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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Central Christian College of Kansas

McPherson, Kansas · www.centralchristian.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

52.7%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$21,000

$30,450 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

454

Student-faculty ratio 15:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

18.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 27.5%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Central Christian College of Kansas, located in McPherson, Kansas, is a private Christian liberal arts college that emphasizes a holistic approach to education, grounded in Christian values. Established in 1884, the college has a rich history and is dedicated to fostering spiritual growth, academic excellence, and a sense of community among its students. The college's mission is to prepare students for a life of service and leadership, which aligns with its guiding principle of "In Christ, We Are One." This motto reflects the institution's commitment to inclusivity and unity within a diverse student body.

The college offers a variety of undergraduate programs across multiple disciplines, including business, education, and health sciences, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. Central Christian College is equipped with modern facilities that enhance the learning experience, such as state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational areas. The campus culture is vibrant, characterized by various student organizations, athletic teams, and campus events that promote a sense of belonging and engagement. With an active athletics program and a commitment to student life, Central Christian College not only focuses on academic achievement but also on the overall development of its students, preparing them for successful careers and meaningful lives.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Central Christian College of Kansas

Central Christian College of Kansas, a private institution, has seen significant changes in various metrics over the years, particularly tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.

Firstly, tuition for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has steadily increased from $14,800 in 2014 to $21,000 in 2024, representing a cumulative increase of approximately 42%. This trend reflects a broader national pattern where tuition costs have risen dramatically, often outpacing inflation, which can pose financial challenges for prospective students and their families.

Secondly, the enrollment numbers have shown a worrying decline. From a peak of 1,369 undergraduate students in 2016, enrollment dropped to just 537 by 2023. This decrease of about 61% could be attributed to various factors, including changing demographics, competition from other institutions, or possibly the institution's perceived value. Such a decline not only impacts the college's revenue from tuition but also its vibrancy and campus culture.

Moreover, graduation rates have fluctuated significantly. The on-time graduation rate dipped to 14.74% in 2023, down from 33.70% in 2014. This drop highlights potential issues with student preparedness or institutional support, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the college's educational programs and support systems.

Lastly, the retention rates have experienced variability but show a slight decline recently, falling to 47% in 2023. Retention is critical for institutional success, as it reflects student satisfaction and engagement. A low retention rate may indicate that students are not finding the support they need or are dissatisfied with their educational experience.

In summary, while Central Christian College of Kansas has maintained its commitment to providing education, the trends in tuition, enrollment, graduation, and retention rates suggest urgent attention is needed to address these challenges for future sustainability and success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Wichita, about 50 mi
Nearest international airport
Kansas City International Airport (MCI), about 170 mi
McPherson, Kansas
Also known as
Central Christian College
Academic calendar
Other
Religious affiliation
Free Methodist
President
Leonard Favara (President)
Phone
6202410723331
City
McPherson, Kansas
Address
1200 S Main, McPherson, KS 67460-5740

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
51.8%
Women
54.5%

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Central Christian College of Kansas

The admission data for Central Christian College of Kansas reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. Notably, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 83% in 2009, indicating a competitive yet accessible environment for prospective male students. In contrast, the female acceptance rate has shown a relatively consistent trend, with figures hovering around 60% in the earlier years but experiencing a notable decrease in 2018, where it fell to about 37.5%.
The total enrollment numbers also highlight a concerning trend; from 2009 to 2018, the college's ability to attract new students has varied significantly. The enrollment peaked at 189 students in 2009, but by 2018, it had dropped to 139, despite the higher number of applications being denied in that year. This discrepancy suggests a potential issue in attracting and retaining students, possibly due to changing perceptions of the institution or increased competition from other colleges.
Additionally, the number of deferred admissions has fluctuated, reaching a high of 299 in 2010, which may indicate that many students are considering their options before committing to enrollment. This trend could reflect a broader national trend in higher education, where students are increasingly cautious about their choices, often applying to multiple institutions and deferring their decisions.
Overall, the data illustrates the challenges faced by Central Christian College of Kansas in maintaining both competitive admission rates and consistent enrollment, highlighting the need for strategic improvements in recruitment and retention efforts. As higher education continues to evolve, institutions must adapt to these trends to ensure their viability and attractiveness to prospective students.

