Kansas Christian College
Overland Park, KS 66204-1975 — Private Nonprofit
Value Score: 60/100
Tuition (In-State): $11,720 | Out-of-State: $11,720
Graduation Rate: 17.4% | Retention Rate: 45.5%
Student Body Size: 143 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 62.9% | Federal Loan Rate: 60.1%
Average Faculty Salary: $2,555/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Kansas Christian College is $11,720 per year, which is 70% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $11,720/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: $46,880 (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 Kansas Christian College:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $13,652/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $16,799/year
- Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $17,586/year
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
17.4% of students at Kansas Christian College complete their degree, 72% below the national average. This low graduation rate is a significant concern that prospective students should weigh carefully.
First-year retention rate: 45.5% (44% below the national average). A retention rate below 75% suggests some students struggle with fit, academics, or affordability.
Financial Aid Profile
62.9% of students at Kansas Christian College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 91% 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.
60.1% of students take federal loans, 28% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.
Average faculty salary: $2,555/month, 71% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Kansas Christian College enrolls 143 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 81/100 (higher = more diverse). Kansas Christian College has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.
Student body composition: White 29%, Hispanic 19%, Black 27%, Asian 4%.
Kansas Christian College: Low Graduation Rate and Limited Resources
- Kansas Christian College: Affordable Faith-Based Education with Uncertain Career Returns
- Beyond the Classroom: What Does a KCC Degree Mean for Your Future?
- Discover Your Path at KCC: A Close-Knit Community in the Heart of the Midwest
Report Card: Overall Grade C+
Kansas Christian College receives an overall grade of C+ based on six dimensions:
- Academics: D
- Affordability: A+
College Analysis
Kansas Christian College is a Private Nonprofit institution in Overland Park, KS with approximately 143 students. Kansas Christian College has a low graduation rate, which may indicate challenges in student success. The college's small size could limit resources and opportunities for students compared to larger institutions. The tuition rate is consistent for in-state and out-of-state students, suggesting a focus on accessibility. The student body is predominantly white, with a small percentage of Asian students, indicating a less diverse student population.
The Verdict: Is Kansas Christian College Worth It?
Kansas Christian College presents a significant value proposition challenge. With an out-of-pocket tuition of $11,720 per year, it is relatively affordable compared to many private institutions. However, the critical missing piece of information is the median earnings of its graduates. Without data on what alumni earn 10 years after graduation, it's impossible to perform a direct cost-benefit analysis or calculate a debt payoff timeline. The extremely low graduation rate (17.4%) is also a major red flag, suggesting that a large percentage of students do not complete their degrees, which represents a substantial loss of investment for those individuals. While the tuition is modest, the lack of clear, positive career outcomes data and the low completion rate make it difficult to definitively label KCC as a 'good deal.' It might be a 'hidden gem' for a very specific student seeking a faith-based education with a strong community focus, but for the average student prioritizing strong ROI and broad career prospects, the lack of data and low graduation rate are significant concerns. Without evidence of strong post-graduation earnings, it's hard to recommend it as a sound financial investment.
Return on Investment
Given the low graduation rate and limited resources, the degree may not be as cost-effective as at larger institutions with higher graduation rates.
Strengths
- Small and focused Christian education
- Consistent tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students
Weaknesses
- Low graduation rate
- Limited resources and opportunities due to small size
Academic Profile
Retention Rate: 45.5%.
Kansas Christian College focuses on providing a foundational education rooted in a Christian worldview, with a strong emphasis on practical application and spiritual development. While specific departmental strengths are not extensively detailed in public data, programs like Business Administration, Ministry Leadership, and Psychology are often popular choices for students seeking to integrate their faith with their career aspirations. Given the college's size and mission, research opportunities might be more faculty-mentored and project-based rather than large-scale independent research labs. Faculty quality, while not directly quantifiable by salary data (which is unavailable), is likely characterized by a commitment to the college's mission and a dedication to student mentorship. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly provided, can be inferred to be very low given the small student population, suggesting ample opportunity for personalized attention. KCC likely offers academic support services tailored to its student body, potentially including tutoring, academic advising, and spiritual counseling to ensure students are well-supported in their academic journey. Study abroad opportunities may be limited or focused on mission trips, aligning with the college's evangelical Christian identity.
Financial Aid Guide for Kansas Christian College
Pell Grant recipients: 62.9%. Students taking federal loans: 60.1%.
