Eureka College
Acceptance rate
85.0%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$28,636
$39,334 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
527
Student-faculty ratio 14:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
38.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 51.0%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Eureka College, located in Eureka, Illinois, is a private liberal arts college that has a rich history and a commitment to providing a well-rounded education. Founded in 1855, the college has established itself as a center for academic excellence and community engagement. The campus is known for its picturesque setting, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and historical buildings that create a conducive environment for learning and personal development. The college emphasizes the importance of a strong liberal arts education, encouraging students to think critically and communicate effectively while fostering a sense of social responsibility.
One of the defining features of Eureka College is its strong commitment to values such as integrity, service, and leadership, which are reflected in its motto "To be, rather than to seem." The college offers a variety of programs across multiple disciplines, including business, education, and the sciences, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to pursue their passions. The faculty at Eureka College is dedicated to providing personalized attention to students, with a favorable student-to-faculty ratio that enhances the learning experience. Additionally, Eureka College boasts a vibrant campus life with numerous extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and community service initiatives, allowing students to engage fully in their college experience while developing lifelong friendships. With a focus on holistic education, Eureka College prepares its graduates for successful careers and meaningful lives.
Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Eureka College
Eureka College has shown significant changes in several key educational metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, retention rates, and graduation rates.
Tuition fees have steadily increased from $20,060 in 2014 to $28,400 in 2024 for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students, marking a rise of approximately 42% over this ten-year period. This increase may contribute to the declining student enrollment numbers, which have decreased from 754 in 2013 to just 559 in 2023. This trend raises concerns about the accessibility of higher education and may reflect broader national trends regarding college affordability.
Retention rates have displayed interesting fluctuations, peaking at around 81.5% in 2016 before declining to 56.8% in 2023. Though this number is still respectable, the downward trend suggests that the institution may face challenges in keeping students engaged and satisfied throughout their academic journey.
Graduation rates have also varied over the years, with the on-time graduation rate rising from 30.2% in 2013 to 52.4% in 2023. This nearly 22% increase indicates improvements in student outcomes, which can be attributed to enhanced academic support services or more effective retention strategies.
In conclusion, while Eureka College has made strides in improving graduation rates, the rising tuition costs and declining enrollment suggest that the institution must address affordability and student satisfaction to ensure future growth and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Town near a city
- Nearest major city
- Chicago, about 110 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), about 110 mi
- Also known as
- EC
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
- President
- Dr. Jamel Santa Cruze Wright (President)
- Phone
- 8884387352
- Address
- 300 E. College Avenue, Eureka, IL 61530
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 57.9%, women 67.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Eureka College
Eureka College has displayed a notable trajectory in its admission statistics over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. The acceptance rates for male and female applicants have varied significantly, with male applicants experiencing a decline in acceptance rates from approximately 66% in 2009 to about 55% in 2019, before experiencing a remarkable increase to over 85% in 2022 and 2023. This drastic change suggests a strategic shift in admission policies, possibly aimed at increasing enrollment numbers in response to changing demographics or financial pressures.
Conversely, female acceptance rates have remained relatively stable, oscillating between 64% and 77% during the same period, highlighting a more consistent approach towards female candidates. The substantial increase in enrollment numbers in recent years coincides with the higher acceptance rates, indicating that the college may be actively working to boost its student body and enhance diversity.
Another important aspect to consider is the significant number of applicants being deferred. For example, in 2009, the deferred applicants numbered 676, which has somewhat fluctuated over the years. This could indicate a cautious approach by the college to manage its enrollment more effectively, giving it the flexibility to assess and adapt to the ever-evolving educational landscape.
Overall, the admission data for Eureka College illustrates not only the institution's responsiveness to external pressures but also its commitment to maintaining a balanced demographic representation among its student body. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Eureka College adapts its admission strategies in the coming years.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores and Submission Rates at Eureka College
Eureka College's admission data from 2007 to 2023 reveals significant trends in both the submission rates of standardized test scores and the corresponding performance levels of admitted students. Over the years, the proportion of applicants submitting SAT and ACT scores has fluctuated, with notable peaks in recent years. For instance, in 2019 and 2020, around 89% and 88% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, respectively, indicating a strong reliance on these standardized tests for admissions decisions.
The score ranges for the SAT reading and math sections and the ACT composite scores show varying performance among admitted students. The lower quartile scores (25th percentile) have witnessed a decline, particularly from 2011 onwards, where the SAT reading scores have dropped from 550 to 450 by 2023. This drop suggests that the academic preparedness of incoming students may be diminishing over time, which could be a concern for the institution.
Moreover, the upper quartile scores (75th percentile) for both SAT and ACT tests exhibit some degree of volatility, but they remain relatively competitive. The changes in these scores could reflect broader educational trends, including shifts in high school curricula, test preparation practices, and the overall admissions landscape influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many institutions to adopt test-optional policies.
