| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location:
Lebanon, Illinois, USA (20 minutes from downtown St. Louis, Missouri).
Type:
Private, non-profit university.
Motto:
Artium Morum et Religionis Disciplina (The Training of the Mind, Morals, and Religion).
Accreditation:
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Enrollment:
Approximately 2,000 students, including undergraduate, graduate, and online students.
Campus Size:
235-acre residential campus.
McKendree University offers undergraduate, graduate, and online programs in various disciplines, focusing on career readiness and lifelong learning.
The university offers over 50 undergraduate majors and pre-professional programs. Some of the most popular areas of study include:
Business Administration
Nursing (BSN)
Psychology
Education
Athletic Training and Sports Performance
Computer Science
Biology
Criminal Justice
Communication Studies
McKendree offers graduate-level programs tailored to working professionals:
Master of Business Administration (MBA) (available online and on-campus)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Master of Arts in Education (MAED)
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership
McKendree University is recognized for its strong online degree programs, which allow students to earn their degrees flexibly. Available programs include business, nursing, education, psychology, and more.
McKendree's main campus in Lebanon, Illinois, provides a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities:
Holman Library: Houses extensive resources, including online databases and study areas.
The Hettenhausen Center for the Arts ("The Hett"): A cultural hub for arts performances, lectures, and events.
The Sports Complex: Home to the McKendree Bearcats athletic teams, including facilities for football, basketball, soccer, and other sports.
State-of-the-Art Labs: For STEM students, particularly in biology and nursing.
McKendree University provides a vibrant student life experience, with various opportunities for personal growth and involvement.
Clubs and Organizations
The university hosts more than 60 student organizations, including:
Academic clubs (e.g., Pre-Law Club, Math Club)
Leadership programs
Cultural and diversity-focused organizations
Performing arts groups
Athletics
McKendree University's athletic teams, known as the Bearcats, compete in the NCAA Division II and the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC).
Sports include football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, swimming, and eSports.
Housing
McKendree offers on-campus housing options, including residence halls, apartments, and suites.
Housing options are designed to foster a strong sense of community.
Cultural and Community Engagement
The university hosts events such as film festivals, speaker series, and theater performances.
Students also participate in community service projects and internships.
Estimated Tuition and Fees (2024-2025)
Undergraduate Tuition: Approximately $33,430 per year.
Graduate Tuition: Varies by program (average of $460-$550 per credit hour for most programs).
Room and Board: Approximately $10,000 per year.
Financial Aid
McKendree University offers financial aid packages, including:
Merit-based scholarships
Need-based grants
Federal and state financial aid
Athletic scholarships
Work-study opportunities
Scholarships for International Students
McKendree offers competitive scholarships for international students based on academic performance and leadership.
McKendree University is a welcoming institution for international students. The university provides:
Dedicated International Student Services, including assistance with visas and cultural adjustment.
English language support for non-native speakers.
Opportunities to participate in campus organizations and cultural exchange programs.
The Career Services Center at McKendree helps students with:
Career counseling and resume writing
Internship and job placement
Networking opportunities
Graduate school preparation
McKendree graduates are highly regarded by employers, and many pursue successful careers in fields such as business, healthcare, education, and technology.
McKendree alumni include professionals in various fields, such as:
Business leaders
Educators and academic leaders
Healthcare professionals
Artists and performers
Government and community leaders
McKendree University offers over 50 undergraduate majors and pre-professional programs designed to prepare students for their careers or further education. Below are the popular fields of study:
Accounting (BBA)
Business Administration (BBA)
Specializations: Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management, and more.
Economics and Finance (BBA)
International Business (BBA)
Elementary Education (BA/BS)
Secondary Education (BA/BS)
Subjects: Math, Biology, English, History, and more.
Special Education (BS)
Physical Education (BS)
Nursing (BSN)
Traditional, Accelerated, and RN-to-BSN options.
