Judson University
The Vibe Check
Judson University offers a tight-knit, faith-centered community where students are not just a number but part of a family. With a small enrollment of under 800 students, the campus feels intimate and supportive, fostering deep connections with peers and professors. It feels like a place where you can be genuinely known and encouraged to grow both academically and personally.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Judson's academic strengths lie in its professional programs, particularly in Business, Architecture, and its unique Park and Recreation Management program. The small class sizes ensure that teaching is personal and interactive, with professors who are invested in student success. While research opportunities are available, they are often more focused on undergraduate involvement and practical application rather than large-scale research projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Elgin
Elgin is a mid-sized city on the Fox River offering a mix of urban and suburban experiences. Students can explore local parks, the Fox River Trail, downtown restaurants, and the historic Elgin Tower Building. For more extensive entertainment, Chicago is about 35 miles west, providing easy access to major city attractions via the nearby Metra train line.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($56,313):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Judson's campus is generally considered safe, with standard campus security measures in place. The surrounding Elgin area has typical urban considerations, so students should practice common-sense safety precautions, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly personalized attention from professors due to very small class sizes.
- ✓ Strong, faith-integrated programs in unique fields like Architecture and Park & Recreation Management.
- ✓ Significantly lower sticker price compared to many private university peers.
- ✓ Close-knit community that fosters deep friendships and support networks.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are below the national average for private institutions.
- ✗ Limited on-campus amenities and social scene due to the small enrollment size.
- ✗ Location requires a car or train to access major city attractions and nightlife.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Judson University is known for its strong Christian mission integrated into academics, particularly in its professional programs. It holds a notable reputation for its Architecture program, one of the few faith-based architecture degrees in the country, as well as its well-regarded Business, Psychology, and Park and Recreation Management programs. The university is also recognized for its commitment to service and leadership development within a supportive community.
No, Judson University is not highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 63.12%, it is considered a moderately selective institution. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 985, and the average ACT score is typically between 19-25. While the admissions process is holistic, the relatively high acceptance rate means that students with solid academic records have a good chance of admission.
Campus life at Judson is intimate and community-focused, with a total enrollment of just 780 students. This small size means students form close relationships with peers and faculty, and it's easy to get involved in campus activities and leadership roles. The university has a strong faith-based community with chapel services and Christian life programs, while also offering a variety of clubs and NCAA Division II athletic teams for student engagement.
Judson University can be a worthwhile investment, especially for students seeking a faith-based education in a supportive environment. With an average net price of $25,027, it is more affordable than many private universities. The 10-year median earnings of $56,313 for graduates provide a positive return on investment, particularly for those entering fields like Business and Architecture. However, prospective students should carefully compare costs and consider their intended major's earning potential to ensure it aligns with their financial goals.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 888
- In-State Tuition $30,910
- Zip Code 60123
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $25,027, Judson is priced competitively for a private university, especially with nearly 40% of students receiving Pell Grants. The 10-year median earnings of $56,313 suggest a reasonable return on investment, particularly for graduates in high-demand fields like Business and Architecture. However, students should be proactive with scholarships and financial aid to minimize debt, as the sticker price is still significant.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.