This data underscores the importance of understanding standardized test scores in the context of a holistic admissions process. As Eureka College navigates these shifts, it may need to reassess its criteria for evaluating applicants to ensure that it continues to attract well-rounded and academically prepared students while adapting to changing educational dynamics.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
1,186 applicants in 2025, 85.0% admitted
1,008 admitted 178 not admitted Yield 15.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Eureka College
The graduation data from Eureka College for the year 2023 reveals several interesting trends across various disciplines. Firstly, the highest number of graduates can be found in Criminal Justice and Corrections, with 21 individuals earning their bachelor's degree. This highlights the growing interest in criminal justice, potentially influenced by increasing societal concerns regarding crime and public safety.
In the field of Business Administration, a total of 28 graduates obtained their bachelor's degrees across different specializations, indicating a robust interest in business-related careers. The lack of international students in this category suggests that this field might be primarily attracting domestic students.
Psychology also demonstrates a notable trend, with 8 graduates, including 1 international student. This reflects the rising awareness and importance of mental health in contemporary society, encouraging more students to pursue careers in psychology and counseling.
The data shows a significant number of graduates in education-related fields, with several categories like Elementary Education, Special Education, and General Education accumulating a combined total of 15 graduates. This could reflect a demand for qualified educators in light of ongoing educational reforms and the need for specialized teaching roles.
Interestingly, there are no graduates reported in fields like Computer Science, Environmental Studies, and Health Sciences, which may indicate either a lack of interest or possible barriers that prevent students from enrolling in these crucial areas. Given the current job market trends that favor technology and healthcare, addressing this gap could be vital for future academic offerings and student guidance.
Overall, the graduation data paints a comprehensive picture of the academic landscape at Eureka College, highlighting areas of strength and potential opportunities for growth in response to societal needs.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $46,867 | |
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | |
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $40,816 | |
| Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching. | $40,816 | |
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $40,816 | |
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice and Corrections, General. | $48,366 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | |
| Developmental and Child Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | - | |
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| History and Political Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
527 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 55:45 · Freshman retention 50.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 286
- First-year undergraduates 160
- Transfers and others 81
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (527)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Data insights
Demographic Insights of Eureka College Students in 2023
The student body composition at Eureka College in 2023 reveals interesting trends regarding gender distribution and racial diversity among different student classifications. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 151, with a nearly equal gender split, where 50.3% are male and 49.7% are female. This balance suggests a welcoming environment for both genders in the initial stages of their college journey.
In stark contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen show a slightly higher male presence, with 52% identifying as male. This could indicate a trend of male retention in the college or possibly reflect broader societal patterns in education. The transfer students exhibit a significant gender disparity, with 63.7% being male and only 36.3% female. This raises questions about the factors influencing male students' decisions to transfer, which could be reflective of their experiences in prior educational settings.
Examining the demographic breakdown, the data reveals that among the various ethnic groups, white students form a substantial portion of the student population, with notable representation in the freshman and upperclassmen categories. The absence of detailed figures for the graduate students and the lack of comprehensive data on ethnic subdivisions hinder a full understanding of the diversity present among graduate students.
Overall, the data highlights both the gender balance and the predominance of white students at Eureka College, prompting further inquiry into the factors that contribute to these demographics and how they might evolve in future years. As higher education institutions strive for inclusivity and representation, Eureka College's current student composition can serve as a benchmark for assessing progress in these areas.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Eureka College
The age demographics of students at Eureka College in 2023 reveal intriguing patterns. The majority of students fall within the 18-19 age bracket, comprising 50.1% of the total student population, with 118 male undergraduates and 117 female undergraduates. This cohort reflects the traditional college-age group, suggesting that Eureka College attracts a significant number of recent high school graduates.
Interestingly, the 20-21 age range also shows a substantial representation, accounting for 19.1% of the total. The number of male undergraduates in this category is 120, while the female counterpart is only 87, highlighting a gender disparity. This trend may indicate the college's retention rates, with males continuing their education at a higher rate or potentially a lag in female enrollment.
As the age brackets increase, a noticeable decline in student numbers occurs. For instance, the 22-24 age group constitutes merely 10.2% of the total, while even older cohorts, such as those aged 25-29 and 30-34, account for only 2.5% and 1.7%, respectively. This decline might reflect a trend where older individuals may opt for non-traditional paths, such as part-time studies or entering the workforce directly after undergraduate studies.
The absence of graduate male students in all but the undergraduate categories raises questions about the college’s appeal to postgraduate males. Female graduate students, while fewer in number, still represent a vital segment, particularly in the older age brackets where traditional pathways may differ.
Overall, the data underscores a youthful demographic at Eureka College, emphasizing the importance of attracting and retaining a diverse student body across age groups and genders to foster a balanced educational environment.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
6 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Eureka College
The data on international student enrollment at Eureka College reveals a fluctuating trend over the years, particularly in the undergraduate segment. In 2004, the percentage of international students was at a modest 1.02%, which shows a small but steady rise until 2006, where it peaked at 1.68%. However, this upward trend did not sustain, and by 2008, the percentage dropped dramatically to 0.45%. This fluctuation indicates potential challenges the college faced in attracting and retaining international students.
From 2009 to 2019, the numbers continued to show variability, with the highest percentage recorded in 2018 at 1.47%. The most recent years, particularly 2021 and 2022, reflected a slight recovery, with percentages of 0.78% and 1.05%, respectively. This suggests that while there may have been setbacks, the college is slowly regaining its appeal to international students.