Athletic Training (BS)
Exercise Science and Sports Performance (BS)
Biology (BS)
Pre-Medical, Pre-Dental, and Pre-Veterinary Tracks.
Chemistry (BS)
Computer Science (BS)
Mathematics (BS)
Art (BA)
Studio Art, Graphic Design, and Art Education Tracks.
English (BA)
Music (BA/BM)
Performance, Music Education, and Composition Tracks.
Philosophy (BA)
Theatre Arts (BA)
Criminal Justice (BA)
Political Science (BA)
Psychology (BA/BS)
Sociology (BA)
Social Work (BSW)
Pre-Medical
Pre-Law
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Dental
Pre-Engineering
McKendree University provides master's and doctoral programs tailored for working professionals and those seeking advanced academic qualifications. Below are the popular graduate programs:
School of Business
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Available fully online and on-campus.
Specializations: Digital Marketing, Corporate Strategy, and Human Resource Management.
School of Nursing and Health Professions
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Specializations: Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP).
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Advanced practice for nurses in leadership roles.
School of Education
Master of Arts in Education (MAED)
Specializations: Curriculum Design, Educational Leadership, and Special Education.
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership
Focused on preparing leaders for education, business, and non-profits.
School of Social Sciences
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ)
McKendree University is highly regarded for its online degree programs, offering flexibility for working professionals, international students, and non-traditional learners.
Undergraduate Online Programs
Business Administration (BBA)
Psychology (BA)
Nursing (RN-to-BSN)
Criminal Justice (BA)
Sociology (BA)
Graduate Online Programs
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Master of Arts in Education (MAED)
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting (BBA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Business Administration (BBA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Economics and Finance (BBA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
International Business (BBA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Elementary Education (BA/BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Secondary Education (BA/BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Special Education (BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Physical Education (BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Athletic Training (BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Exercise Science and Sports Performance (BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Biology (BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Chemistry (BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Computer Science (BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Mathematics (BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Art (BA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
English (BA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Music (BA/BM) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Philosophy (BA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Theatre Arts (BA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Criminal Justice (BA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Political Science (BA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Psychology (BA/BS) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Sociology (BA) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
|
Social Work (BSW) |
4 Years |
$33,430 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
1.5 - 2 Years |
$15,180 (Online or On-Campus) |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 Years |
$15,660 (Online) |
|
- Nurse Educator Track |
|
|
|
- Nurse Administrator Track |
|
|
|
- Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Track |
|
|
|
Master of Arts in Education (MAED) |
1.5 - 2 Years |
$15,180 (Online or On-Campus) |
|
- Curriculum Design |
|
|
|
- Educational Leadership |
|
|
|
- Special Education |
|
|
|
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) |
1.5 - 2 Years |
$15,180 (Online or On-Campus) |
|
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (MACJ) |
1.5 - 2 Years |
$15,180 (Online) |
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership |
3 Years |
$16,200 (Online or Hybrid) |
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
2-3 Years |
$15,660 (Online) |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Leadership |
3 Years |
$16,200 (Online or Hybrid) |
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
2-3 Years |
$15,660 (Online) |
Affordable Tuition and Scholarships:
McKendree University is known for its affordable tuition fees compared to other private universities in the U.S.
Generous scholarships for international students (up to $18,000 per year) make it an attractive choice for students looking for cost-effective education.
Diverse Student Body:
Students from 40+ countries study at McKendree, contributing to a culturally diverse and inclusive campus.
Small Class Sizes:
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, international students receive personalized attention and support from professors.
Proximity to St. Louis:
The campus is just 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis, Missouri, providing access to internships, job opportunities, and cultural experiences.
Dedicated International Support Services:
The Office of International Student Services (ISS) assists with visa processing, cultural adjustment, academic advising, and more.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT):
International students are eligible to work in the U.S. through OPT and CPT programs, gaining valuable work experience while studying or after graduation.
