Barclay College

Based on the provided data, Barclay College has a negative ROI score of -63, indicating that graduates' median earnings 10 years after entry do not sufficiently cover their median debt at graduation.

The graduation rate at Barclay College is 43.3%.

The median debt at graduation is $27,000, while the median earnings 10 years after entry are $36,355, resulting in a negative return on investment.

Barclay College has an affordability score of 55, which is moderate. However, the significant debt burden relative to post-graduation earnings should be carefully considered.

Prospective students should be aware of the low graduation rate and the negative ROI, which suggests that the financial benefits of a degree from Barclay College may not outweigh the costs in the long term.

Barclay College has an admission rate of 51.0%, indicating that it is moderately selective. While not as competitive as highly selective institutions, it still requires applicants to meet certain academic standards and demonstrate a good fit with the college's mission. To increase your chances of admission, focus on presenting a strong academic record, including good grades and standardized test scores if required. Highlight any extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or leadership experiences that showcase your commitment and character. A well-written personal essay that articulates your goals and why Barclay College is the right fit for you can also significantly strengthen your application. Ensure all application materials are submitted by the deadlines, and consider visiting the campus to get a feel for the community and potentially connect with admissions staff. The college likely values applicants who align with its Christian heritage and community-focused environment.

Based on available financial data, Barclay College presents a questionable value proposition. The median 10-year earnings for graduates stand at $36,355, while the median student debt is $27,000. This results in a significantly negative ROI score of -63, suggesting that graduates, on average, do not earn enough to offset their educational costs within a reasonable timeframe. The annual tuition of $24,590 is substantial when compared to the median income. Paying off $27,000 in debt could take over a decade, especially after accounting for living expenses. While the college offers a unique, faith-based educational experience and a close-knit community, the financial return is a major concern. Prospective students should carefully weigh the potential career outcomes against the cost. If financial return is a primary consideration, other institutions may offer better value. However, for students with specific vocational goals aligned with Barclay's programs and who can secure substantial financial aid, the value might be perceived differently.

Barclay College offers programs that cater to specific vocational and academic interests, particularly within a Christian framework. While 'best' is subjective and depends on individual career aspirations, programs in areas such as Ministry, Business Administration, and Agriculture often align well with the college's mission and regional opportunities. The Ministry program, for instance, prepares students for leadership roles in churches and religious organizations, a natural fit for the college's identity. Business Administration provides foundational skills applicable to various sectors, including management and entrepreneurship, which can be valuable in small businesses or non-profits. The Agriculture program leverages the college's location in a farming region, offering practical knowledge for careers in agribusiness or farm management. Students considering Barclay should research the specific curriculum, faculty expertise, and potential career pathways for each major to determine which best suits their long-term goals and aligns with the college's strengths.

Student life at Barclay College is characterized by its small size, fostering a close-knit and community-oriented environment. As a Christian college, spiritual development and fellowship are central to the student experience. Expect regular chapel services, Bible studies, and opportunities for involvement in campus ministry activities. Social life tends to be centered around campus events, student organizations, and interactions within the residence halls. Due to the limited number of students, relationships are often deep and personal. Extracurricular activities may include intramural sports, student government, and clubs related to academic programs or student interests. The rural setting of Haviland means that off-campus entertainment options are limited, so the campus community plays a crucial role in providing social engagement. Students seeking a vibrant, large-university social scene might find it lacking, but those who value genuine connections, shared values, and a supportive community will likely thrive.

Barclay College provides financial aid to help students afford their education, primarily through institutional aid such as scholarships and grants, alongside federal and state aid programs. Specific figures on the percentage of students receiving aid or the average aid package are not readily available in summary statistics, but prospective students should expect a combination of need-based and merit-based aid. Institutional scholarships are often tied to academic achievement, leadership, or specific program enrollment (e.g., ministry scholarships). Federal aid, such as Pell Grants and federal student loans, is available to eligible students who complete the FAFSA. State aid programs may also apply depending on the student's residency. It is crucial for applicants to complete the FAFSA early and to contact the Barclay College Financial Aid Office directly to understand the full range of aid options, eligibility requirements, and application processes. Given the tuition cost, maximizing financial aid is essential for most students.

