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Rural Colleges in Indiana

6 schools in Indiana. See our methodology.

Rural Indiana colleges demonstrate remarkable cost efficiency, with Oakland City University delivering a $12,820 net price alongside a 70% graduation rate. These six institutions serve 9,281 students across small towns from Marion to Saint Mary of the Woods, producing graduates who earn between $43,283 and $59,986 annually. The standout performer, Taylor University in Upland, combines a 76.6% graduation rate with strong alumni earnings of $52,198, while Indiana Wesleyan's National & Global campus enrolls 5,808 students at just $16,767 net cost. Indiana's 21st Century Scholars program covers full tuition for qualifying students, making these rural options particularly accessible. Graduates enter a state economy anchored by manufacturing giants like Cummins and pharmaceutical leader Eli Lilly, where healthcare and advanced manufacturing skills command strong salaries. Small enrollment numbers ranging from 217 to 5,808 students create intimate learning environments while maintaining connections to Indiana's industrial base.
6
Schools
$24,510
Avg. Net Price
$51,614
Avg. Earnings
59.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Rural Colleges in Indiana

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Rural-Fringe 5,808 $16,767 37.2%
2 Rural-Distant 470 $12,820 70.0%
3 Rural-Distant 1,890 $24,327 76.6%
4 Rural-Fringe 896 $43,465 52.3%
5 Rural-Distant 217 $25,172
6 Rural-Remote

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Oakland City University stand out among rural Indiana colleges?

Oakland City delivers strong value with a $12,820 net price and 70% graduation rate. Despite serving just 470 students, graduates earn $43,283 annually while benefiting from a 55.7% acceptance rate that maintains selectivity without being prohibitive.

How do graduation rates compare across these rural campuses?

Taylor University leads with 76.6% of students completing their degrees, while rates span from 37.2% at Indiana Wesleyan to 70% at Oakland City. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods achieves 52.3% despite higher costs, reflecting varied student populations and academic approaches.

Is financial aid available for students attending rural Indiana colleges?

Indiana's 21st Century Scholars program covers full tuition for eligible students at participating schools. Net prices range from $12,820 to $43,465, with most schools offering substantial aid packages that make rural education affordable for Indiana families.

What career outcomes can graduates expect from these institutions?

Alumni earnings span $43,283 to $59,986 annually, with Indiana Wesleyan graduates commanding the highest salaries at $59,986. These figures reflect strong connections to Indiana's manufacturing sector, healthcare industry, and employers like Eli Lilly and Cummins.

How selective are admissions at rural Indiana colleges?

Acceptance rates range from 55.7% at Oakland City to 95.2% at Marian University-Ancilla, with Taylor University accepting 74.6% of applicants. Most schools balance accessibility with academic standards, serving students across different preparation levels.

Related

Rural Colleges Nationally All Colleges in Indiana Cheapest Programs in Indiana

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.