Lincoln Christian University: $15,400 Tuition

$15,400Tuition

44Students

58%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$43,038Earnings

#21 in IllinoisPrivate nonprofit4-yearData: 2023-24Christian Churches and Churches of Christ

About Lincoln Christian University

Lincoln Christian University prepares students for ministry and Christian service with an intensely personal approach. Just 44 students attend this small Christian university in central Illinois. The 2:1 student-faculty ratio means you'll know your professors well. LCU has deep roots in the Restoration Movement and attracts students seeking biblical education and ministry training.

Students pay an average net price of $17,610 after aid, with every student receiving some institutional grant money. The typical graduate carries $20,250 in debt and earns a median salary of $43,038 ten years after graduation. Monthly loan payments average $215. While starting salaries may be modest at $32,741, the low debt load keeps payments manageable for ministry-bound graduates.

The student body skews heavily male at 70.45%, reflecting the school's focus on pastoral training. Most students come from Illinois and surrounding states, with 67.21% from in-state. The 98.2% employment rate suggests graduates find work, though many enter ministry roles that don't always offer high salaries. The 58.2% six-year graduation rate reflects the challenges some students face balancing demanding ministry preparation with financial pressures.

Academics & Faculty

Lincoln Christian University centers its academic mission on preparing students for Christian ministry and service careers. The 2:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intensely personal learning environment where professors can mentor each of the 44 enrolled students individually. The university offers specialized programs in biblical studies, Christian education, and ministry leadership that attract students seeking vocational training in church work. With a 61% four-year graduation rate, most students complete their ministry preparation on schedule. The small size means students work closely with faculty on practical ministry experience and theological study. Every student receives institutional grants averaging $13,722, making the specialized Christian education more accessible to families committed to ministry careers.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 2:1
Full-Time Faculty: 83.3%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 60.9%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 58.2%
Retention Rate: 0.0%
Median Earnings (10 years): $43,038
Carnegie Classification: Master's University (Small)

Campus Life

Lincoln Christian University feels more like an extended family than a traditional college campus. With just 44 students total, you'll know everyone's name by the end of your first week. The student-faculty ratio of 2:1 means professors become mentors who track your progress closely. About 70% of students are men, reflecting the school's focus on ministry preparation.

The small-town Lincoln setting sits about 30 miles northeast of Springfield, putting you in classic Midwest farm country. You'll definitely need a heavy winter coat for Illinois winters and layers for humid summers. The Christian Churches and Churches of Christ affiliation shapes daily life through chapel services and Bible study groups. Weekend activities center around ministry work, small group gatherings, and trips to Springfield for dining or entertainment. Students often participate in local church services or community outreach programs. The tight-knit community means campus traditions involve everyone, from prayer circles to service projects. Nearly 100% of students receive institutional grants averaging $13,722, making this affordable ministry training accessible to most families.

Setting: Town-Distant
Calendar System: Semester

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 18°–33°F
July Avg: 64°–85°F
Annual Precipitation: 39.6"
Annual Snowfall: 20.5"

Student Demographics

Lincoln Christian University draws students serious about ministry and Christian service, with men making up about 70% of the student body. This reflects the school's focus on pastoral training and church leadership preparation. Most students come from Illinois and surrounding Midwest states, giving the university a strong regional presence in Christian education. The student body is predominantly white but includes meaningful Black representation. Nearly 40% receive Pell Grants, showing the school serves working-class families called to ministry. The tight-knit community of just 44 students creates an intensive, mentorship-focused environment.

Men: 70.5%
Women: 29.6%
White: 79.6%
Black: 11.4%
Hispanic: 2.3%
Asian: 2.3%
In-State Students: 67.2%
Pell Grant Recipients: 39.1%

Location

Lincoln Christian University sits in Lincoln, Illinois, about 30 miles northeast of Springfield, the state capital. With just 44 students enrolled, this small Christian university operates in a classic Midwest town setting. Lincoln itself has around 14,000 residents and serves as the Logan County seat in central Illinois farm country. The campus draws 67% of its students from within Illinois, reflecting its regional appeal. The town offers a quiet, close-knit environment typical of rural Illinois communities, with wide-open agricultural landscapes surrounding the area. The 2:1 student-faculty ratio means personalized attention in this intimate academic setting. Students considering colleges in Illinois may also compare Lincoln Christian University with similar schools in the region.

Address: Lincoln, Illinois 62656-2111

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $43,038
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $28,100
Loan Repayment Rate: 56.2%
Monthly Loan Payment: $215/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $20,250

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the student body like at Lincoln Christian University?

The university enrolls just 44 students, making it one of the smallest Christian universities in Illinois. Men make up 70% of the student body, reflecting the school's focus on training ministers and church leaders.

How much does Lincoln Christian University cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $17,610 after aid, with tuition set at $15,400 regardless of residency. Every student receives institutional grants averaging $13,722, helping offset costs at this ministry-focused institution.

What are class sizes like at Lincoln Christian University?

The student-faculty ratio is an exceptionally low 2:1, meaning students get highly personalized attention from professors. This intimate learning environment supports the university's mission of preparing students for Christian ministry and service.

How successful are graduates from Lincoln Christian University?

About 58% of students graduate within six years, and the employment rate reaches 98.2%. Graduates earn a median salary of $43,038 after ten years, reflecting careers in ministry and Christian service rather than high-paying corporate roles.

Where is Lincoln Christian University located?

The campus sits in Lincoln, Illinois, a small town distant from major metropolitan areas. About 67% of students come from within Illinois, drawn to this tight-knit Christian community in the heart of the Prairie State.

Does Lincoln Christian University have good student retention?

The retention rate data shows 0%, which appears to reflect the university's transition period or data reporting issues. However, the 61% four-year graduation rate suggests students who stay committed to their ministry calling do complete their degrees.