Benedictine College Rankings

Benedictine College, a Catholic, residential liberal arts institution located in Atchison, Kansas, has long been recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, faith formation, and preparing students for meaningful careers in both professional and service-oriented fields. Established with a clear mission to provide a well-rounded, intellectually rigorous education grounded in Catholic values, the college offers a broad array of undergraduate majors that span the liberal arts and sciences, providing students with a diverse and comprehensive educational experience.

Benedictine College’s academic offerings cover a wide range of disciplines, ensuring that students have access to a curriculum that fosters both critical thinking and practical knowledge. Among the many degree programs available are Accounting, Liberal Studies, Art, Mass Communications, Astronomy, Mathematics, Athletic Training, Music, Biochemistry, Biology, Natural Science, Business Administration, Philosophy, Chemistry, Physical Education, Computer Science, Physics & Engineering, Criminology, Political Science, Economics, and Psychology, to name just a few. This wide selection allows students to explore their academic interests and pursue careers in a variety of fields, from the sciences and business to the humanities and the arts.

The college’s Accounting program, for instance, is specifically designed to prepare students for careers as Certified Public Accountants (CPA), Certified Management Accountants (CMA), or accountants in corporate business settings. By offering rigorous coursework that covers accounting principles, financial reporting, and business management, Benedictine College ensures that its graduates are well-equipped to succeed in the competitive field of accounting. The program is particularly notable for its blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, offering students the skills and insights needed to navigate the complexities of the financial world. Moreover, the college’s strong emphasis on ethics, grounded in its Catholic faith, helps students understand the moral dimensions of financial decision-making, an essential aspect of the profession.

In addition to the robust academic programs, Benedictine College places significant emphasis on developing students' character, leadership abilities, and sense of social responsibility. As a Catholic institution, Benedictine College's mission is deeply rooted in the principles of faith, community, and service. The college’s educational philosophy is shaped by the Benedictine tradition, which emphasizes the development of the whole person — mind, body, and spirit. Students are encouraged not only to excel academically but also to engage in service learning, leadership opportunities, and faith-based activities that promote personal growth and a commitment to the common good.

The Benedictine College campus provides an environment that fosters both academic achievement and personal development. Located in Atchison, Kansas, a small town with rich historical and cultural roots, the college benefits from a peaceful, close-knit atmosphere that supports a tight community bond. The college’s residential setup ensures that students live and learn in an environment that promotes collaboration, friendship, and a sense of belonging. Benedictine College’s commitment to the Benedictine tradition also manifests in its focus on prayer, reflection, and communal life, with students encouraged to participate in daily Mass and regular spiritual activities.

Benedictine College has earned significant recognition for its academic achievements and commitment to providing a high-quality education. In the 2011 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges,” the college was ranked 52nd in the top tier of Regional Universities (Midwest), a testament to its overall academic reputation. This ranking places Benedictine College among the most respected institutions in the Midwest, highlighting its ability to provide a high-quality liberal arts education. The college’s recognition in U.S. News as a top-tier institution in the Midwest Master’s category for two consecutive years (2009 and 2010) further underscores its strong academic standing and its ability to offer graduate-level programs of excellence.

Benedictine College is also recognized as one of the top 20 Catholic colleges in America by The Newman Guide to Choosing a Catholic College: What to Look for and Where to Find It, which highlights institutions that are faithful to Catholic teaching and offer a robust spiritual and intellectual formation. This recognition reflects Benedictine College’s commitment to integrating faith and learning, providing students with a college experience that emphasizes not just academic achievement but also moral and spiritual development. The college's deep Catholic identity is integral to its mission, and it strives to instill in its students a sense of responsibility to serve others, particularly in their professional and personal lives.

In addition to its religious and academic accolades, Benedictine College has been named a "best buy" in faithfulness and affordability by the Center for the Study of Catholic Higher Education. This recognition speaks to the college’s ability to offer high-quality education at a price that is accessible for many students and families. Benedictine College prides itself on making Catholic higher education attainable, providing scholarships and financial aid opportunities to ensure that students can graduate without burdensome debt.

Benedictine College’s academic rigor is complemented by its commitment to offering programs that prepare students for careers that have a meaningful impact on society. One area in which the college excels is its teacher education program, which has been nationally recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The college’s Education Department ensures that its graduates are not only well-prepared to become effective educators but also imbued with a sense of mission and service that aligns with the Catholic faith’s emphasis on social justice and service to others. The program combines rigorous coursework with field experience, preparing students to enter the classroom as capable and compassionate teachers.

In addition to the education and accounting programs, Benedictine College also offers degrees in areas such as Mass Communications, Biochemistry, and Political Science, giving students the flexibility to pursue a wide range of careers. The college’s small size enables personalized attention and mentoring, with professors who are dedicated to their students’ academic and professional success. Small class sizes also foster close relationships between students and faculty, creating an environment where students can engage in meaningful discussions, ask questions, and receive individualized support.

Moreover, Benedictine College is actively engaged in fostering student involvement outside of the classroom. The campus is home to a variety of clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities that allow students to pursue their passions, develop leadership skills, and build a strong sense of community. Whether through athletic teams, service organizations, or academic societies, students at Benedictine College are encouraged to participate in campus life, helping them develop the skills necessary for success in the professional world.

Athletics play an important role in student life at Benedictine College, with the college offering a variety of sports teams that compete at the NAIA level. The athletics program is an integral part of the Benedictine College experience, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and character-building. Student-athletes are expected to excel both in their sport and in the classroom, with the college providing support to ensure that academic responsibilities are prioritized alongside athletic commitments.

In conclusion, Benedictine College is an institution that combines academic excellence with a deep commitment to Catholic values and the holistic development of its students. With a broad range of degree programs, a focus on community and service, and a strong emphasis on faith and ethics, Benedictine College provides students with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and lead lives of meaning and purpose. The college’s strong academic reputation, its recognition in national rankings, and its focus on affordability and faithfulness make it an ideal choice for students seeking a high-quality education that is both intellectually enriching and spiritually formative. Whether pursuing a career in education, business, science, or the arts, Benedictine College prepares its students to excel in a rapidly changing world while staying grounded in the timeless values of the Catholic faith.