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Donnelly College

Kansas City, KS 66102 — Private Nonprofit

Value Score: 65/100 | ROI Score: -14 | Affordability Score: 90/100

Tuition (In-State): $10,440 | Out-of-State: $10,440

Graduation Rate: 41.8% | Retention Rate: 57.9%

Median Earnings (10yr): $35,715 | Median Debt: $11,842

Student Body Size: 395 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 66.8% | Federal Loan Rate: 35.2%

Average Faculty Salary: $4,489/month

Tuition & Affordability Analysis

In-state tuition at Donnelly College is $10,440 per year, which is 74% below the national average for private institutions.

Out-of-state students pay $10,440/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.

Estimated four-year tuition cost: $41,760 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).

What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income

The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Donnelly College:

  • Families earning $0–$30,000: $10,542/year
  • Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $11,463/year
  • Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $12,484/year
  • Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $12,907/year

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

41.8% of students at Donnelly College complete their degree, 33% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.

First-year retention rate: 57.9% (29% below the national average). A retention rate below 75% suggests some students struggle with fit, academics, or affordability.

Graduates of Donnelly College earn a median salary of $35,715 ten years after enrollment, 13% below the national average. This represents a $715/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $21,450 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.

The median student debt at graduation is $11,842, 45% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $129/month, with a total repayment of $15,480 (including $3,638 in interest).

Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.33x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.

Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Donnelly College pays for itself in approximately 59 years. This is a longer payback period — consider whether your intended major leads to higher-earning career paths.

Financial Aid Profile

66.8% of students at Donnelly College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 102% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.

35.2% of students take federal loans, 25% below the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Average faculty salary: $4,489/month, 49% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Donnelly College enrolls 395 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.

Diversity Index: 66/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 12%, Hispanic 35%, Black 45%, Asian 4%.

Donnelly College: Low Graduation Rate and Median Earnings, High Affordability

Report Card: Overall Grade C

Donnelly College receives an overall grade of C based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: D
  • Value: D
  • Outcomes: C
  • Affordability: A+

College Analysis

Donnelly College is a Private Nonprofit institution in Kansas City, KS with approximately 395 students. Donnelly College has a low graduation rate compared to its peers, indicating potential challenges in academic success. The college's median earnings 10 years post-graduation are below the national average, suggesting limited career outcomes. Donnelly College has a high affordability score, making it a potentially cost-effective choice for students.

The Verdict: Is Donnelly College Worth It?

Donnelly College presents a complex value proposition. With a median 10-year earnings of $35,715 and a median debt of $11,842, the immediate post-graduation financial picture is modest. The ROI score of -14 suggests that, on average, graduates do not recoup their investment quickly compared to national benchmarks. The cost of tuition ($10,440 annually) is relatively low for a private institution, but the median earnings mean a payoff timeline for debt could extend beyond the typical 3-5 years. While the college offers an accessible pathway to higher education, the financial return on investment appears to be a significant concern. It may be a good option for students prioritizing affordability and local employment over high earning potential, but for those focused on maximizing financial returns, it might be overpriced. Recommendation: Consider Donnelly College if affordability and immediate local job placement are your primary goals, but thoroughly research specific program outcomes and potential earning trajectories within your chosen field.

Return on Investment

While Donnelly College is affordable, the low graduation rate and below average median earnings suggest that the degree may not be as valuable as at other institutions.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Donnelly College: $11,842. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $134/month. Total repaid: $16,080 ($4,238 in interest).

Breakeven vs high school diploma: 2.1 years. Debt burden: Low. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $16,080.

Strengths

  • High affordability
  • Diverse student body

Weaknesses

  • Low graduation rate
  • Below average median earnings

Academic Profile

Retention Rate: 57.9%.

Donnelly College distinguishes itself through a commitment to accessible, high-quality education, particularly for students seeking to advance their careers or complete their degrees. While specific departmental strengths are best explored through direct inquiry, the college's focus on associate and bachelor's degrees suggests robust offerings in fields that lead to direct employment or further study. Programs likely emphasize practical application and career readiness. Given the college's size and private nonprofit status, faculty engagement is expected to be high, with a student-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention. While faculty salaries are not publicly detailed, the commitment to student success often translates into dedicated instructors who are accessible outside of traditional office hours. Research opportunities may be more integrated into coursework and capstone projects rather than large-scale independent research labs, aligning with the college's mission. Donnelly likely offers academic support services such as tutoring, writing centers, and academic advising to ensure students have the resources they need to succeed. The emphasis is on providing a supportive academic environment that empowers students to achieve their educational and professional goals, with a curriculum designed to be relevant to the current job market.