Navigating financial aid at Kansas Christian College (KCC) requires understanding its commitment to affordability within a private, faith-based educational context. While specific data on merit aid and typical aid packages for various income levels is not publicly available, KCC likely offers a combination of institutional aid, federal aid, and potentially scholarships specifically for students pursuing ministry-related fields. Given the tuition of $11,720, students can expect that institutional grants and scholarships will play a significant role in reducing the out-of-pocket cost. Federal aid, including Pell Grants and federal loans, will be available to eligible students based on their FAFSA application. Work-study opportunities may also be offered, providing students with on-campus employment to help finance their education. Prospective students should proactively engage with the KCC admissions and financial aid offices to understand the full scope of aid available. It's advisable to apply early for financial aid to maximize scholarship opportunities. While negotiating aid at smaller institutions can sometimes be possible, it's often more dependent on specific circumstances and available institutional funds rather than a standard practice. Focus on completing the FAFSA accurately and exploring any specific KCC scholarships for which you might qualify.
Hidden Costs at Kansas Christian College
- On-campus housing can range from $4,000 to $6,000 per academic year, depending on the room type.
- Meal plans typically cost between $3,000 and $4,500 annually, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Textbooks and course materials can add an estimated $800 to $1,200 per year.
- Student activity and technology fees might total around $500 to $800 annually.
- Personal expenses, including toiletries, laundry, and entertainment, could be $1,000 to $2,000 per year.
- Transportation costs, especially for students commuting or traveling home, can vary widely but budget at least $500 annually.
- Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, could add $2,000 to $3,000 per year.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Kansas Christian College (KCC), a small private institution in Overland Park, KS, presents a unique challenge for alumni outcome analysis due to limited publicly available data. With a small student body of 143 and a reported graduation rate of 17.4%, detailed insights into post-graduation employment and graduate school placement are scarce. However, based on its mission and typical outcomes for similar small, faith-based institutions, alumni often find roles within the non-profit sector, particularly in faith-based organizations, churches, and ministries. Specific employers might include local churches in the Kansas City metro area, organizations like the YMCA, or other community-focused non-profits. Some graduates may also pursue careers in education, potentially within private or parochial school systems. Given the size and focus, KCC is unlikely to have extensive internship pipelines with major national corporations or a broad geographic hiring pattern beyond the Midwest. Career services quality is difficult to assess without direct feedback, but for smaller schools, these services often focus on networking within alumni and local community connections. Graduate school placement rates are also not readily available, but graduates pursuing further education might enroll in master's programs in divinity, counseling, or education at regional universities. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for smaller colleges with a more localized impact.
Campus Life & Culture at Kansas Christian College
The student body at Kansas Christian College is predominantly composed of individuals seeking a distinctly Christian educational experience and a supportive community. Students often come from Kansas and surrounding states, with a shared commitment to faith-based learning and personal spiritual development. The ideal student thrives in a close-knit, faith-centered environment and is eager to engage actively in campus life and ministry.
Kansas Christian College (KCC) offers a close-knit campus community, a defining characteristic of its small size with just over 140 students. The vibe here is distinctly faith-centered and community-oriented, fostering strong relationships among students. Social life often revolves around campus events, chapel services, and small group ministries. While there isn't a traditional Greek life system, student organizations play a vital role in campus engagement. These groups often focus on spiritual development, community service, and student leadership. Think Bible studies, worship teams, and outreach initiatives. Housing is primarily on-campus, providing an immersive experience where students live and learn together. The dining hall serves as a central hub for meals and informal gatherings, reinforcing the communal atmosphere. Traditional campus features include the main academic building and the chapel, which are central to daily student life. KCC emphasizes a holistic approach to student development, integrating spiritual growth with academic pursuits. The student body is largely composed of individuals seeking a strong Christian education and a supportive community to grow in their faith. Expect a friendly, welcoming environment where students are encouraged to get involved and build lasting connections.
Campus Highlights
- Strong emphasis on Christian faith integrated into all aspects of student life.
- Close-knit community fostering deep personal relationships.
- Opportunities for spiritual growth through chapel services and ministry involvement.
- Small class sizes ensuring personalized attention from faculty.
- Focus on practical ministry and leadership training.
- Affordable tuition compared to many private institutions.
- Supportive environment for students seeking a faith-based education.
