Benedictine College
Acceptance rate
98.1%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$36,350
$49,780 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
2,403
Student-faculty ratio 16:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
52.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 67.6%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Benedictine College, located in Atchison, Kansas, is a private Catholic liberal arts institution known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus culture, and commitment to the holistic development of its students. Founded in 1858, the college has a rich history rooted in the Benedictine tradition, which emphasizes community, service, and the pursuit of truth. The college's mission is reflected in its motto, "Ut in Omnibus Glorificetur Deus," meaning "That in all things God may be glorified." This guiding principle fosters an environment where students are encouraged to integrate their faith with their academic and personal lives.
The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various fields, including humanities, sciences, business, and education, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. One of the notable aspects of Benedictine College is its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community. The campus is home to numerous student organizations, clubs, and athletic programs, allowing students to engage in extracurricular activities that promote leadership and teamwork. Additionally, Benedictine College emphasizes the importance of physical fitness and sports, with a variety of NCAA Division II athletic teams. The college's picturesque campus, situated along the Missouri River, provides a serene environment conducive to academic excellence and personal growth. With a strong emphasis on faith, leadership, and service, Benedictine College prepares its graduates to make meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Data Points from Benedictine College
Benedictine College, a private institution, has shown significant fluctuations in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, retention rates, and student demographics.
One of the most notable trends is the rising tuition for undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, tuition has increased from $23,900 to $34,800, reflecting a substantial rise of approximately 45.5%. This escalation in costs may pose financial barriers for prospective students and could influence enrollment decisions, especially in an era where student debt is a pressing concern.
In terms of academic success, the graduation rates for undergraduate students have also seen an upward trajectory. The on-time graduation rate increased from around 39% in 2013 to approximately 52% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college has possibly enhanced its support systems, leading to better student outcomes and possibly higher retention rates, which hovered around 77% to 84% in the last decade. The retention rate is crucial as it indicates student satisfaction and the effectiveness of the institution in maintaining its student body.
Additionally, the gender demographics of the student body have remained relatively balanced, with nearly equal representation of male and female students in recent years. This balance is vital for fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, which can enrich the educational experience for all students.
In conclusion, while the rising tuition may be a concern, the positive trends in graduation and retention rates indicate that Benedictine College is making strides in providing a supportive educational environment. As the institution navigates these challenges, it will be essential to continue adapting its strategies to ensure accessibility and success for its students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Kansas City, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI), about 30 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Stephen D. Minnis (President)
- Phone
- 9133675340
- Address
- 1020 N 2nd St, Atchison, KS 66002-1499
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 95.5%, women 98.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Benedictine College Admission Trends
The admission data for Benedictine College reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. In 2009, the college exhibited a notably low acceptance rate for both genders, with approximately 18.37% for males and 20.90% for females, resulting in a substantial number of denied applicants (1,756). However, this trend reversed dramatically by 2015, when acceptance rates skyrocketed to nearly 97.15% for males and 98.26% for females, leading to a sharp decline in denied applications to only 50.
The enrollment numbers have generally increased over the years, peaking at 610 in 2022, demonstrating the college's growing appeal. The low denial rates in recent years suggest a strategic shift towards a more inclusive admission process. This could be a response to broader trends in higher education where institutions are increasingly aiming to diversify their student bodies and increase enrollment figures.
Moreover, the increase in deferred admissions, particularly in 2010 with over 1,000 students, indicates a possible strategy to manage student demand and maintain selectivity amidst rising interest. The college's ability to adapt to changing applicant dynamics and market conditions is commendable, positioning itself as a competitive choice among higher education institutions.
Overall, Benedictine College's admission statistics reflect a pronounced shift towards inclusivity and growth, aligning with national trends in higher education where colleges are responding to demographic changes and evolving societal expectations. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be interesting to observe how Benedictine College further adjusts its strategies to attract and retain students.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 20% submitted SAT, 30% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Benedictine College Admission Data Trends
The admission data for Benedictine College over the years showcases notable trends in standardized test submissions and performance. The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen fluctuations, with a significant increase in 2019 when nearly 29% of admitted students submitted scores, which is relatively high compared to earlier years. This suggests a growing reliance or emphasis on standardized testing among prospective students.