Financial Aid Guide for Donnelly College

Pell Grant recipients: 66.8%. Students taking federal loans: 35.2%.

Navigating financial aid at Donnelly College is a crucial step for most students, given its mission to provide accessible education. The college is committed to helping students finance their education through a combination of federal, state, and institutional aid. For the 2023-2024 academic year, tuition and fees stand at $10,440. Donnelly likely offers a range of need-based grants and scholarships, prioritizing students with demonstrated financial need. While specific merit aid availability isn't detailed, it's common for institutions of this type to offer some scholarships based on academic achievement, though need-based aid is often the primary focus. Federal student loans are a significant component of aid packages for many students, and the college actively participates in federal programs. Work-study opportunities may also be available, providing students with on-campus employment to help cover educational expenses. Typical aid packages can vary widely based on individual circumstances, but students from lower-income backgrounds (e.g., Pell Grant eligible) can expect a substantial portion of their costs to be covered by grants and loans. It's highly recommended for prospective students to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to determine eligibility for federal and state aid. Donnelly's financial aid office is a key resource; they can provide personalized guidance on available scholarships, payment plans, and the overall financial aid process. While negotiating aid packages is less common at smaller institutions compared to large universities, a proactive and thorough approach to demonstrating need and eligibility is always advised.

Hidden Costs at Donnelly College

  • Textbooks and course materials can range from $800 to $1,200 per academic year.
  • Student activity fees, often around $100-$200 per semester, support campus events and organizations.
  • Transportation costs, including gas, public transit passes, or parking permits (if applicable), could add $500-$1,500 annually depending on commute.
  • Personal expenses such as toiletries, laundry, and incidental spending might total $1,000-$2,000 per year.
  • Technology fees, sometimes embedded or separate, can be around $50-$100 per semester for computer access and support.
  • Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, could cost upwards of $2,000-$3,000 annually.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Donnelly College, a small private institution in Kansas City, KS, focuses on providing accessible education with a strong emphasis on career readiness. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting from Donnelly is not publicly detailed, its graduates typically find employment within the Kansas City metropolitan area and surrounding regions. The college's programs often align with local industry needs, suggesting alumni may cluster in sectors such as healthcare, education, business, and social services. Given its size and focus, Donnelly may not have extensive graduate school placement rates comparable to larger research universities, but it aims to equip students with the foundational skills for immediate workforce entry or further vocational training. Career services at Donnelly are designed to be personalized, offering resume assistance, interview preparation, and job search guidance. Internship pipelines are likely developed through local partnerships, potentially connecting students with organizations like Saint Luke's Health System, Children's Mercy Kansas City, or various school districts in the region for hands-on experience. Geographic hiring patterns are predominantly local, leveraging the economic landscape of Kansas City, which offers opportunities in sectors like advanced manufacturing, biosciences, and logistics, though Donnelly's direct placement in these specific high-growth areas would depend on program alignment.

Campus Life & Culture at Donnelly College

Donnelly College serves a diverse student body, with a significant portion of its students being first-generation college attendees and from minority backgrounds, reflecting its urban Kansas City, Kansas location. The college thrives on supporting students who are motivated to improve their lives through education, often balancing studies with work and family responsibilities. Students who value a close-knit, supportive community and personalized attention tend to flourish here.

Donnelly College, nestled in the heart of Kansas City, Kansas, offers a distinctly intimate and community-focused campus experience. With an enrollment of around 395 students, the college fosters a close-knit environment where personal connections are paramount. The campus itself is compact, encouraging organic interactions among students, faculty, and staff. Social life here isn't about sprawling quads or massive student unions; it's more about shared experiences within a supportive academic setting. Student organizations, while perhaps not as numerous as at larger institutions, are active and cater to diverse interests, often forming the core of social engagement. Think academic clubs, cultural groups, and service-oriented initiatives that allow students to connect with like-minded peers. Given its size and mission, Donnelly emphasizes a sense of belonging and mutual support. There isn't a traditional Greek life system, which further contributes to a more unified student body. Athletics are not a major focus, with the college prioritizing its academic mission. The 'vibe' is one of earnestness, community, and a shared commitment to personal and academic growth. Students often describe Donnelly as a place where they feel seen and supported, with faculty and staff readily available to offer guidance. The surrounding Kansas City area provides ample opportunities for off-campus exploration, from cultural attractions to dining and entertainment, enriching the student experience beyond the immediate campus borders.

Campus Highlights

  • Intimate class sizes fostering strong student-faculty relationships.
  • A strong sense of community and mutual support among students.
  • Focus on career-oriented programs and direct pathways to employment.
  • Commitment to serving the diverse needs of the Kansas City community.
  • Accessible faculty and staff dedicated to student success.
  • Affordable tuition making higher education attainable.