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 at Central Christian College of Kansas

The data from Central Christian College of Kansas over the years presents an intriguing trend in standardized test scores and the proportion of applicants submitting these scores. From 2007 to 2023, the college has maintained a relatively stable number of students submitting SAT scores, with a notable percentage around 30% in recent years. This consistency may reflect a steady interest in the college, as well as the institution's ability to attract a specific demographic of students who are prepared for college-level work.

Examining the SAT reading and math scores reveals a gradual increase in the lower and upper quartiles, indicating that the overall academic preparedness of students may be improving. For instance, the 25th percentile scores have seen slight fluctuations but generally remain in a range that suggests a solid foundation among admitted students. The 75th percentile scores also demonstrate a positive trend, signaling that the college is admitting students with higher academic capabilities, particularly in the context of a competitive educational landscape.

The relatively stable submission rate of the ACT scores, alongside the SAT scores, suggests that students are increasingly aware of the importance of standardized testing in the admissions process. However, the college's reliance on these scores may raise questions about the holistic nature of their admissions strategy. In recent years, there has been a growing movement across higher education institutions to consider factors beyond test scores, such as personal essays and extracurricular involvement, to create a more diverse and well-rounded student body.

Overall, the data points towards a college that is navigating the challenges of attracting and admitting students in a changing educational environment, while also striving to maintain academic standards. As the higher education landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Central Christian College adapts its admissions processes to align with contemporary practices and student needs.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 5 in 10

719 applicants in 2025, 52.7% admitted

379 admitted 340 not admitted Yield 34.6%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate272 international (7.4%)
Bachelor's734 international (5.5%)
Master's162 international (12.5%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
15
Psychology, General
14
Business Administration and Management, General
12
Organizational Leadership
4
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
4
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
4
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
3
Human Services, General
3
Elementary Education and Teaching
2
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
2

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other · Master's16 (13% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduates in Central Christian College of Kansas

The data from Central Christian College of Kansas reveals significant insights into the distribution of graduates across different programs. Notably, the Business Administration, Management, and Operations category stands out, with a robust number of master's graduates (22). This indicates a strong interest and potential job market in this field, aligning with national trends where business degrees remain highly sought after due to their versatility in various industries.

Psychology and Criminal Justice also show considerable graduation rates, with 21 and 17 bachelor's degrees awarded, respectively. This reflects a growing societal need for professionals in mental health services and law enforcement, particularly in light of increased focus on mental health awareness and criminal justice reform in recent years.

Interestingly, the data reveals a complete absence of international students among the bachelor's and master's graduates, suggesting a potential area for growth in attracting international talent. The college may benefit from implementing strategies to enhance its appeal to international students, which can diversify the learning environment and enrich the overall academic experience.

Moreover, the education sector, including various teaching programs, has minimal graduation numbers, which may indicate a declining interest in teaching careers. This could pose challenges for future educational workforce sustainability, particularly as the demand for educators continues to evolve.

Overall, the data highlights the importance of aligning academic programs with market demands while also addressing the need for greater inclusivity and diversity within the student body. As higher education institutions adapt to changing societal needs, Central Christian College has opportunities to innovate and attract a broader range of students in the coming years.

