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Blackburn College

Carlinville, Illinois · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #23 US News

FindU Grade

B+Value
N/ACampus
C+Academics
C-Admissions
BStudent Life
B-Overall

About

Blackburn College is located in Carlinville, Illinois. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 341 students.

blackburn.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$26,758
Out-of-state tuition$26,758
Room & board$9,120
Avg aid package$14,112
Students receiving aid54%
Pell grant recipients54%

Blackburn College is one of the most affordable private colleges in Illinois, emphasizing future value over current net worth. The unique Work Program allows students to earn tuition credits, and there are no out-of-state fees. The college aims to make a meaningful degree attainable for all aspiring students by working with families and various sources to uncover financial solutions.

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Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate80%
Average GPA3.20
Student–faculty ratio9:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$0

Blackburn College is more concerned about a student's future value than their current net worth, making it one of the most affordable private colleges in Illinois. The college has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records, with an acceptance rate ranging from 60 to 69%. The college looks for students who will become valued leaders and contribute to the Blackburn culture.

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Academics

Graduation rate43%
Retention rate58%
Student–faculty ratio9:1
Full-time faculty75%

Blackburn College offers an intimate learning environment with small class sizes and accessible professors. The college emphasizes hands-on learning through its unique Work Program, where students can earn up to 100% of their tuition. The curriculum focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical leadership, fostering a supportive and friendly community.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$46,802
Job placement rate93%
Earn more than HS grad65%
Economic mobility123%
Loan default (3 yr)9%
Loan repayment (3 yr)55%

Blackburn College provides a "four-year head start" by integrating academics with work and service. Students develop professional skills applicable to various job situations after graduation, gaining real-life work and leadership experience. A strong emphasis is placed on career preparation through hands-on learning, internships, and a curriculum designed to make graduates competitive in the job market.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
341Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 55%Male 45%
72% WhiteRacial diversity
White 72%Hispanic 10%Black 5%Asian 1%Other 13%
Greek lifeNo
Campus housingYes

Blackburn College cultivates an inclusive environment where students can find community and belonging. The campus offers a variety of clubs and free on-campus events, such as movie nights and bingo. The college also has 20+ athletic teams participating in NCAA and Club Sports programs, hosting 100+ athletic events each year.

Student reviews

Professors

Current Student

Academically, the smaller class sizes allow for more personal relationships with professors, which I really appreciate. You’re not just a number here faculty actually get to know you and care about your success. I also think more student events and activities would help bring the campus community even closer.

Student

If you are really about your business and want a serious degree, small classes interest you. Blackburn is the right college for you. There are new classes almost every semeter and if you like you can start any organization here. It's a great place to start your own business and help get it off the ground

Campus and vibes

Current Student

The sense of community within athletics and across the whole campus makes it easy to feel connected and supported. Our coaches are encouraging and push us to be our best, and my teammates have become like family. The work program is also something that makes Blackburn stand out. It teaches responsibility, time management, and gives you a real sense of ownership in the campus environment.

Current Student

Overall, I'm proud to be at Blackburn. I'm excited for what this next year holds, both on the soccer field and in the classroom.

Student

Get used to a lot of people knowing your name before you know theirs.

Student

Living on campus is a huge component to your experience here, so avoid commuting or going home every weekend. Once you're on campus, immerse yourself in the culture here; if there's something you feel is missing, you have the power to introduce it! Love books? You can rally up other book-lovers and create an extra-curricular activity group. As a Blackburn student, you have immense influence. It's your job to take charge of your experience here from the first day and to make it an incredible time!

Student

Take chances. Blackburn offers you major opportunities to shine. The college is small, but allows students to take leadership roles in work, clubs and organizations, sports, and classes.

Student

Schedule your time and stick to it. Working an extra 10 hours a week (which lowers tuition and grants valuable work experience) can also take a big chunk out of your free time. Always remember that you're here to learn above all else, so make sure you plan study time as well as fun periods.

Cost and value

Student

Keep an open mind. At Blackburn, you will work in one of the twelve departments on campus, which could include anything from cleaning the dorms to calling prospective students. You may find the work not to your taste, but there is always room to move up in the work program or switch jobs entirely.

Student

Don't be scared by the work program. It's really beneficial and makes you deal with real world problems. Also, don't be afraid to make friends. Everyone is really nice.

About Blackburn College

Blackburn College is committed to ensuring student safety and well-being, benefiting from a relatively low crime rate due to its rural location. The college employs residence life staff, a campus security force, and student involvement to maintain a safe environment. The Campus Community Safety Department works closely with local law enforcement and provides services such as escorts, building security checks, and traffic control.

Blackburn College offers a unique student work program, where students work on campus in various departments, gaining practical skills and reducing tuition costs. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and career readiness, preparing students for success in their chosen fields. The college also offers a Beekeeping Program, providing students with hands-on experience in maintaining apiaries and promoting chemical-free beekeeping.

Blackburn College provides personalized support tailored to international students, including visa guidance and cultural events. The college fosters cultural diversity and has dedicated International Student Services to ease homesickness. The college also has a high retention rate for non-U.S. students, with tailored advising for SEVIS compliance and cultural integration.

Endowment$32,435,612
Avg faculty salary$85,488

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