Evangel University

Based on the provided data, Evangel University has a negative ROI score, indicating that graduates' median earnings 10 years after entry may not sufficiently cover their median debt, making it a potentially poor financial investment.

The graduation rate at Evangel University is 64.9%.

The median debt for students graduating from Evangel University is $24,736.

Evangel University is considered a small institution with a student body of 1,229 students.

The student body at Evangel University is predominantly white (74.9%), with smaller percentages of Hispanic (5.5%) and Black (4.7%) students.

Evangel University has an acceptance rate of approximately 71.6%, classifying it as a moderately selective institution. This means that while a significant portion of applicants are admitted, meeting the general admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance. Prospective students are typically expected to have a solid academic record, including a high school diploma or GED, and often a minimum GPA. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) may be considered, though Evangel, like many universities, may have test-optional policies. Beyond academic metrics, Evangel also considers the applicant's character and alignment with the university's Christian mission. Applicants are encouraged to submit essays, letters of recommendation, and participate in interviews to demonstrate their commitment. To improve chances of admission, focus on maintaining strong grades, engaging in extracurricular activities, and clearly articulating your personal and academic goals in your application, especially how they align with Evangel's values.

The financial worth of Evangel University is a complex question with a concerning outlook based on available data. The median 10-year earnings for graduates stand at $46,573, which is considerably lower than the annual tuition of $28,548. Graduates also accumulate a median debt of $24,736. This creates a significant financial gap, as it will likely take many years, potentially over a decade, for graduates to earn back the cost of their education, especially when factoring in living expenses and loan interest. The university's ROI score of -59 further underscores this financial challenge, indicating a negative return on investment within the first ten years post-graduation. While Evangel provides a faith-based education and a strong sense of community, which holds intrinsic value for some, the tangible financial benefits appear to lag considerably. Students should carefully weigh the personal and spiritual fulfillment against the substantial financial commitment and long-term debt burden.

While specific 'best' majors are subjective and depend on individual career aspirations, certain programs at Evangel University tend to align well with its mission and regional job market demands. Majors within the College of Education, such as Elementary Education or Special Education, often lead to stable career paths in local school districts. The College of Natural and Applied Sciences offers programs like Nursing or Biology, which feed into the strong healthcare sector in Springfield and beyond, with employers like CoxHealth and Mercy frequently hiring graduates. For those interested in ministry or social services, majors like Biblical Studies, Pastoral Ministry, or Psychology can prepare students for roles within churches, non-profits, or counseling services, leveraging the university's faith-based foundation. Business Administration and Marketing can also be viable, particularly for roles in local businesses or organizations affiliated with the Assemblies of God. It's crucial for students to research specific program outcomes and connect with the career services department to understand the employment landscape for each major.

Student life at Evangel University is characterized by its strong emphasis on Christian community, spiritual development, and a close-knit campus environment. As a private university affiliated with the Assemblies of God, spiritual activities are central, including daily chapel services, small group Bible studies, and opportunities for discipleship and ministry involvement. Social life often revolves around campus events, student organizations, intramural sports, and residence hall activities. Given its size of around 1,200 students, Evangel fosters a sense of belonging where students are likely to know many of their peers. The university encourages involvement in various clubs, from academic societies to service groups and performing arts ensembles. The campus culture is generally described as friendly, supportive, and focused on shared values. While perhaps less diverse in terms of social offerings than a large public university, Evangel provides a structured and faith-centered experience designed to nurture personal growth alongside academic pursuits.

Evangel University provides a range of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of attendance. This includes federal and state grants, institutional scholarships, and student loans. A significant portion of students receive some form of financial assistance. Institutional aid often includes merit-based scholarships awarded for academic achievement, as well as need-based grants. Specific scholarships may be available for students demonstrating leadership, artistic talent, or athletic ability. Given its religious affiliation, there might also be scholarships designated for students pursuing ministry or those from specific denominational backgrounds. To determine eligibility, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and any additional institutional aid applications. While Evangel aims to make education accessible, the median debt of $24,736 suggests that even with aid, a substantial financial commitment is often required. Prospective students should actively research all available aid opportunities and contact the financial aid office early in the application process.