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

Businesshas 35 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$54,830
Organizational Leadership.$54,830
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.$54,830
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
Liberal arts has 25 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
General Studies.-
Homeland security has 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.$55,481
Psychology has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$42,629
Parks, recreation, leisure has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Educationhas 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Health professionshas 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other.-
Public administrationhas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Human Services, General.-
Theology has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Pastoral Studies/Counseling.-
Theology and Religious Vocations, Other.-
Communication has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Communication, General.-
Biologyhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-

Students

469 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 54:46 · Freshman retention 45.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (454)

White
246 · 54.2%
Hispanic
86 · 18.9%
Black
61 · 13.4%
Two or more races
22 · 4.8%
Unknown
13 · 2.9%
International
11 · 2.4%
Asian
4 · 0.9%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
12.1%
18–19
33.7%
20–21
22.2%
22–24
9.3%
25 and over
22.2%

Graduate students

Under 22
0.0%
22–24
40.0%
25–29
6.7%
30–34
0.0%
35 and over
53.3%

Data insights

Student Demographics at Central Christian College of Kansas in 2023

The student composition at Central Christian College of Kansas reflects a diverse and dynamic educational environment. In 2023, the institution welcomed 112 new undergraduate students, of which 62.5% were male and 37.5% were female. This gender distribution indicates a healthy representation of males among the new entrants, though it also highlights an opportunity for the college to attract more female students in the future.

Among the continuing undergraduate students, there were 313 individuals, with a more balanced gender ratio of 43.1% male and 56.9% female. This shift suggests that the college is successfully retaining a larger number of female students in their programs, potentially indicating a supportive atmosphere for women in academia.

The transfer student population consisted of 39 individuals, predominantly male at 69.2%. This high male ratio may reflect broader trends in transfer student demographics, where males often have higher transfer rates. In contrast, the graduate student body, comprising 34 students with a significant male majority of 76.5%, further emphasizes the gender disparity in certain advanced programs.

The data also highlights the ethnic diversity among students, particularly within the new undergraduate group, where White students made up a notable portion of the cohort. However, the specifics on other ethnic groups and their ratios were not provided, which could be an area for the college to enhance its reporting for better transparency and inclusivity.

Overall, Central Christian College's demographics present an interesting snapshot of a college community that is evolving towards greater gender balance in certain categories while still facing challenges in attracting a more diverse student body across all classifications.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Central Christian College of Kansas

The age composition data for students at Central Christian College of Kansas reveals interesting trends about the demographics of the student body. The largest group of students is found in the 18-19 age category, with a total of 138 students (75 males and 63 females). This aligns with national trends where many students enroll in college immediately after high school, indicating that the institution attracts a significant number of traditional-aged students.

As we progress through the age brackets, the number of students decreases. For example, the 20-21 age group consists of 89 students, while those aged 22-24 drop to 63. This decline may suggest a trend of students either graduating within a few years or opting for employment instead of continuing their education immediately.

Interestingly, the data shows a notable presence of mature students in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups, with 59 and 52 students, respectively. This could reflect a growing trend in higher education, where older adults return to school to enhance their qualifications or shift careers. The 40-49 age group also has a respectable number of students, suggesting that lifelong learning is becoming more common.

Gender composition is another critical aspect, with the number of female students generally surpassing that of male students in most age categories, highlighting a potential shift towards a more female-dominated educational environment. This trend is consistent with broader societal changes in education, where women are increasingly pursuing higher education at higher rates than men.

Overall, the data illustrates a diverse and dynamic student population at Central Christian College, encompassing traditional students and non-traditional learners, which enhances the educational experience for all.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates2.4%

11 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.3%2017: 0.8%2018: 2.2%2019: 5.1%2020: 2.2%2021: 1.4%2022: 1.4%2023: 1.5%2024: 1.6%2025: 2.4%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students6.7%

1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2022

0% 5% 10% 2022: 0.0%2023: 5.9%2024: 5.6%2025: 6.7%
2022Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends of International Students at Central Christian College of Kansas

The data on international students at Central Christian College of Kansas reveals significant fluctuations over the years. Starting in 2004, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population was relatively low, at just 2.5%. This figure experienced a gradual increase, reaching a peak of 5.10% in 2019, indicating a growing interest among international students in the college's undergraduate offerings.

However, the following years saw a stark decline in both the total number of undergraduate students and the international student population. By 2022, the percentage of international students had dropped to 1.44%, and although there was a slight recovery in 2023, with the percentage increasing to 1.49%, it still reflects a lower trend compared to previous years.