Examining the score trends, the SAT reading and math scores, as well as ACT composite scores, have generally shown improvement in the 25th and 75th percentile ranges over the years. For instance, the SAT reading scores have risen from 443 in 2007 to 560 by 2023 for the 25th percentile, indicating that the academic preparedness of incoming students has improved. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have also increased, suggesting that the college is attracting high-achieving students.
Moreover, the ACT scores reflect a consistent upward trajectory as well, with the 75th percentile score reaching 27 by 2023. This trend aligns with national data, showing that students are increasingly prepared for college-level work, which can be attributed to various factors including improved high school curricula and test preparation resources.
The college's strategic focus on enhancing academic standards and attracting a competitive applicant pool is evident. As higher education institutions continue to navigate the evolving landscape of admissions, including the recent discussions surrounding test-optional policies, Benedictine College's data reflects both a commitment to academic excellence and an adaptive approach to student admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
2,715 applicants in 2025, 98.1% admitted
2,664 admitted 51 not admitted Yield 22.9%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's27 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's5 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data at Benedictine College
The graduate data from Benedictine College in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. Business Administration consistently emerges as a dominant area, with substantial numbers graduating at both the bachelor and master's levels. This aligns with national trends indicating an increasing demand for business professionals, particularly in a post-pandemic economy where adaptability and financial acumen are crucial.
Interestingly, the field of Health Sciences also shows strong graduation numbers, particularly in Registered Nursing, reflecting the growing need for healthcare professionals in light of ongoing global health challenges. The absence of international students in these programs could indicate a potential area for growth, as many institutions are increasing their efforts to attract a diverse student body.
Moreover, the data highlights a significant number of graduates in Education disciplines. With the current emphasis on educational reform and the ongoing teacher shortages in various regions, these graduates are likely to play a critical role in addressing these issues.
On the other hand, fields such as engineering and technology, while still important, show lower graduation numbers. This might raise concerns about the future workforce in STEM fields, which are essential for innovation and economic growth.
Overall, the data underscores the importance of aligning educational programs with market demands, and suggests that institutions like Benedictine College could benefit from expanding recruitment efforts and program offerings in emerging fields, particularly those that attract international students.
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 | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $52,569-$55,415 | ||
| Accounting. | $63,919 | ||
| Finance, General. | $56,658 | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $51,291 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | ||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - | ||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $42,696 | ||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $42,696 | ||
| Art Teacher Education. | - | ||
| Music Teacher Education. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Religious Education. | - | ||
| Theology/Theological Studies. | $37,784 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - | ||
| Physical Fitness Technician. | - | ||
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Engineering. | - | ||
| Civil Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $73,956 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $76,255 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Criminology. | - | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architecture. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other. | $37,953 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $41,763 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astronomy. | - | ||
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | - |
Students
2,535 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 83.2%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,607
- First-year undergraduates 607
- Graduate students 132
- Transfers and others 189
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,403)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Benedictine College 2023
In 2023, Benedictine College showcases a diverse student body with a total of 2,358 students categorized into four main groups: first-year undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, transfer undergraduates, and graduate students. Notably, first-year undergraduates represent a significant portion of the student population, totaling 593 students, with a nearly balanced gender ratio of 51.1% male and 48.9% female. This suggests an encouraging trend for gender inclusivity at the beginning of students' academic journeys.
Continuing undergraduates, numbering 1,499, exhibit a slight female majority at 51.3%. This demographic shift may indicate that the institution provides a supportive environment for female students, which could be a factor in their retention rates. Transfer students are fewer, at 63, but they maintain a higher male ratio of 54%. This could reflect broader trends in higher education, where transfer pathways may attract more male students seeking to continue their education.