Location & Regional Advantages

Donnelly College's location in Kansas City, Kansas, offers a strategic advantage for students seeking local career opportunities. The Kansas City metropolitan area boasts a diverse and growing job market, with key industries including healthcare (home to major systems like Saint Luke's Health System and HCA Midwest Health), advanced manufacturing (e.g., Ford, General Motors), biosciences, and a burgeoning tech sector. The cost of living in Kansas City is notably lower than the national average, making the tuition and living expenses more manageable for students and graduates. Proximity to industry hubs is excellent, with numerous corporate headquarters and business parks within easy commuting distance. Quality of life in Kansas City is often cited as a strong point, with a vibrant arts scene, numerous parks, and a growing culinary landscape. While weather includes cold winters and hot summers, it's generally considered moderate. Safety varies by neighborhood, but the college is situated in an area with ongoing revitalization efforts. This location provides a solid foundation for graduates to enter the local workforce, with potential for career advancement within established companies and emerging industries.

How to Get Into Donnelly College

Gaining admission to Donnelly College is generally a straightforward process, reflecting its mission to serve a diverse student population seeking educational advancement. The college emphasizes accessibility and support, meaning the admissions office looks for students who are motivated and have the potential to succeed in their chosen programs. While specific GPA or test score ranges are not published, Donnelly likely has a holistic review process that considers academic background, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. Prospective students should focus on demonstrating their commitment to learning and their reasons for choosing Donnelly. Essays are a valuable opportunity to showcase personality, resilience, and future aspirations. Highlighting any challenges overcome or unique life experiences can be particularly impactful. There isn't a formal Early Decision or Early Action program, so the focus is on submitting a complete application by the stated deadlines, typically in the spring for fall enrollment. Demonstrated interest is often gauged through application completeness, campus visits (if offered), and engagement with the admissions office. The key is to present a clear picture of who you are and why Donnelly is the right fit for your educational journey.

How Donnelly College Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: University of Saint Mary (Leavenworth, KS), Avila University (Kansas City, MO), MidAmerica Nazarene University (Olathe, KS)

Advantages

  • Lower tuition cost compared to some private peers.
  • Stronger focus on accessibility and support services for a diverse student body.
  • Potentially more personalized attention due to smaller class sizes.

Disadvantages

  • Lower median earnings compared to many regional competitors.
  • Lower graduation rate suggests potential challenges in student retention or program completion.
  • Less established reputation and alumni network compared to larger or older institutions.

Best For

  • Students seeking high earning potential and high graduation rates may want to consider other institutions.
  • Prospective students interested in a diverse student body with a significant Black and Hispanic presence may find Donnelly College appealing.

Avoid If

  • Students looking for a high-earning career path may want to explore other options with better outcomes.
  • Those prioritizing high tuition costs may want to reconsider, as Donnelly College's tuition is not significantly lower than its peers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Donnelly College

How much does it cost to attend Donnelly College?

In-state tuition at Donnelly College is $10,440 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $10,440 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $11,842.

What is the graduation rate at Donnelly College?

Donnelly College has a graduation rate of 41.8%.

How much do Donnelly College graduates earn?

The median earnings for Donnelly College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $35,715. With median debt of $11,842, graduates earn roughly 3.0x their debt level annually.

How big is Donnelly College?

Donnelly College has approximately 395 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Kansas City, KS and is a Private Nonprofit institution.

Is Donnelly College worth the cost?

Donnelly College has an ROI score of -14 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $10,440 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $35,715, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.

Where is Donnelly College located?

Donnelly College is located in Kansas City, KS. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 395 students.

How much student debt do Donnelly College graduates have?

The median student debt for Donnelly College graduates is $11,842. With median earnings of $35,715 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 33%.

Is Donnelly College a good college?

Donnelly College has a graduation rate of 41.8% and median post-graduation earnings of $35,715. Donnelly College has a predominantly Black student body, with a significant Hispanic and Asian presence.

How does Donnelly College compare to similar colleges?

The college's tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, indicating a focus on accessibility. Compared to peer institutions, Donnelly College has lower graduation rates and median earnings, but offers high affordability.

What career prospects do Donnelly College graduates have?

Graduates of Donnelly College may find limited career opportunities, but the high affordability could make it a good choice for students prioritizing cost over earnings.

What should prospective students know about Donnelly College?

Donnelly College is positioned as a cost-effective option for students, despite lower academic and career outcomes compared to peers.

What makes Donnelly College stand out?

The college's graduation rate is below the national average for similar institutions.

What are the pros and cons of attending Donnelly College?

Median earnings 10 years post-graduation are lower than the national average for similar institutions.

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.