McKendree University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs that attract international students. Popular programs include:
Business Administration (BBA & MBA)
Computer Science (BS)
Nursing (BSN & MSN)
Psychology (BA/BS)
Education (BA/MAED/Ed.D.)
Criminal Justice (BA & MACJ)
Biology (BS) (Pre-Med and Pre-Pharmacy tracks)
The university also offers online degree programs, providing additional flexibility for students worldwide.
Application Form:
Complete the online application via the.
No application fee for international students.
Academic Records:
Submit official high school transcripts (in English or accompanied by certified translations).
A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is required.
English Language Proficiency:
Submit one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (internet-based).
IELTS: Minimum band score of 6.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 100.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53.
Students who do not meet the English proficiency requirements may be admitted conditionally and required to take ESL (English as a Second Language) support courses.
Financial Documentation:
Submit a bank statement or affidavit of support showing the ability to cover tuition and living expenses for one academic year (approximately $45,000, including tuition and fees).
Copy of Passport:
Submit a clear copy of the passport identification page.
Application Form:
Submit the online application via the McKendree website.
No application fee for international students.
Academic Records:
Provide official transcripts from a bachelor's degree program equivalent to a U.S. degree.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is generally required.
English Language Proficiency:
Same requirements as undergraduate students.
Program-Specific Requirements:
MBA, MSN, and other graduate programs may require additional documents such as:
Resume/CV.
Statement of Purpose.
Letters of Recommendation (2-3).
Check specific requirements for the desired program.
Financial Documentation:
Provide proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses for one academic year.
Copy of Passport:
A valid passport must be submitted.
1. Submit the Online Application
Complete the free online application through the.
No application fee is required for undergraduate applications.
2. Submit Academic Transcripts
Provide official high school transcripts or equivalent (such as GED scores).
For transfer students: Submit transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
International students: Transcripts must be in English or accompanied by certified translations. Some may require a credential evaluation by agencies like WES or ECE.
3. Test Scores (Optional)
McKendree University is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission.
However, students may submit scores for additional scholarship consideration:
SAT: School code 1456
ACT: School code 1080
4. Proof of English Proficiency (For International Students)
Non-native English speakers must submit one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum band score of 6.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 100
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53
Students who do not meet the proficiency requirements may be offered conditional admission with enrollment in English as a Second Language (ESL) courses.
5. Provide Financial Documentation (For International Students)
Submit proof of financial ability to cover tuition, living expenses, and other fees for one academic year (approximately $45,000).
Documents may include:
Bank statements.
Affidavit of financial support (if sponsored).
6. Submit Additional Documents (If Required)
Copy of passport (for international students).
Personal statement or letters of recommendation (optional but encouraged for scholarship consideration).
7. Receive Admission Decision
Once all required documents are submitted, the university reviews applications.
Decisions are typically made within 2-4 weeks.
International students will also receive an I-20 form for the F-1 Student Visa application upon acceptance and financial documentation approval.
1. Submit the Online Application
Complete the graduate application through the.
No application fee is required for graduate applications.
2. Submit Academic Transcripts
Provide official transcripts from an accredited institution showing completion of a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
International students must submit transcripts in English or with certified translations. Credential evaluations may be required for international transcripts (e.g., WES, ECE).
3. Proof of English Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum band score of 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58
4. Submit Program-Specific Requirements
Depending on the graduate program, students may need to provide:
Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) (for MBA, MSN, DNP, and Ed.D. programs).
Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement outlining academic and career goals.
Letters of Recommendation (1-3, depending on the program).
Additional documents, such as a portfolio or professional certifications (if required).
5. Provide Financial Documentation (For International Students)
International applicants must submit a bank statement or sponsor affidavit to demonstrate the ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
6. Receive Admission Decision
Admission decisions are typically made within 3-6 weeks of receiving the completed application.