The expected salary after graduating from Evangel University, based on median earnings data, is around $46,573 ten years after enrollment. It's important to note that this is a median figure, meaning half of graduates earn more, and half earn less. Actual salaries can vary significantly depending on the chosen major, career path, geographic location, and individual performance. For instance, graduates entering high-demand fields like nursing or certain areas of business administration might command higher starting salaries, potentially in the $50,000-$65,000 range, especially in competitive markets. Conversely, those entering roles in non-profit organizations or certain ministry positions might have lower starting salaries. Majors that align with the strong local healthcare sector in Springfield, such as nursing or health sciences, likely offer better earning potential than some humanities or ministry-focused degrees. To get a more precise estimate, prospective students should research specific career outcomes for their intended major and consult Evangel's career services for detailed placement and salary data.

Evangel University provides on-campus housing options primarily for its undergraduate students, fostering a communal living experience. The university typically operates several residence halls, often separated by gender. These halls usually offer standard dormitory-style rooms, which may include double occupancy with shared bathrooms on each floor. Amenities commonly found in Evangel dorms include common areas for socializing and studying, laundry facilities, and basic furnishings like a bed, desk, and closet for each student. The university emphasizes creating a safe and supportive living environment, often with resident assistants (RAs) available to help students adjust and address concerns. While specific details about room size, furnishings, or recent renovations can vary, the overall aim is to provide a functional and community-oriented living space that complements the academic and spiritual mission of the university. Students are generally required to live on campus for their first two years.

Evangel University, as a smaller liberal arts institution, offers research opportunities that are typically more focused on undergraduate engagement rather than large-scale, independent graduate-level research. Students in science programs, such as biology or chemistry, may have opportunities to participate in faculty-led research projects, assisting professors with experiments, data collection, and analysis. These experiences can be invaluable for building research skills and preparing for graduate studies. Similarly, students in fields like psychology or education might engage in research related to their coursework or through faculty mentorship. While Evangel may not have the extensive research infrastructure or funding of a major R1 university, it provides a setting where undergraduates can gain hands-on research experience under the guidance of dedicated faculty. The emphasis is often on applied research and projects that contribute to a student's academic development and understanding of their chosen field.

Evangel University is often compared to other private, faith-based liberal arts colleges in the Midwest, such as Drury University (also in Springfield, MO, but non-sectarian), Southwest Baptist University (Bolivar, MO), and William Woods University (Fulton, MO). Compared to Missouri State University, a larger public institution in Springfield, Evangel offers a more intimate, faith-centered environment and smaller class sizes, whereas MSU provides a broader range of programs, more extensive research opportunities, and a larger alumni network. Compared to other private Christian schools, Evangel's specific affiliation with the Assemblies of God distinguishes its religious focus. However, like many smaller private institutions, Evangel may face challenges in terms of median graduate earnings and return on investment compared to larger, more research-intensive universities or those with stronger ties to high-paying industries. Its strengths lie in its community, faith integration, and personalized attention, while potential disadvantages include a narrower scope of programs and potentially lower post-graduation earning potential.

Employer perception of a degree from Evangel University is likely influenced by the specific industry and the individual graduate's performance. For employers within faith-based organizations, educational institutions, and healthcare providers in the Springfield area and the broader Midwest, a degree from Evangel is generally well-regarded, particularly if the graduate demonstrates strong work ethic, character, and alignment with the organization's values. The university's emphasis on community and service can translate into graduates who are seen as reliable and dedicated employees. However, for highly competitive or specialized fields, particularly those concentrated in major metropolitan hubs like tech or finance, the Evangel name might carry less brand recognition compared to degrees from larger, more prominent universities. Employers in these sectors would likely place a greater emphasis on the specific skills, internships, and experiences a graduate possesses rather than the reputation of the institution itself. Overall, Evangel graduates are often valued for their character and commitment, but their career success hinges significantly on their chosen field and demonstrated capabilities.