McKendree University is a private liberal arts university located in Lebanon, Illinois. Founded in 1828, it is one of the oldest colleges in Illinois and offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a wide range of disciplines. Like any institution, McKendree University has its own set of pros and cons that prospective students should consider before making a decision on whether to attend.
Pros:
- Strong academic programs: McKendree University offers over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a variety of disciplines, including business, education, health sciences, and the arts. The university is known for its strong academic programs, and its graduates are well-prepared for careers in their chosen fields.
- Small class sizes: With a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1, classes at McKendree University are small and students have the opportunity to work closely with their professors. This can lead to a more personalized and engaging learning experience.
- Beautiful campus: McKendree University’s campus is located on 235 acres of land and features beautiful architecture, green spaces, and a lake. The campus is known for its beauty and provides a peaceful and relaxing environment for students to study and socialize.
- Active campus life: McKendree University has a vibrant campus life and offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities. This provides students with numerous opportunities to get involved, make new friends, and develop leadership skills.
- Career preparation: McKendree University has a strong focus on career preparation and offers a variety of resources to help students prepare for life after graduation. This includes career counseling, internships, and networking opportunities with alumni and industry professionals.
Cons:
- Limited diversity: McKendree University has a predominantly white student body and has been criticized for its lack of diversity. This can be a negative aspect for students who are looking for a more diverse and inclusive campus community.
- Limited social scene: Lebanon, Illinois is a small town, and there may not be as many social opportunities as larger universities or colleges located in more urban areas. This can be a negative aspect for students who are looking for a vibrant social scene or a variety of extracurricular activities.
- Limited athletic facilities: While McKendree University has a strong athletics program, the university’s athletic facilities are limited. This can be a negative aspect for students who are looking for state-of-the-art facilities for sports and fitness.
- Conservative values: McKendree University is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and has a strong Christian identity. While this can be a positive aspect for some students, it may be a negative aspect for others who do not share the same values or beliefs.
- Expensive tuition: McKendree University’s tuition is higher than many other public universities in Illinois, and the cost of attendance may be a barrier for some students.
In conclusion, McKendree University has its own set of pros and cons that prospective students should consider before making a decision on whether to attend. While the strong academic programs, small class sizes, and beautiful campus can be positive aspects for some students, the limited diversity, social scene, and athletic facilities may be negative aspects for others. Ultimately, students should consider their own personal goals and preferences when making a decision on whether to attend McKendree University.