The median earnings for Barclay College graduates 10 years after enrollment is reported as $36,355. This figure represents an average across all programs and should be considered a general benchmark. Actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen major, geographic location of employment, and individual career progression. Graduates from programs like Ministry might find starting salaries in the $30,000-$45,000 range, depending on the size and budget of the employing church or organization. Business graduates might see slightly higher starting points, potentially in the $40,000-$55,000 range, especially if they secure positions in regional businesses or non-profits. Those entering fields like agriculture could see varied incomes tied to market conditions. It's important to note that the median earnings are reported 10 years out, suggesting that initial salaries might be lower. The relatively low median earnings compared to the cost of attendance and debt load are a significant factor in the college's overall financial value.

Dorms at Barclay College are designed to foster a close-knit community atmosphere, reflecting the institution's small size and emphasis on shared living. Typically, students can expect traditional dormitory-style housing, likely with shared rooms and communal bathrooms. The specific configurations might vary, with options potentially including men's and women's residence halls. Given the college's Christian mission, dorm life often includes expectations for conduct that align with the institution's values. Common areas within the dorms likely provide spaces for studying, socializing, and fellowship. While specific amenities like air conditioning or suite-style living might be limited compared to larger universities, the focus is on creating a supportive and communal environment. Students seeking modern, luxurious accommodations might find Barclay's dorms basic, but they serve the purpose of facilitating student interaction and community building within a structured setting.

Barclay College is not primarily known as a research-intensive institution. Its focus is more on providing a strong undergraduate education with an emphasis on practical application and faith-based development. Research opportunities for undergraduates are likely limited and may be integrated into coursework, such as senior capstone projects or independent study under faculty guidance. Given the small faculty-to-student ratio, students who are proactive and express interest in research may find opportunities to work closely with professors on specific projects, particularly within disciplines like ministry, education, or business where applied research is common. However, students seeking extensive, cutting-edge research facilities or opportunities to engage in large-scale, faculty-led research initiatives might find other institutions better suited to their goals. The research undertaken at Barclay is more likely to be focused on practical problem-solving within its core program areas.

Barclay College is a small, private, faith-based institution located in rural Kansas. Similar schools would include other small, private colleges in the Midwest with a similar religious affiliation and focus, such as Sterling College, Friends University, and Bethel College, all also in Kansas. These institutions often share a commitment to liberal arts education within a Christian context. Compared to these peers, Barclay College's primary differentiator is its extremely small student body (168 students), which can lead to even more personalized attention but also a more limited range of academic programs and extracurricular activities. Its graduation rate (43.3%) is notably lower than many comparable institutions, suggesting potential challenges in student retention. Financially, Barclay's median earnings and ROI score are significantly weaker than many of its peers, making it a less attractive option from a purely economic standpoint. While it offers a specific community and value system, its competitive standing is challenged by lower academic outcomes and financial returns.

Employer perception of a degree from Barclay College is likely influenced by the institution's size, location, and specific program strengths. For employers within its niche, particularly churches, non-profit organizations, and small businesses in the Midwest, a Barclay degree may be viewed positively, especially if the graduate demonstrates strong character, work ethic, and alignment with the organization's values. The close-knit community and faith-based foundation can signal desirable traits like integrity and commitment. However, for larger corporations or employers in highly competitive, national markets, the Barclay College name may not carry significant brand recognition. Employers in these sectors might place more emphasis on the specific skills acquired, internship experiences, and graduate-level education rather than the undergraduate institution itself. The lower median earnings reported for Barclay graduates could also indirectly suggest that employers do not consistently perceive a high market value associated with the degree, leading to more modest starting salaries.