Interestingly, the data for graduate students was only available for 2023, showing a mere 5.88% of graduate students being international, which suggests that Central Christian College may need to enhance its appeal to this demographic in its graduate programs.

This trend is not isolated to Central Christian College; many institutions across the United States have experienced similar fluctuations influenced by global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected international travel and enrollment. As colleges strive to attract a diverse student body, it is crucial for Central Christian College to reassess its strategies and foster an inclusive environment that appeals to international students. This approach may help reverse the declining trend and enhance the diversity of the student body in the coming years.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$30,450

Undergraduate tuition
$21,000
Room and board
$9,450
Graduate tuition
$11,800
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 29% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 24%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$11.5M

Tuition and fees
$4.3M37.3%
Gifts and private grants
$2.6M22.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.3M20.0%
Investment return
$964K8.4%
Sales and services of educational activities
$617K5.4%
Government grants and contracts
$174K1.5%
Other
$553K4.8%

Expenses$10.1M

Institutional support
$3.9M38.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$2.7M26.6%
Student services
$1.4M14.1%
Instruction
$1.2M12.4%
Academic support
$638K6.3%
Other
$225K2.2%

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.

All faculty
$40,810peers $65,931

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · NCCAA · Sooner Athletic Conference

Sooner Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer4119
Baseball45-
Basketball2718
Volleyball1223
Wrestling157
Softball-20
Golf65
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7-
Cross Country-2
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Baseball61-
Soccer3723
Basketball3813
Softball-25
Volleyball815
Wrestling1013
Golf83
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer4324
Baseball57-
Basketball3712
Volleyball1019
Softball-27
Wrestling1610
Golf116

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Central Christian College of Kansas:

  1. Kansas State University - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News rankings, Kansas State University is a comprehensive university known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.

  2. University of Kansas - This comprehensive university ranks 151 in 2024. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly recognized for its research initiatives.

  3. University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - Ranked 124, the University of Oklahoma is a prominent institution known for its excellent programs in meteorology, engineering, and the arts.

  4. Creighton University - This university ranks 124 and is known for its strong emphasis on health sciences, law, and business education.

  5. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - With a rank of 159, this university offers a comprehensive range of programs and is particularly well-regarded for its research facilities.

  6. University of Arkansas - Ranked 178, the University of Arkansas is notable for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.

  7. Iowa State University - This comprehensive university ranks 115 and is especially recognized for its engineering and agricultural programs.

  8. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - Ranked 185, Oklahoma State University offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in agriculture and engineering.

These institutions provide diverse educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence in various fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
26
Drug referrals
21
Rape
2
Aggravated assault
1
Motor vehicle theft
1
Weapons arrests
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Central Christian College of Kansas

The crime statistics at Central Christian College of Kansas present an intriguing narrative over the years. From 2013 to 2023, there has been a noticeable fluctuation in the average crime rates per 1,000 students. Notably, the year 2022 witnessed a significant spike with an average rate of 14.39 per 1,000 students, which is alarmingly high compared to previous years. This was followed closely by 2023, which recorded an average of 14.71, indicating a potential trend of rising crime rates on campus.

Breaking down the types of crimes reported, we see that gun arrests and drug-related incidents have been consistently present, albeit at varying levels. In 2022, the increase in incidents like domestic violence and assaults could suggest a growing concern regarding safety on campus, reflecting broader societal issues regarding violence and substance abuse.

The apparent decline in crime rates in 2017, where only 0.39 incidents per 1,000 students were recorded, raises questions about the effectiveness of campus safety measures during that period. However, the subsequent increase in 2019 and beyond suggests that more focus on crime prevention and student support services may be needed.

Overall, the data from Central Christian College serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a safe campus environment and the necessity for proactive measures to address the underlying issues contributing to these crime rates. As campus safety continues to be a significant concern across educational institutions, ongoing evaluation and intervention will be crucial in fostering a secure learning environment for all students. For more insights on crime rates calculation, refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

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.