McMurry University
The Vibe Check
McMurry University offers a close-knit, supportive campus atmosphere where students are known by name, not just by ID number. With a small enrollment of just over 1,100 students, the environment feels intimate and community-focused, fostering strong relationships between peers and professors. Itโs a place where school spirit runs high, especially during spirited NCAA Division III athletic events, creating a classic small-college feel right in the heart of West Texas.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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โ ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
McMurry's academic strengths lie in its highly regarded programs in Business & Marketing, Education, and Visual & Performing Arts, which are designed for hands-on learning. The small class sizes ensure that teaching quality is personal and engaging, with professors who are dedicated mentors rather than distant lecturers. While research opportunities exist, particularly in the sciences, the focus is more on undergraduate experiential learning and internships than on large-scale faculty-led 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 Abilene
Life in Abilene revolves around the university and the city's growing downtown area, which features coffee shops, local restaurants, and seasonal events like the West Texas Fair & Rodeo. Students often spend weekends exploring the Abilene State Park, catching a show at the historic Paramount Theatre, or cheering on the War Hawks at home games. The city offers a relaxed, friendly pace of life that complements the small-campus experience.
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Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($48,779):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
McMurry University is generally considered a safe campus, with its own campus security department patrolling the grounds. The surrounding Abilene area is a mid-sized city with typical urban precautions needed, but the campus itself provides a secure environment for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- โ Highly personalized attention from professors due to very small class sizes.
- โ Strong sense of community and school spirit in a supportive environment.
- โ Competitive NCAA Division III athletics with a focus on student-athlete experience.
- โ Solid programs in high-demand fields like Business and Education.
Cons
- โ The graduation rate of 37.9% is significantly below the national average, which can be a concern for student persistence.
- โ Limited diversity in a traditional West Texas urban setting.
- โ The small enrollment size may feel restrictive for students seeking a large university environment with vast resources.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
McMurry University is particularly known for its strong programs in Business & Marketing, Education, and Visual & Performing Arts. It is also recognized for its tight-knit, faith-based community (affiliated with the United Methodist Church) and its competitive NCAA Division III athletics, especially in sports like football and baseball. The university prides itself on providing a personalized, hands-on educational experience.
McMurry University has an acceptance rate of 57.65%, making it a moderately selective institution. This means that while it is not as competitive as highly selective schools, admissions are not guaranteed. Applicants are advised to have a solid academic record, with the average admitted student scoring around 1072 on the SAT. A strong application that highlights extracurricular involvement and personal essays can improve your chances.
Campus life at McMurry is characterized by a strong sense of community and engagement. With only about 1,100 students, it's easy to get involved in student organizations, campus ministries, and leadership roles. Greek life is present but not dominant. Students enjoy a supportive atmosphere where they know their classmates and professors well. Weekends often feature athletic events, campus activities, or exploring the city of Abilene.
The value of a McMurry degree depends on the student's major and career goals. With an average net price of $19,988, it is more affordable than many private institutions. However, with a 10-year median earnings of $48,779, students in fields like business, education, and nursing are likely to see a good return on their investment, especially if they graduate on time. The personalized education and strong alumni network can be valuable assets, but the low graduation rate is a factor to consider.
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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 1,575
- In-State Tuition $31,372
- Zip Code 79697
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
At an average net price of $19,988, McMurry presents a more affordable option compared to many private universities, especially with nearly half of the student body receiving Pell Grants. However, with 10-year median earnings of $48,779, graduates need to be strategic about their major to ensure a strong return on investment. The financial value is best realized when students leverage the strong local networks in business and education and minimize debt through scholarships and grants.
๐ Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.