MidAmerica Nazarene University
The Vibe Check
MidAmerica Nazarene University offers a tightly-knit, faith-based community where students are not just a number but a known face on campus. The atmosphere feels supportive and personal, with a focus on character development alongside academics. It’s a place where you can expect close relationships with professors and a strong sense of belonging.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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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
MNU is recognized for its strong professional programs, particularly in Health Professions and Business, designed to get students career-ready. The small class sizes foster direct, hands-on learning with accessible faculty who prioritize teaching over research. While research opportunities exist, the academic focus is heavily geared toward practical application and internship experiences.
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 Olathe
Olathe is a classic suburban city where students often enjoy local parks, trails, and the historic downtown area for casual hangouts. For more vibrant nightlife and entertainment, students typically head 30 minutes west to downtown Kansas City for its renowned restaurants, sports venues, and cultural districts. On campus, life revolves around athletic events and student-led activities.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($62,972):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Olathe campus is generally considered safe with a visible campus security presence and a low-crime suburban setting. The surrounding area is a quiet, family-oriented community, which contributes to a secure environment for students.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Highly personalized attention from professors due to very small class sizes.
- ✓ Strong, career-focused programs in high-demand fields like Nursing and Business.
- ✓ Supportive, faith-infused community that fosters personal growth and belonging.
- ✓ Suburban Kansas location offers a quiet study environment with easy access to Kansas City.
Cons
- ✗ The 44% graduation rate is significantly below the national average, which can be a red flag.
- ✗ Limited campus diversity compared to larger public universities.
- ✗ The 61% retention rate suggests some students struggle to adapt or transfer out after the first year.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
MNU is primarily known for its strong professional programs in Health Professions (like Nursing) and Business, as well as its commitment to a faith-based, service-oriented education. It is a private Christian university affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene, emphasizing character development and community engagement alongside academic rigor.
No, MidAmerica Nazarene University has a fairly high acceptance rate of 73.46%, making it an accessible option for many students. With an average SAT score of 1016, applicants with grades and test scores in the average range have a good chance of admission. A strong personal statement and alignment with the university's values can strengthen an application.
Campus life at MNU is characterized by a close-knit, residential community with a strong focus on faith and student activities. Students enjoy a variety of intramural sports, campus events, and club involvement. The suburban setting provides a quiet environment, while its proximity to Kansas City allows for easy trips to city attractions.
The value depends heavily on the student's major and financial aid package. With a net price of $29,520 and median 10-year earnings of $62,972, the ROI is reasonable, especially for high-demand fields like nursing and business where MNU has strong programs. However, the relatively low graduation and retention rates mean students must be proactive to ensure they complete their degree on time to maximize the investment.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 1,354
- In-State Tuition $36,120
- Zip Code 66062
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $29,520, the cost is significant for a private institution, but the 10-year median earnings of $62,972 suggest a solid return on investment for graduates. The 73% acceptance rate indicates it's accessible, and with 28.5% of students receiving Pell Grants, the university serves a diverse economic background. Prospective students should aggressively pursue MNU-specific scholarships to lower the sticker price.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.