McKendree University offers admissions during the following intakes:
Intake |
Application Deadline (International Students) |
Program Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
July 1 |
August (Late August) |
|
Spring Semester |
November 1 |
January (Mid-January) |
|
Summer Semester |
March 1 (Limited Availability) |
May (Late May or Early June) |
Rolling Admissions: McKendree University operates on a rolling admissions basis, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. However, international students should adhere to the deadlines to allow time for visa processing.
To be eligible for an undergraduate program at McKendree University, students must meet the following requirements:
Completion of high school or equivalent (such as GED).
Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
International students must submit official high school transcripts in English or with certified translations.
Transfer students must provide transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following tests:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 100.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 53.
Students who do not meet these requirements may be admitted conditionally and required to complete ESL (English as a Second Language) courses.
Copy of passport (for international students).
Financial documentation showing the ability to cover tuition and living expenses for one academic year (approximately $45,000 USD).
Optional: Personal statement and/or letters of recommendation (for additional scholarship consideration).
To be eligible for graduate programs at McKendree University, applicants must meet the following criteria:
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (some programs may accept a lower GPA with additional requirements, such as a personal statement or probationary admission).
Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges/universities.
Non-native English speakers must meet one of the following:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (iBT).
IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 105.
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58.
Certain programs, such as the MBA, MSN, DNP, and Ed.D., have additional requirements:
Resume/CV: Highlighting work experience, particularly for professional programs like the MBA or MSN.
Letters of Recommendation: 1-3 letters, depending on the program.
Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement: Explaining academic goals, career aspirations, and reasons for choosing the program.
Additional materials for specific programs, such as a portfolio or professional licenses.
Financial documentation (bank statements or affidavit of support).
Copy of passport.
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked (Regional Focus) |
N/A |
|
US News & World Report |
Regional Universities (Midwest) |
Ranked in Top 50 |
|
US News & World Report |
Best Value Schools (Regional Universities Midwest) |
Ranked in Top 30 |
|
US News & World Report |
Top Performers on Social Mobility (Midwest) |
Ranked in Top 20 |
|
College Consensus |
Best Colleges in Illinois |
Recognized |
|
Military Friendly® Schools |
Best Colleges for Military Students |
Designated as Military Friendly |
|
NICHE |
Overall Grade |
B |
|
NICHE |
Campus Life |
B+ |
|
NICHE |
Diversity |
B |
|
College Factual |
Best Value Colleges in Illinois |
Recognized |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Renewable |
Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Academic Excellence Scholarship |
High-achieving students based on GPA and SAT/ACT scores. |
Up to $18,000 per year |
Yes |
Automatically considered upon admission. |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Exceptional academic performance (GPA 3.9+). |
Up to $20,000 per year |
Yes |
Competitive; requires a separate application. |
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
Based on academic performance (GPA 3.0+). |
$10,000–$18,000 per year |
Yes |
Automatically awarded at the time of admission. |
|
International Student Scholarship |
International students with strong academic records. |
$10,000–$18,000 per year |
Yes |
Automatically considered for all international students. |
|
Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship |
For transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa. |
$2,000 per year |
Yes |
For students transferring from community colleges. |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Student-athletes participating in NCAA Division II sports. |
(Partial to Full Tuition) |
Yes |
Based on athletic performance; awarded by coaches. |
|
Talent Scholarships |
For students in music, theater, or art programs. |