Moreover, the lack of data on graduate students during this time makes it difficult to draw comprehensive conclusions about the overall international student experience at Eureka College. The trends observed could be influenced by broader global factors, such as changes in immigration policies, economic conditions, and competition from other institutions.
As universities worldwide strive to enhance their international student programs, Eureka College may benefit from developing targeted strategies to improve its international recruitment efforts, ensuring a more stable and diverse student body in the future.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$39,334
- Undergraduate tuition
- $28,636
- Room and board
- $10,698
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 40% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 21%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$17.2M
Expenses$18.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference · St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference
Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference: football
St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 73 | - |
| Soccer | 41 | 17 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Basketball | 27 | 18 |
| Wrestling | 18 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 9 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 8 | 4 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 80 | - |
| Soccer | 39 | 18 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 18 | 15 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Wrestling | 10 | 7 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 83 | - |
| Soccer | 27 | 16 |
| Basketball | 24 | 13 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 13 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 27 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Wrestling | 15 | 4 |
| Golf | 8 | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Bradley UniversityPeoria · 18.2 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Illinois State UniversityNormal · 20.4 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Knox CollegeGalesburg · 59.8 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-ChampaignChampaign · 69.1 mi
U.S. News #34
-
University of St. FrancisJoliet · 83.2 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Augustana CollegeRock Island · 86.1 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Aurora UniversityAurora · 86.3 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Wheaton College (IL)Wheaton · 100.3 mi
Liberal Arts #57
-
University of ChicagoChicago · 114.1 mi
U.S. News #9
Data insights
Here are some notable schools nearby Eureka College:
-
Bradley University - Ranked 185 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and a vibrant campus life.
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Illinois State University - With a rank of 209, this comprehensive university is known for its strong education programs and supportive community.
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Knox College - This liberal arts college, ranked 75, is celebrated for its rigorous academics and commitment to personalized education.
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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - A prestigious institution ranked 35, it offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs and is recognized for its research initiatives.
-
Wheaton College - Ranked 56, this liberal arts college emphasizes a Christian worldview and provides a comprehensive education focused on critical thinking.
-
University of Chicago - This highly esteemed university is ranked 12 and is known for its rigorous academics and distinguished faculty.
-
Purdue University-Main Campus - Ranked 43, Purdue is renowned for its engineering and technology programs and offers a vast array of resources for students.
These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and are excellent choices for students seeking higher education in the area surrounding Eureka College.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Eureka College
The crime data from Eureka College reveals significant fluctuations in the rates of various offenses over the past decade. Notably, the years 2015 and 2019 mark peaks in crime rates with 21.69 and 26.46 incidents per 1,000 students, respectively. These spikes may warrant further investigation to understand the underlying causes, such as changes in campus security policies, increased awareness and reporting of incidents, or other external societal factors.
The year 2018 stands out with a significant drop to an average of only 2.93 incidents per 1,000 students, suggesting effective preventive measures might have been in place during that period. Conversely, the subsequent years saw a resurgence in crime rates, particularly in 2019 and 2020, which could correlate with broader national trends in crime or specific events impacting campus safety.
Particular attention should be given to the types of offenses reported. For instance, violent crimes such as assault and domestic violence require ongoing vigilance to ensure student safety. The gradual decline in crime rates since 2021, culminating in a rate of 11.81 in 2023, might indicate a positive trend, yet continuous efforts in enhancing campus safety and student support services remain essential.
Overall, understanding these trends and their implications is crucial for fostering a safe educational environment. Colleges must take proactive steps to address and mitigate crime, ensuring students can focus on their academic pursuits without fear of personal safety. For more on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this resource: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Eureka College include Ronald Reagan (40th President of the United States), Oliver Perry Hay (Paleontologist, herpetologist and ichthyologist) and Neil Reagan (Media executive and older brother of Ronald Reagan).
-
Ronald Reagan 1911–2004
40th President of the United States
-
Oliver Perry Hay 1846–1930
Paleontologist, herpetologist and ichthyologist
-
Neil Reagan 1908–1996
Media executive and older brother of Ronald Reagan
-
William A. Poynter 1848–1909
10th Governor of Nebraska
-
Martin D. Foster 1861–1919
U.S. representative from Illinois
-
Frank Frantz 1872–1941
Last governor of Oklahoma Territory
-
James M. Riggs 1839–1933
US Representative from Illinois
-
Emik Avakian 1923–2013
Armenian American inventor of aids for the disabled
-
Tom Vaughn 1936–2011
Jazz pianist and Episcopal priest
More alumni (5, by field)
Politics and law
-
Robert M. A. Hawk 1839–1882
US representative from Illinois
-
Jonathan H. Rowell 1833–1908
US representative from Illinois
-
James Harris 1840–1923
Eighth lieutenant governor of Nebraska
-
William W. Chalmers 1861–1944
University of Toledo president and Ohio representative
Arts and media
-
William L. White 1947–
Writer on addiction recovery and policy
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.