Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When can I visit McKendree?
A: We recommend our "Preview Days"but are also able to accommodate a visit at any time of the year. Overnight visits are also available. Contact our visit coordinator, Jan Mallrich at 1 800 BEARCAT, ext. 6831 to make arrangements.
Q: Where can I learn more about academic programs at McKendree? For example, what majors do you offer?
A: McKendree offers 6 bachelor degree programs in 37 major areas of study. While our on-campus student body numbers nearly 1,400, more than 50 percent of our classes have fewer than 15 students. McKendree provides a low 15-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Classes are taught by professors, not graduate students or teaching assistants. More than 90 percent of our professors have the highest degrees in their fields
For a list of majors and more detail, click here.
Q: What can you tell me about the Lebanon area?
A: It’s an exciting mixture - a peaceful, residential campus in a small, friendly town, yet just minutes away from the culturally vibrant city of St. Louis where you will find world class entertainment, the arts, professional sports, museums and more. The result is a setting beyond compare that not only provides students with varied social and recreational opportunities, but also opens the door for enrichment, work-related internships, and ultimately, employment.
Q: Can I keep a car on campus?
A: Sure - there's lots of free parking for first-year students.
Q: What kind of athletic programs do you have?
A: McKendree is a competitive member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The Bearcats compete in two conferences: The Mid-States Football Association and the American Midwest Conference.
McKendree participates in 20 varsity sports, 11 men and 9 women.
McKendree boasts a full range of quality athletic facilities. The Leemon Football/Track and Field Complex has a football stadium that seats 3,000 people and an all-weather track. The Melvin Price Convocation Center houses two gymnasiums: The Harry S. Statham Gymnasium for intercollegiate volleyball and basketball and a brand-new recreation center for intramural sports. McKendree has a softball field, a baseball diamond, a soccer stadium and future plans include an aquatic center.
Q: I'm concerned about the cost of college. What is McKendree's approach to financial aid?
A: Given that each family’s financial circumstances are different, we explore options with you and put together advice and assistance that will meet your particular needs. We take genuine pride in knowing that we review every family’s situation on an individual basis. In the end, our simple mission is to make a McKendree education financially possible for every student we admit. For additional information click here.
Q: What kind of library and research facilities do you have?
A: Holman Library provides students with access to its own collection as well as large numbers of electronically catalogued databases throughout the world. The College is also partnered with a number of other libraries throughout the region which allows for interlibrary loans. In short, students have access to an extraordinary number and range of resources for their academic work.
Q: Is there a community service program at MCK?
A: McKendree is well known for its programs in public service which provide students with chances to learn and grow. Whether we are serving our local community or something further a field (recent service trips have been made to Oklahoma and Jamaica), McKendree students enjoy incredible opportunities to explore their world and give back to it.
Q: What is the computer system like at McKendree?
A: The College is blessed with excellent facilities both in academic areas as well as in the dormitories. Students are not required to have their own computer but many choose to bring one to their rooms if living on campus. Students have access to the college's networks and T-1 line and are provided a college e-mail address. That e-mail address stays with the student for their entire time at McKendree and is used to communicate important information throughout the year.
Q: What are the music options at McKendree?
A: The Music Department is larger and stronger than ever, with a current enrollment of 34 majors and 29 minors. Many students who choose not to major or minor in music are nevertheless active participants in one of the performing ensembles, or take lessons in voice, piano, organ, or another instrument. With the recent addition of a degree in Music Education, students now have the opportunity to qualify for an Illinois Special Teaching Certificate in both instrumental and vocal music.
The McK Band is one of the fastest growing groups on campus. Music scholarships are granted to students who intend to major or minor in music. There are also scholarships for participation in the Marching/Pep Band and the Jazz Ensemble, regardless of major. For more information on the Music and Band programs click here.
Q: What type of campus housing is available?
A: McKendree has many different living options for students ranging from traditional residence halls to more apartment-style living for upperclassmen. For details, see our Residence Life Web page.
Q: What is the food like?
A: The College takes pride in providing students with an excellent range of food plan options with the flexibility to meet varying needs. You can find more info at the Ames Dining Hall site.
Q: What can I get involved in outside of class?
A: The options are endless... Whether your interests are political, environmental, community related, musical, athletic, cultural, dramatic, creative, literary and beyond, McKendree needs and wants your involvement. We really are a place where students are welcome and encouraged to participate. Information about clubs and organizations can be found here.
Q: Have another question not answered here? Contact us and we'll get an answer to you right away.