The graduate student population is relatively small at 73, with a significant male majority of 58.9%. This might highlight fields of study that traditionally attract more male students, such as engineering or the sciences, which often influence the gender dynamics at the graduate level.
Overall, the demographic data from Benedictine College reflects a diverse and balanced environment, though further exploration into the specific programs and support services could provide insight into how the college fosters this diversity and supports all its students in their academic endeavors.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Benedictine College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Benedictine College in 2023 reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. A striking majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, with nearly 60% of the total enrollment comprised of undergraduates aged 18-21. This trend mirrors national patterns in higher education, where younger students dominate college campuses, likely reflecting the traditional path of attending college immediately after high school.
Interestingly, there is a notable drop in enrollment once students reach their mid-20s, with only a small fraction of students aged 25-29. This could indicate a trend where students either graduate within the typical timeframe or choose to pursue other career pathways, rather than returning to higher education later in life. The presence of a limited number of older students, particularly those in the 30-34 and 35-39 age categories, highlights the challenges faced by non-traditional students in accessing college education.
Gender representation is also noteworthy. The total number of female students exceeds that of male students across nearly all age categories, particularly in the younger demographics. This aligns with recent statistics showing that women are increasingly enrolling in higher education at higher rates than their male counterparts.
The data also shows minimal enrollment among students aged 50 and above, which raises questions about lifelong learning opportunities and the accessibility of higher education for older adults. Overall, the age composition at Benedictine College reflects broader trends in higher education, emphasizing the prevalence of younger, traditionally aged students while highlighting potential areas for growth in attracting non-traditional and older learners.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
23 in 2025 · 2.7% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 3.6% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Benedictine College
The data on international student enrollment at Benedictine College reflects a fluctuating trend over nearly two decades. In the undergraduate segment, the number of international students peaked in 2008 with 69 students, which was about 3.95% of the total undergraduate population. However, recent years have shown a concerning decline, with only 20 international students in 2023, representing a mere 0.87% of the total undergraduate enrollment.
In contrast, the graduate student population has experienced some variability, with the highest percentage of international students recorded in 2006 at 7.69% and a more recent figure of 2.74% in 2023. Despite the fluctuations, the overall number of graduate students remains relatively stable, although the proportion of international students has not shown consistent growth.
Several factors could contribute to these trends. The global pandemic significantly affected international travel and education, leading to a decrease in enrollments in many institutions across the United States. Additionally, changing immigration policies and competition from other countries offering attractive educational opportunities may also play a role in these declining numbers.
The decline in international student enrollment could have implications for the college’s cultural diversity and global engagement. International students often contribute significantly to campus life, bringing diverse perspectives and enriching the educational experience for all students. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, it will be crucial for Benedictine College to implement strategies to attract and retain international students, ensuring they can benefit from a truly global education environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$49,780
- Undergraduate tuition
- $36,350
- Room and board
- $13,430
- Graduate tuition
- $6,670
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 39% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 47%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$90.4M
Expenses$70.2M
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 NAIA · Heart of America Athletic Conference
Heart of America Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 134 | 112 |
| Football | 197 | - |
| Soccer | 51 | 29 |
| Baseball | 69 | - |
| Wrestling | 53 | - |
| Lacrosse | 27 | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 34 |
| Basketball | 17 | 16 |
| Softball | - | 28 |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 184 | 159 |
| Football | 234 | - |
| Soccer | 59 | 37 |
| Baseball | 72 | - |
| Lacrosse | 39 | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 51 |
| Wrestling | 50 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 21 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 129 | 129 |
| Football | 211 | - |
| Soccer | 45 | 36 |
| Baseball | 68 | - |
| Lacrosse | 29 | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 39 |
| Basketball | 20 | 15 |
| Wrestling | 35 | - |
| Other Sports | - | 35 |
| Softball | - | 30 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of KansasLawrence · 43.1 mi
U.S. News #148
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 46.8 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 82.7 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Nebraska-LincolnLincoln · 120.0 mi
U.S. News #169
-
Creighton UniversityOmaha · 124.9 mi
U.S. News #100
-
University of Nebraska--OmahaOmaha · 125.6 mi
U.S. News #299
-
University of Missouri-ColumbiaColumbia · 155.2 mi
U.S. News #95
-
Drake UniversityDes Moines · 159.7 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 173.9 mi
U.S. News #288
Data insights
Here are some notable universities surrounding Benedictine College:
-
University of Kansas - Ranked 151 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
Kansas State University - With a rank of 170, Kansas State University is a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly noted for its agricultural and engineering disciplines.
