About Ecclesia College
Ecclesia College trains future ministers and church leaders through intensive biblical studies programs. With just 132 students enrolled, this interdenominational Christian college creates an intimate learning environment in rural Arkansas. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personal mentorship as students prepare for ministry careers. Most graduates pursue roles in pastoral ministry, missions work, and Christian education.
Students pay an average of $24,294 annually after financial aid, despite the sticker price of $16,850 tuition. More than half of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the school's mission to serve families with limited financial resources. Graduates earn a median of $40,650 ten years after graduation with typical debt loads of just $13,019. The monthly loan payment of $138 remains manageable for those entering ministry fields, though the 36.5% six-year graduation rate suggests academic challenges for some students.
The Royals compete in six USCAA sports with 102 total athletes receiving $360,075 in athletic scholarships. Men comprise 60% of the student body while the campus maintains surprising diversity with equal populations of Black and Hispanic students at 14% each. The 40.9% retention rate indicates that this intense, faith-focused environment isn't the right fit for everyone.
Students pay an average of $24,294 annually after financial aid, despite the sticker price of $16,850 tuition. More than half of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the school's mission to serve families with limited financial resources. Graduates earn a median of $40,650 ten years after graduation with typical debt loads of just $13,019. The monthly loan payment of $138 remains manageable for those entering ministry fields, though the 36.5% six-year graduation rate suggests academic challenges for some students.
The Royals compete in six USCAA sports with 102 total athletes receiving $360,075 in athletic scholarships. Men comprise 60% of the student body while the campus maintains surprising diversity with equal populations of Black and Hispanic students at 14% each. The 40.9% retention rate indicates that this intense, faith-focused environment isn't the right fit for everyone.
Academics & Faculty
Ecclesia College centers its academics around ministry training and biblical studies as an interdenominational Christian institution. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention in this faith-focused environment. However, the 31.48% four-year graduation rate and 40.91% retention rate suggest students face significant challenges completing their degrees. The college emphasizes practical ministry preparation alongside traditional coursework. With only 132 students total, classes remain intimate and discussion-based. Students pursue degrees designed to prepare them for pastoral work, missions, and other Christian vocations. The small size allows professors to mentor students individually, though academic rigor and student persistence appear to be ongoing concerns for degree completion.
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 10:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 25.7%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 31.5%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 36.5%
- Retention Rate
- 40.9%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $40,650
- Carnegie Classification
- Baccalaureate College
Campus Life
Ecclesia College sits in rural Arkansas, about 20 minutes from Fayetteville and an hour from Fort Smith. With only 132 students total, you'll know most of your classmates by name within weeks. The campus houses 140 students, meaning nearly everyone lives on campus and forms tight-knit community bonds.
Northwest Arkansas brings hot, humid summers and mild winters with occasional ice storms. You'll need both a winter coat and plenty of sunscreen throughout the year. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name and academic progress personally. With 59.85% male enrollment, the gender balance skews toward men, which is common at ministry-focused institutions.
Weekend life revolves around campus activities and nearby outdoor recreation in the Ozark Mountains. Students often gather for Bible study, intramural sports, and community service projects. The school's interdenominational Christian focus shapes daily chapel services and campus culture. With 98% employment rates after graduation, students see their biblical studies and ministry training translate into real career opportunities. The small size means every student matters in campus leadership and athletic programs.
Northwest Arkansas brings hot, humid summers and mild winters with occasional ice storms. You'll need both a winter coat and plenty of sunscreen throughout the year. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know your name and academic progress personally. With 59.85% male enrollment, the gender balance skews toward men, which is common at ministry-focused institutions.
Weekend life revolves around campus activities and nearby outdoor recreation in the Ozark Mountains. Students often gather for Bible study, intramural sports, and community service projects. The school's interdenominational Christian focus shapes daily chapel services and campus culture. With 98% employment rates after graduation, students see their biblical studies and ministry training translate into real career opportunities. The small size means every student matters in campus leadership and athletic programs.
- Setting
- Rural-Fringe
- Housing Capacity
- 140 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
Campus Safety (2023)
No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 26°–47°F
- July Avg
- 68°–90°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 45.4"
- Annual Snowfall
- 9.5"
Student Demographics
Students come to this Arkansas ministry training college from across the country, with nearly two-thirds arriving from out-of-state. The student body draws more men than women, reflecting the college's focus on pastoral and ministry preparation programs. Over half of students receive Pell Grants, showing the school serves families with limited financial means who prioritize affordable Christian education. The diverse racial composition includes significant Black and Hispanic representation alongside white students. These demographics align with the college's interdenominational mission to train ministry leaders from various backgrounds and communities.
- Men
- 59.9%
- Women
- 40.2%
- White
- 48.5%
- Black
- 14.4%
- Hispanic
- 14.4%
- Asian
- 0.0%
- In-State Students
- 35.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 53.5%
Location
Ecclesia College sits in Springdale, Arkansas, about 10 miles from Fayetteville and 200 miles northwest of Little Rock. The campus draws students from across state lines, with 64.15% coming from outside Arkansas. Springdale anchors the fast-growing Northwest Arkansas corridor, home to Walmart's headquarters and Tyson Foods. The area blends small-town charm with corporate influence, creating opportunities for internships and jobs. Students experience the Ozark foothills' rolling landscapes and outdoor recreation. The region's Christian heritage aligns with the college's interdenominational mission. Students considering colleges in Arkansas may also compare Ecclesia College with similar schools in the region.
- Address
- Springdale, Arkansas 72762
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $40,650
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $37,069
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 49.4%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $138/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $13,019
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Ecclesia College?
Ecclesia College accepts 55.10% of applicants, making admission moderately competitive. The small Christian college focuses primarily on ministry training and biblical studies for its incoming students.
How much does Ecclesia College cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $24,294 annually after aid is applied. With 53.46% of students receiving financial assistance, the college keeps costs relatively manageable for families seeking Christian higher education.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Ecclesia College?
The student-faculty ratio stands at 10:1, allowing for personalized attention in a small academic setting. With only 132 total students enrolled, classes emphasize close mentorship and biblical instruction.
What are the graduation rates at Ecclesia College?
The four-year graduation rate is 31.48%, while the six-year rate reaches 36.50%. These outcomes reflect the college's focus on ministry preparation rather than traditional academic metrics.
Where do Ecclesia College students live on campus?
The college houses students in facilities with a capacity of 140, easily accommodating the small enrollment of 132. The rural-fringe setting in Springdale, Arkansas provides a quiet environment for spiritual and academic growth.
How many athletic programs does Ecclesia College offer?
The Royals compete in 6 varsity sports through the USCAA with 102 total athletes participating. The college awards $360,075 in athletic scholarships, demonstrating a commitment to both spiritual and physical development.