N/A |
Yes |
Based on auditions or portfolio submissions. |
|
Military Service Scholarship |
Active-duty military, veterans, and dependents. |
Up to 50% of tuition |
Yes |
Includes National Guard and Reserve members. |
|
Legacy Scholarship |
Students whose parent, sibling, or grandparent attended McKendree. |
$1,000 per year |
Yes |
Proof of relationship required. |
|
Illinois Tuition Grant (MAP Grant) |
Illinois residents with financial need (FAFSA required). |
Up to $5,340 per year |
Yes |
Must submit FAFSA by deadline. |
|
Federal Pell Grant |
Based on financial need (FAFSA required). |
Up to $7,395 per year |
Yes |
Awarded to eligible undergraduate students. |
|
Bright Future Scholarship |
Need-based for undergraduate students. |
$1,000–$2,000 per year |
Yes |
FAFSA completion required. |
|
Esports Scholarship |
For students participating in McKendree's esports team. |
N/A |
Yes |
Awarded based on performance and coach recommendation. |
|
Transfer Merit Scholarship |
For transfer students with strong academic records. |
$10,000–$14,000 per year |
Yes |
Based on GPA from previous institution. |
Accommodation Option |
Description |
Cost Per Semester (USD) |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
Features and Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Residence Halls |
|
|
|
|
|
- Baker Hall |
Traditional residence hall for first-year students with shared double rooms. |
$3,060 |
$6,120 |
Shared bathrooms, study lounges, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and community kitchen. |
|
- Barnett Hall |
Traditional-style residence hall for first-year students, with shared double rooms. |
$3,060 |
$6,120 |
Includes study spaces, community lounges, and free laundry facilities. |
|
- Walton Hall |
Co-ed residence hall with shared double rooms, primarily for sophomores. |
$3,060 |
$6,120 |
Wi-Fi, shared bathrooms, and recreational spaces. |
|
Suites and Apartments |
|
|
|
|
|
- The Suites |
Semi-private suites for upperclassmen, offering shared bedrooms with private or semi-private baths. |
$3,800 |
$7,600 |
Includes furnished bedrooms, living space, laundry facilities, and community areas. |
|
- McKendree West Apartments |
Apartment-style housing for juniors, seniors, and graduate students. |
$4,550 |
$9,100 |
Fully furnished apartments with private bedrooms, kitchen, and living areas. |
|
- Hunter Street Apartments |
Off-campus apartments located near the main campus, available for upperclassmen. |
$4,550 |
$9,100 |
Includes private bedrooms, full kitchen, and shared living areas. |
|
Meal Plans |
Required for students living in residence halls and suites. |
|
|
|
|
- Full Meal Plan |
Unlimited meals with additional dining dollars for snacks and drinks. |
$2,425 |
$4,850 |
Access to dining hall and on-campus eateries. |
|
- Limited Meal Plan |
14 meals per week with additional dining dollars. |
$2,325 |
$4,650 |
|
|
Off-Campus Housing |
|
|
|
|
|
- Off-Campus Apartments or Homes |
Available to students living independently, typically for seniors or graduate students. |
$500–$1,200 per month |
$6,000–$14,400 |
Options vary; rent depends on location, type of housing, and shared arrangements. |
1. Campus Life
Welcoming and Supportive Environment:
With a small student body of around 2,000 students, McKendree University fosters a close-knit community where students are valued and supported.
Small Class Sizes:
The 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention, allowing students to build strong relationships with professors and peers.
Scenic Campus:
Located in Lebanon, Illinois, the 235-acre campus combines historic architecture with modern facilities, creating a charming yet state-of-the-art learning environment.
2. Clubs and Organizations
McKendree offers more than 75 student organizations catering to diverse interests, including academic, cultural, service, and recreational clubs. Popular options include:
Student Government Association (SGA): Representing student voices and organizing campus events.
Campus Activities Board (CAB): Plans activities such as movie nights, concerts, and social events.
Honor Societies: Includes Phi Kappa Phi, Sigma Zeta, and more.
Cultural and Diversity Organizations:
International Student Organization (ISO): A hub for international students to connect and share their cultures.
Black Student Union (BSU): Promotes cultural awareness and inclusion.
Latinos Unidos: Celebrates Latinx culture.
Academic Clubs: Business Society, Psychology Club, Pre-Law Society, etc.
Special Interest Groups: Environmental Action Club, eSports Club, and more.
Students are also encouraged to start their own clubs if their interests are not already represented.
