About McKendree
Nestled comfortably among the quiet streets and historic homes of Lebanon, the lofty steeple of Bothwell Chapel rises prominently above the outline of lush trees that dapple the campus of McKendree University. A simple, yet stately herald of higher education, the chapel stands as a symbol of the institution’s rich history and continued reputation for excellent academics.
In 1828, McKendree University was founded by frontier Methodists, making it the first college established in Illinois. Since that time, the classes, programs and students have evolved to fit current trends; however, one element has remained steady: McKendree’s commitment to providing students with the best education and resources needed to accomplish their goals.
Serving a student body of approximately 1400, the university offers six Bachelor degree programs in 40 major areas of study and has recently expanded its graduate school services. McKendree now gives students the opportunity of earning a Master’s degree in Education, Professional Counseling, Business Administration and Nursing in addition to a new curriculum of off-campus courses known as AiM (Accelerated Instruction with McKendree). Small class sizes consisting of on average 16 students to one professor allow for personal interaction and create a more effective learning environment. With a vast array of degree selections and methods of attainment, the university prides itself in the fact that 97 percent of its graduates are enrolled in additional schooling or have a full-time career within six months of graduation.
Students attending McKendree can choose to participate in any of the 20 varsity sports the university has to offer or become involved in the countless clubs designed to fit all interests. From an impressive music program to a passionate campus ministries team, McKendree provides numerous ways for students to learn from each other and give back to the community. Student volunteer work is highly encouraged by the university in the belief that public service not only benefits those with a need, but it also gives student workers a way of viewing their world from new perspectives.
For over 180 years, McKendree has played a vital role in the Lebanon community and continues to serve its students in ways that extend beyond merely the walls of a classroom.
McKendree University's 100-acre campus in Lebanon, Illinois is 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis. Our Louisville, Kentucky campus is located at
10168 Linn Station Road and our Radcliff campus is located at 1635 W. Lincoln Trail Blvd., Radcliff, Kentucky. There also is a McKendree Center at Scott AFB.
When you visit our campus you will notice mature trees, beautiful grounds, and 28 buildings - several of which have been cited by the National Register for Historical Buildings. In Lebanon (pop. 4,000), McKendree students enjoy the security and sense of community a small town provides. Plus, McKendree students are minutes away from the bustling St. Louis Metro East area with a total population of more than 100,000, where there are extensive opportunities for shopping, dining, recreation and entertainment, including:
- Cultural resources
- Professional sporting events
- World-class shopping, dining and entertainment
- Career and internship opportunities