About Park University
Students pay an average net price of $15,529 after financial aid, with the same $16,400 tuition rate applying to both in-state and out-of-state students. Graduates earn a median of $56,309 ten years after graduation, while carrying typical debt loads of $21,685. The numbers suggest a reasonable return on investment, though the 30% six-year graduation rate indicates many students take longer to complete their degrees or don't finish at all.
The student body reflects the school's diverse mission, with 72% of students coming from out-of-state and strong representation across racial groups. Park's Pirates compete in 20 NAIA sports with 750 total athletes supported by nearly $4 million in athletic scholarships. The 13:1 student-faculty ratio provides personal attention, though the 57% retention rate suggests the school's flexibility comes with challenges in keeping students engaged through completion.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 13:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 14.2%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 27.3%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 30.0%
- Retention Rate
- 57.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $56,309
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Large)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Software and Media Applications. | Bachelor | $62,887 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $62,260 |
| Management Information Systems and Services. | Bachelor | $61,020 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Bachelor | $53,810 |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | Bachelor | $53,358 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $52,265 |
| Education, General. | Master | $47,260 |
| Human Resources Management and Services. | Bachelor | $45,383 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Bachelor | $43,798 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $42,961 |
Campus Life
The small residential population creates an intimate campus feel, with most social life happening in Kansas City's entertainment districts rather than traditional college parties. Students drive to Crown Center, the Power & Light District, or Westport for nightlife and dining. The 13:1 student-faculty ratio means professors know students by name, especially important given that 72% of students are from out-of-state and many are older than typical college age. Weekend campus life revolves around the Pirates' 20 NAIA sports teams, which attract 750 student-athletes. The university's military-friendly reputation draws veterans and active-duty personnel who appreciate flexible scheduling and online options that work around deployment schedules.
- Setting
- Suburb-Large
- Housing Capacity
- 526 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1875
Campus Safety (2023)
33 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Violence | 0 | 0 | 12 | 0 |
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 0 | 0 | 6 | 1 |
| Burglary | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
| Rape | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Aggravated Assault | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 |
| Fondling | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 22°–39°F
- July Avg
- 71°–90°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 38.1"
- Annual Snowfall
- 11.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 54.3%
- Women
- 45.7%
- White
- 41.4%
- Black
- 17.9%
- Hispanic
- 23.4%
- Asian
- 2.9%
- In-State Students
- 27.7%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 38.6%
Location
- Address
- Parkville, Missouri 64152-3795
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $56,309
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $60,674
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $42,200
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 48.4%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $230/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $21,685
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Park University known for academically?
Park University built its reputation serving working adults and military students through flexible online programs. The school maintains a 13:1 student-faculty ratio across its programs. Founded in 1875, Park has evolved into a leader in distance education while keeping traditional campus offerings.
How much does Park University cost after financial aid?
Park University charges $16,400 for both in-state and out-of-state tuition, with an average net price of $15,529 after aid. Students from families earning under $30,000 pay just $13,719 on average. With room and board, total attendance costs reach $26,578 annually.
What are the graduation rates at Park University?
Park University graduates 30% of students within six years and 27.3% within four years. The retention rate stands at 57.49% from first to second year. These rates reflect the school's focus on non-traditional students who often balance education with work and family responsibilities.
Where is Park University located and what is campus life like?
Park University sits in Parkville, Missouri, a large suburban setting near Kansas City. The campus houses only 526 students in residence halls, reflecting the school's emphasis on commuter and online learners. The Pirates compete in NAIA athletics with 20 varsity sports and 750 total athletes.
What do Park University graduates earn after college?
Park University graduates earn a median of $56,309 ten years after graduation, with an employment rate of 88.1%. Recent graduates start at $51,212 in their first year post-graduation. Typical monthly loan payments are $230, with median debt of $21,685.
Does Park University serve a diverse student population?
Park University enrolls 5,250 students with notable diversity: 41.41% white, 23.39% Hispanic, and 17.90% Black students. The student body is 54.32% male and 45.68% female. Most students come from out-of-state, with only 27.68% being Missouri residents, reflecting the school's national online reach.