3. Athletics and Recreation
Athletic Programs:
McKendree University's athletic teams, the Bearcats, compete in NCAA Division II and the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC). Sports include:
Football, Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, Swimming, Wrestling, and more.
eSports Team: McKendree is a pioneer in collegiate gaming, offering scholarships for skilled gamers.
Intramural Sports and Recreation:
Students can participate in recreational sports such as flag football, basketball, dodgeball, and volleyball.
The Melvin Price Convocation Center (MPCC) includes:
A fitness center with cardio and weight training equipment.
Group exercise classes, yoga, and wellness programs.
Outdoor Activities:
The campus features green spaces for walking, jogging, and relaxing. Nearby, students can explore hiking trails and nature reserves.
4. Cultural Events and Activities
Performing Arts and Theater:
The Hettenhausen Center for the Arts (The Hett) hosts plays, concerts, film screenings, and guest speakers throughout the year.
Annual Events:
Popular events include Welcome Week, Homecoming Week, the Cultural Showcase, and the Spring Fling Carnival.
Multicultural Celebrations:
Events such as International Education Week, Black History Month, and Hispanic Heritage Month highlight cultural diversity and foster inclusion.
5. Residence Life
On-Campus Housing:
Living on campus is an essential part of student life at McKendree, especially for first-year and sophomore students. Residence halls and suites offer a supportive community atmosphere and opportunities to connect with peers.
Residence Life Programs: Events such as movie nights, game tournaments, and study groups are organized by Resident Assistants (RAs).
Dining:
Students enjoy a variety of meal options at the dining hall, 1828 Café, and The Lair, with menus that accommodate dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.).
6. Career Services and Professional Development
McKendree University equips students for life after graduation through its Career Services Center, which offers:
Career counseling and job search assistance.
Resume workshops and interview preparation.
Internship placement opportunities.
Networking events and employer connections.
Access to Handshake, a platform for job and internship listings.
7. International Student Life
McKendree University is a welcoming home for international students from over 40 countries. Dedicated services and programs include:
International Student Services (ISS): Provides visa support, cultural adjustment resources, and academic advising.
Cultural Events: Opportunities to share their culture through events such as the International Education Week.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Support: For students who need additional language development.
Orientation Program: A specialized orientation session helps international students settle into campus life.
8. Community Engagement and Volunteerism
Service Learning:
Students are encouraged to give back to the community through volunteer programs and service-learning projects.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Partnering with local schools, non-profits, and organizations in Lebanon and St. Louis, students engage in meaningful work that fosters leadership and social responsibility.
9. Campus Safety
McKendree University is dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure campus environment:
24/7 campus security patrol.
Emergency notification systems.
Keycard access to residence halls.
SafeRide program for transportation assistance at night.
10. Proximity to St. Louis
McKendree University is located just 20 minutes from St. Louis, Missouri, giving students access to:
Internship opportunities with top companies, hospitals, and non-profits.
Cultural experiences, including museums, theaters, and music festivals.
Entertainment such as professional sports games, shopping centers, and famous landmarks like the Gateway Arch.
1. Career Services Center
The Career Services Center at McKendree plays a pivotal role in preparing students for employment by offering:
Career Counseling: One-on-one guidance to identify career goals and strategies.
Resume and Cover Letter Workshops: Assistance with creating professional documents tailored to specific industries.
Mock Interviews: Practice sessions to help students prepare for real-world job interviews.
Job and Internship Listings: Access to McKendree's Handshake platform, where students can find local, national, and international opportunities.
Graduate School Preparation: Support for students pursuing further studies, including GRE/GMAT prep.
2. Internship Opportunities
McKendree emphasizes hands-on learning, and most degree programs encourage or require internships as part of the curriculum.
Top Fields for Internships:
Business Administration (Accounting, Marketing, Finance)
Computer Science and Cybersecurity
Education
Nursing and Healthcare
Social Work and Criminal Justice
Partnerships:
McKendree partners with organizations in St. Louis, Illinois, and beyond to provide internship placements.
