Atchison, KSprivate nonprofitwww.benedictine.edu/
Benedictine College, a Catholic liberal arts institution in Atchison, Kansas, blends rigorous academics with a tight-knit, faith-driven community. Known for its theology and nursing programs, the college boasts a near-open admissions policy and a graduation rate that outpaces many peers. Its scenic riverfront campus hums with traditional Catholic life—think daily Mass, tight dorm bonds, and a 'work hard, pray hard' ethos.
Benedictine College operates with minimal selectivity, accepting 76-98% of applicants depending on the reporting source—a near-open admissions policy. Admitted students typically present SAT scores between 1110–1330 or ACT scores of 23–30, though Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. policies apply. The Fall 2024 cohort saw 2,715 applicants, with 2,664 accepted and 2,404 enrolled, reflecting a high YieldThe share of admitted students who actually choose to enroll. Colleges watch it closely, which is why some weigh how interested you seem. rate. Notably, the college emphasizes Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone. over cutoffs, prioritizing mission alignment (Catholic/Benedictine values) in its admissions process.
With 50+ undergraduate majors and six master’s programs, Benedictine leans into its Catholic identity through required theology courses and a core curriculum steeped in liberal arts. Standout programs include:
Small class sizes and faculty mentorship define the academic experience—think seminar-style discussions and undergrad research opportunities. The curriculum explicitly ties professional training to ethical formation, echoing the Benedictine motto 'Ora et Labora' (Pray and Work).
Campus life orbits around Catholic traditions: daily Mass, Eucharistic adoration, and student-led rosary groups. Dorms are single-sex with strict visitation hours, fostering what students call a 'chaste but social' atmosphere. Key quirks:
With no Greek life, socializing happens at campus-wide events like 'Late Night Breakfasts' during finals. Atchison’s small-town vibe means students road-trip to Kansas City for big-city thrills.
Benedictine’s 65% six-year graduation rate (2024) outpaces many regional peers, with nursing and business grads seeing particularly strong job placement. Alumni report a $36,427 median salary one year post-graduation, though this lags behind national averages—likely reflecting the high proportion entering lower-paying fields like ministry and education. The college touts a 94% placement rate (employment or grad school) within six months, aided by robust internship pipelines with Catholic dioceses and Midwest healthcare systems.
At $52,340 sticker price (2024), Benedictine isn’t cheap, but 100% of students receive aid, with need-based awards averaging $9,867. The college leverages its Catholic network to offer niche scholarships (e.g., for parish volunteers or children of clergy). A notable perk: the 'Benedictine Promise' guarantees fixed tuition rates for all four years, shielding families from annual hikes. Still, 60% of grads leave with debt, averaging $27,000—on par with private college norms.
Benedictine carves a niche as a unapologetically Catholic liberal arts college where theology majors outnumber engineers and dorm walls bear crucifixes. Its secret sauce? A ‘both-and’ ethos: serious about faith and fun (keg-free but never dull), rigorous academics and warm community. For students seeking a tight-knit, tradition-steeped alternative to secular or Jesuit schools—where Friday night might mean Mass and swing dancing—it’s a rare find. Just don’t expect progressive politics or co-ed dorms.