or education roles. Majors like Biology or Business Administration may lead to higher earning potentials compared to some humanities fields, especially if pursued with further graduate education or specialized certifications. It is crucial for students to research the typical salary ranges for their specific intended career paths and to leverage William Jewell's career services to secure internships and networking opportunities that can lead to better-paying jobs.

William Jewell College offers a variety of on-campus housing options designed to support student life and community building. Traditional residence halls house the majority of undergraduate students, typically featuring double-occupancy rooms with shared common areas and bathrooms. These halls are often organized by class year or specific living-learning communities, fostering a sense of camaraderie. The college also provides suite-style living and apartment-style options for upperclassmen, offering more independence and privacy. All dormitories are generally equipped with basic furnishings, internet access, and common spaces for studying and socializing. Resident Assistants (RAs) are available in each hall to provide support and programming. The focus is on creating a safe, comfortable, and engaging living environment that complements the academic experience, encouraging students to build relationships and feel connected to the campus.

William Jewell College provides opportunities for undergraduate research, particularly within its strong liberal arts framework. While it may not offer the extensive research facilities of a large R1 university, the smaller class sizes and faculty-student ratio facilitate close mentorship, which is crucial for research engagement. Students in science disciplines like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics often have opportunities to participate in faculty-led research projects, potentially leading to presentations at conferences or co-authorship on publications. The college encourages students to pursue independent research projects, often culminating in senior capstone projects or theses. These experiences are valuable for students considering graduate school, as they provide hands-on experience in inquiry, data analysis, and scholarly communication. The emphasis is on providing meaningful research exposure within the undergraduate curriculum.

William Jewell College competes in a similar tier to other private liberal arts colleges in the Midwest, such as Rockhurst University, Park University, and Avila University. Compared to these peers, William Jewell often distinguishes itself with a strong emphasis on its historical liberal arts mission and a potentially more intimate campus community due to its smaller size. Its location in Liberty offers a slightly different suburban feel compared to the more urban settings of some Kansas City-based peers. However, William Jewell's median graduate earnings are lower than some comparable institutions, and its sticker price tuition can be higher than regional public universities, making its value proposition a key point of comparison. While it offers a solid foundation, prospective students should weigh the specific program strengths, campus culture, and financial aid packages against those of its competitors to determine the best fit.

Employers, particularly within the Kansas City metropolitan area, generally hold a positive perception of graduates from William Jewell College. The college's long-standing presence and its emphasis on critical thinking, communication, and a well-rounded liberal arts education are valued attributes. Companies like Cerner (Oracle Health), St. Luke's Health System, and Hallmark Cards, which are significant regional employers, have historically hired William Jewell alumni. Employers often appreciate the preparedness of Jewell graduates for professional environments, stemming from the college's focus on experiential learning, internships, and faculty mentorship. While the 'brand recognition' might not be as widespread nationally as larger universities, within its geographic sphere of influence and in specific industries where its alumni have established strong networks, a degree from William Jewell is respected and seen as a solid foundation for career development.