About Olney Central College
The financial picture makes sense for rural families. After aid, students typically pay $9,968 per year, though those from families earning under $30,000 pay just $8,468. Graduates earn a median of $37,533 ten years after enrollment. With typical debt of only $6,500 and monthly loan payments of $69, the investment pays off quickly. The 95.7% employment rate shows employers value what students learn here.
The Blue Knights compete in four NJCAA sports with 71 total athletes sharing $375,899 in athletic scholarships. The 11:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know every student by name. About one-third of students receive Pell Grants, reflecting the college's mission to serve working-class families in rural Illinois.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 11:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 52.0%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 62.1%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $37,533
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $20,140 |
Campus Life
Winter coats are essential here, as central Illinois sees snow and freezing temperatures from December through February. Since this is a commuter school with 98.35% of students coming from in-state, most live at home or in nearby apartments rather than on campus. Weekend activities center around the Blue Knights athletics programs, which offer four varsity sports for 71 student athletes. The small-town setting means entertainment often involves driving to larger cities for shopping or nightlife. Students frequently gather at local diners and participate in community events. The close-knit environment creates strong bonds, with many students forming study groups and lasting friendships despite the rural location.
- Setting
- Town-Remote
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Founded
- 1963
Campus Safety (2023)
2 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 20°–37°F
- July Avg
- 65°–87°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 47.4"
- Annual Snowfall
- -766.1"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 42.8%
- Women
- 57.2%
- White
- 89.8%
- Black
- 1.5%
- Hispanic
- 4.0%
- Asian
- 0.9%
- In-State Students
- 98.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 34.1%
Location
- Address
- Olney, Illinois 62450
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $37,533
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $38,867
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $27,100
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 59.0%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $69/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $6,500
Frequently Asked Questions
How competitive is admission to Olney Central College?
Olney Central College maintains an open enrollment policy typical of community colleges, welcoming students regardless of previous academic performance. The college serves 549 students in rural southeastern Illinois and focuses on providing accessible higher education to the local community. Nearly all students (98.35%) come from within Illinois, reflecting the school's strong ties to the region.
What does Olney Central College cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $9,968 annually after financial aid is applied. In-state tuition starts at $4,390, making it an affordable option for Illinois residents. About 34% of students receive Pell Grants, and the typical monthly loan payment after graduation is just $69.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Olney Central College?
The student-faculty ratio is 11:1, allowing for personalized attention in small classes. This intimate learning environment helps students build close relationships with instructors. The college is known for workforce training programs and transfer pathways that prepare students for four-year universities or immediate employment.
What are the job prospects for Olney Central College graduates?
Graduates achieve a 95.7% employment rate, reflecting the college's strong focus on career preparation. The median earnings one year after graduation are $31,252, rising to $37,533 after ten years. The college's workforce training programs are designed to meet the needs of employers in rural southeastern Illinois.
What is campus life like at Olney Central College?
The campus serves 549 students with a 57% female and 43% male split in a small-town setting. The Blue Knights compete in NJCAA athletics with 4 varsity sports and 71 total athletes. The college distributes $375,899 in athletic scholarships, supporting student-athletes in this close-knit community environment.
Does Olney Central College have a good graduation rate?
The six-year graduation rate is 62.10%, which is solid for a community college serving a rural population. Founded in 1963, the college has built a reputation for helping students complete their educational goals efficiently. The low median debt of $6,500 means students can focus on their studies without overwhelming financial pressure.