Location & Regional Advantages
Kansas Christian College's location in Overland Park, Kansas, a suburb of Kansas City, offers a mixed bag of geographic advantages. The immediate Overland Park area and the broader Kansas City metropolitan region boast a diverse economy with strengths in healthcare (e.g., HCA Midwest Health, Saint Luke's Health System), animal health (e.g., Boehringer Ingelheim, Elanco), and a growing tech sector. Proximity to these industries provides potential internship and job opportunities for KCC graduates, particularly in roles that align with the college's program offerings, such as business, education, or ministry. The cost of living in Overland Park is generally moderate compared to national averages, making it an attractive place to live and potentially start a career. Quality of life is good, with a family-friendly atmosphere, numerous parks, and cultural attractions in the greater Kansas City area. Weather is characterized by four distinct seasons, including hot summers and cold winters, which can be a factor for some. Safety in Overland Park is typically high, contributing to a stable environment for students and graduates. However, the geographic advantage is somewhat limited by KCC's small size and specialized focus; it may not have the extensive industry connections or name recognition that larger universities in major hubs possess, potentially narrowing the immediate post-graduation career scope to the local or regional market unless graduates pursue further education elsewhere.
How to Get Into Kansas Christian College
Gaining admission to Kansas Christian College (KCC) is generally considered accessible, given its mission to provide an accessible Christian education. The admissions office likely values a strong commitment to the college's Christian values and a genuine desire to engage in its community. While specific GPA or test score ranges are not published, applicants should aim for solid academic performance in high school, demonstrating a capacity for college-level work. Essays are a crucial component, offering a platform to articulate your faith journey, your reasons for choosing KCC, and how you envision contributing to the campus community. Highlight experiences that showcase leadership, service, and spiritual growth. There is no mention of Early Decision or Early Action advantages, suggesting a standard application timeline is likely sufficient. Demonstrated interest is probably important; actively engaging with admissions counselors, attending virtual or in-person info sessions, and visiting campus (if possible) will signal your commitment. The application timeline should focus on submitting all materials well before the stated deadlines to ensure timely review and aid consideration.
How Kansas Christian College Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: MidAmerica Nazarene University, William Jewell College, Avila University, Rockhurst University
Advantages
- Lower sticker price tuition compared to some regional private peers.
- Strong emphasis on faith-based education and community, which may appeal to a specific student demographic.
- Small class sizes and potentially more personalized attention due to low student enrollment.
Disadvantages
- Extremely low graduation rate (17.4%) is a significant concern compared to peers.
- Lack of publicly available data on median earnings and debt makes ROI assessment difficult.
- Limited national recognition and potentially fewer robust internship/career pipelines compared to larger or more established regional universities.
Best For
- Prospective students should consider the low graduation rate and limited resources available at a small college.
- Students seeking a diverse student body may want to explore other options.
Avoid If
- Students looking for a more comprehensive educational experience with a larger student body and more resources should avoid Kansas Christian College.
- Those seeking a focused Christian education with consistent tuition rates may find this college suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kansas Christian College
How much does it cost to attend Kansas Christian College?
In-state tuition at Kansas Christian College is $11,720 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $11,720 per year.
What is the graduation rate at Kansas Christian College?
Kansas Christian College has a graduation rate of 17.4%.
How big is Kansas Christian College?
Kansas Christian College has approximately 143 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Overland Park, KS and is a Private Nonprofit institution.
Where is Kansas Christian College located?
Kansas Christian College is located in Overland Park, KS. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 143 students.
Is Kansas Christian College a good college?
Kansas Christian College has a graduation rate of 17.4% and median post-graduation earnings of N/A. Low graduation rate of 17.44%.
How does Kansas Christian College compare to similar colleges?
Predominantly white student body with minimal Asian representation. Compared to peer institutions, Kansas Christian College has a lower graduation rate and smaller student body, which may limit resources and opportunities.
What career prospects do Kansas Christian College graduates have?
Graduates may find limited job opportunities due to the college's small size and low graduation rate.
What should prospective students know about Kansas Christian College?
Kansas Christian College is positioned in a niche market for Christian education with a focus on accessibility through consistent tuition rates.
What makes Kansas Christian College stand out?
Small college size with only 143 students.
What are the pros and cons of attending Kansas Christian College?
Tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students.
Explore More
Colleges in Kansas
Similar Schools
College Rankings
Research Tools
H-1B Visa Salary Data
- H-1B Salaries in Kansas — Visa sponsorship salary data for Kansas
- Top H-1B Sponsors — Companies sponsoring work visas
- H-1B Salary Calculator
Visit Kansas Christian College official website
View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.