Students have interned with companies such as Edward Jones, Boeing, HSHS Medical Group, and St. Louis Cardinals.
3. Employer Networking and Career Fairs
McKendree hosts annual career fairs and employer networking events, connecting students with local, regional, and national employers.
Companies from various industries actively recruit McKendree graduates during these events.
4. Alumni Network
McKendree University has a strong alumni network across industries, and many alumni mentor students or provide job referrals.
Alumni connections often lead to internships and full-time job placements.
Employment Rate: Over 90% of McKendree graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within 6 months of graduation.
Internship Participation: Around 70% of students complete internships during their studies, enhancing their employability.
Average Starting Salaries (Varies by Field):
Business Graduates: $50,000–$60,000 per year
Computer Science Graduates: $65,000–$80,000 per year
Nursing Graduates: $55,000–$70,000 per year
Social Work and Education Graduates: $40,000–$50,000 per year
McKendree alumni have been employed by leading companies and organizations, including:
Edward Jones
Boeing
World Wide Technology
HSHS Medical Group
St. Louis Cardinals
Ameren
BJC Healthcare
Monsanto
State of Illinois
Local school districts and police departments.
Business Administration (Undergraduate and MBA):
Graduates secure positions in management, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Nursing (BSN and MSN):
Strong demand for nurses ensures high placement rates in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations.
Computer Science and Cybersecurity:
McKendree’s tech graduates often find jobs in software development, IT security, and data analysis.
Education:
Graduates are well-prepared for teaching roles in local school districts.
Criminal Justice:
Many graduates work in law enforcement, corrections, and public safety.
McKendree offers specialized support for international students transitioning into the U.S. job market:
Optional Practical Training (OPT):
International students can work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after graduation, with an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension for Computer Science and related fields.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT):
Allows international students to gain practical work experience while completing their degree.
Career Workshops:
Topics such as networking, visa work requirements, and cultural adaptation are covered.
Business Graduate:
A recent graduate secured a position at Edward Jones as a Financial Advisor after completing an internship during their final year.
Computer Science Graduate:
A graduate landed a role as a Software Developer at Boeing after participating in the university’s career fair.
Nursing Graduate:
A nursing student was hired by BJC Healthcare immediately after completing their clinical rotations.
Handshake:
A job and internship platform that connects students with employers locally, nationally, and internationally.
LinkedIn Alumni Network:
Students leverage McKendree’s alumni network on LinkedIn to connect with professionals in their fields.
Professional Development Events:
Resume-building workshops, leadership programs, and networking opportunities are regularly hosted on campus.
Moderate Selectivity:
With an acceptance rate of 72%, McKendree University is open to admitting students who demonstrate the potential to succeed academically.
While admission is not overly competitive, the university still evaluates applications holistically, considering GPA, test scores (optional), and other submitted materials.
Factors Influencing Admission:
High School GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) is generally required for undergraduate programs.
Test-Optional Policy: Students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, though they can be submitted for merit-based scholarship consideration.
Holistic Review: The university considers academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal statements (if submitted).
International Student Consideration:
International students are encouraged to apply and are evaluated based on academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo), and financial documentation.
Transfer Student Admissions:
Transfer students are also welcome, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 required from previous college coursework.
Address:
701 College Road, Lebanon, Illinois, 62254, USA.
Geographical Setting:
The campus is situated on a 235-acre property in Lebanon, Illinois. It features historic and modern architecture surrounded by green spaces, providing a scenic and peaceful environment for learning.
The town of Lebanon offers a welcoming, safe, and student-friendly atmosphere with small shops, cafes, and community events.
Proximity to St. Louis:
McKendree is located approximately 25 minutes east of downtown St. Louis, Missouri, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the Midwest.
This proximity gives students access to a wide range of cultural, professional, and recreational opportunities in St. Louis, including internships, job opportunities, museums, theaters, and professional sports events.