-
Creighton University - This university ranks 124 and is recognized for its commitment to liberal arts education and professional programs, including law and healthcare.
-
University of Missouri-Kansas City - Ranked 269, UMKC offers a diverse array of programs and is particularly noted for its health sciences and business disciplines.
-
Iowa State University - With a rank of 115, this comprehensive university is well-regarded for its engineering, agriculture, and veterinary programs.
-
Grinnell College - A top-ranked liberal arts college at number 11, Grinnell is known for its rigorous academic standards and strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement.
-
Washington University in St Louis - Ranked 24, this prestigious university is recognized for its excellent research facilities and a wide range of academic programs.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to a vibrant academic community in the region.
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
Crime Rates at Benedictine College: A 2013-2023 Overview
The crime statistics from Benedictine College over the past decade reveal notable fluctuations in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students. From 2013 to 2023, the average rate spanned from a low of 10.99 in 2017 to a peak of 19.83 in 2020. The data highlights a concerning trend in 2020, where the crime rate reached its highest, coinciding with a year marked by widespread societal unrest and challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have exacerbated various issues, including substance abuse and domestic violence.
A closer look at the specific types of offenses indicates that drug-related arrests and alcohol-related incidents have played a significant role in shaping these statistics. During the years with higher crime rates, there was often a corresponding increase in drug and alcohol arrests, suggesting that these issues may be more pronounced on campus during times of increased stress or societal pressure.
Interestingly, the rates have shown some improvement in 2021 and 2023, indicating a potential positive trend towards a safer campus environment. However, the spike in 2022 with a rate of 19.33 raises questions about the underlying factors contributing to these incidents. Overall, continuous monitoring and proactive measures are essential for ensuring student safety and well-being at the institution.
For further insights into crime rate calculation methods, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Benedictine College include Wangari Muta Maathai (Kenyan environmentalist, 2004 Nobel Peace Prize winner), David Koechner (Actor and comedian) and Frank Wilcox (Film, television and Broadway actor).
-
Wangari Muta Maathai 1940–2011
Kenyan environmentalist, 2004 Nobel Peace Prize winner
-
David Koechner 1962–
Actor and comedian
-
Frank Wilcox 1907–1974
Film, television and Broadway actor
-
John Balthasar Brungardt 1958–
Catholic Bishop of Dodge City, Kansas
-
Joseph P. Teasdale 1936–2014
48th governor of Missouri
-
Jack Buechner 1940–2020
Former Republican U.S. Representative from Missouri
-
Eugene D. O'Sullivan 1883–1968
Democratic politician from Nebraska
-
Andrew Jacobs 1906–1992
Indiana congressman and attorney
-
Bob Veale 1935–2025
MLB pitcher for Pirates and Red Sox
More alumni (7, by field)
Politics and law
-
Terrance W. Gainer 1947–
38th Sergeant at Arms of the US Senate
-
Mary Glenski 1930–
Former South Dakota state representative
Arts and media
-
Michael M. Ryan 1929–2017
Actor known for John Randolph on Another World
-
Donn B. Murphy 1930–2022
Georgetown theatre teacher and White House theatrical advisor
Sports
-
Irv Comp 1919–1989
American professional football player
-
Jamie Mueller 1964–
Former Buffalo Bills running back
Other fields
-
John Henry Tihen 1861–1940
Catholic bishop of Lincoln and Denver
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.