Benedictine University is a private Catholic institution located in Lisle, Illinois, with a long-standing reputation for providing quality education grounded in values of service, scholarship, and community. Many students who are considering enrolling at Benedictine University often want to know how much the tuition is, what the total cost of attendance might be, and what kinds of financial aid options are available. Understanding the cost of tuition is an essential step for families and students planning their higher education journey. The tuition at Benedictine University varies depending on the program, degree level, and whether a student attends classes on campus or online.
Overview of Benedictine University
Benedictine University was founded in 1887 by the Benedictine monks of St. Procopius Abbey. Over the years, it has grown into a diverse, coeducational institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. The university’s academic structure focuses on fields such as business, health sciences, education, liberal arts, and natural sciences. In addition to the main campus in Lisle, Benedictine also operates branch campuses and offers online learning opportunities to reach students across the country and around the world.
Like most private universities, Benedictine charges tuition and fees that reflect the value of its educational programs, small class sizes, personalized attention, and strong academic reputation. However, tuition can differ based on the student’s program and enrollment status whether they are full-time, part-time, or pursuing an online degree.
Undergraduate Tuition at Benedictine University
For undergraduate students attending Benedictine University on a full-time basis, the tuition for the 2024 2025 academic year is approximately$34,290 per year. This amount covers the cost of tuition for a typical course load of 12 18 credit hours per semester. Part-time students, or those taking fewer than 12 credit hours, are charged on a per-credit-hour basis, which is around$1,145 per credit hour.
In addition to tuition, undergraduate students are also required to pay certain mandatory fees, including technology fees, student activity fees, and registration fees. These additional costs can range between$500 and $1,000 per year, depending on the student’s enrollment and campus activities.
Students who live on campus must also consider housing and meal plan costs. The average room and board fee at Benedictine University ranges from$11,000 to $13,000 per academic year, depending on the type of housing and meal plan selected. Therefore, the total cost of attendance for a full-time undergraduate student living on campus can reach approximately$46,000 to $48,000 per year.
Example of Estimated Annual Cost for an Undergraduate Student
- Tuition $34,290
- Fees $800
- Room and Board $12,000
- Books and Supplies $1,000
- Personal Expenses $1,200
Total Estimated Cost $49,290 per year
This estimate provides a general picture of what a student might expect to pay for one year at Benedictine University. However, many students receive scholarships or financial aid that significantly reduce the total cost.
Graduate Tuition and Fees
Graduate tuition at Benedictine University varies by program. Most master’s degree programs charge tuition based on the number of credit hours. The average tuition rate for graduate programs is approximately$700 to $950 per credit hour. This means that the total cost of a graduate degree depends on the number of credits required for completion, which usually ranges between 30 and 45 credits.
For example
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) around $900 per credit hour
- Master of Public Health (MPH) approximately $750 per credit hour
- Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior about $850 per credit hour
Doctoral programs, such as the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) or the Doctor of Public Health (DrPH), typically cost more, with tuition rates often exceeding$1,000 per credit hour.
Online Tuition at Benedictine University
Benedictine University offers a variety of online degree programs designed for working professionals who need flexibility in their studies. Online tuition rates are generally competitive and may differ slightly from traditional on-campus tuition. The average online tuition for undergraduate programs is around$600 to $700 per credit hour, while online graduate programs range between$750 and $950 per credit hour.
Online programs often have fewer additional fees, and students save on expenses such as housing, transportation, and campus activities. This makes online learning an attractive option for students who prefer to balance work and education while earning a degree from Benedictine University.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Despite the cost of tuition, Benedictine University is committed to making education affordable through its comprehensive financial aid program. Most students receive some form of financial assistance, whether through scholarships, grants, or loans. The university’s financial aid office helps students explore various options to reduce their tuition burden.
Types of Financial Aid Available
- Merit-Based ScholarshipsAwarded to students based on academic achievement, leadership, or extracurricular involvement. These scholarships can range from $5,000 to $20,000 per year.
- Need-Based GrantsOffered to students who demonstrate financial need through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These may include federal or state grants.
- Work-Study ProgramsAllow students to work part-time on campus to earn money that can be applied toward tuition or personal expenses.
- LoansFederal and private loan options are available for students who require additional funding.
Benedictine University also offers scholarships for transfer students, international students, and athletes. For example, transfer students may qualify for scholarships ranging from$10,000 to $18,000annually, depending on their GPA and prior coursework.
Cost Comparison with Other Universities
When comparing tuition costs, Benedictine University’s tuition is similar to other private universities in the Midwest. While public universities may offer lower tuition rates for in-state residents, private institutions like Benedictine often provide more generous scholarships and financial aid packages to offset costs. Additionally, students benefit from smaller class sizes, individualized instruction, and a supportive learning environment that enhances the overall educational experience.
Compared to universities of similar size and reputation, Benedictine’s tuition is moderate. For instance, some nearby private universities charge between$38,000 and $45,000per year for undergraduate tuition, while Benedictine remains slightly more affordable at around$34,000annually.
Payment Plans and Additional Options
Benedictine University provides flexible payment options for students and families who prefer to spread tuition payments throughout the semester. Monthly installment plans are available, allowing students to manage their financial commitments more easily. The university also accepts employer reimbursement programs for working professionals who are pursuing part-time or graduate studies.
Students are encouraged to work closely with the financial aid and student accounts offices to understand payment deadlines, tuition policies, and refund procedures. Planning ahead ensures that students can focus on their studies without financial stress.
International Student Tuition
International students at Benedictine University pay similar tuition rates to domestic students. However, additional expenses such as visa fees, health insurance, and travel costs must be considered. The estimated total cost of attendance for an international undergraduate student is approximately$50,000 to $52,000 per year, including tuition, housing, and other fees.
Benedictine also offers scholarships specifically for international students to help reduce these costs. Academic excellence, English proficiency, and extracurricular involvement are considered during the scholarship evaluation process.
Understanding how much Benedictine University tuition costs is an important part of planning for higher education. While the average annual tuition for undergraduates is about$34,290, students should remember that financial aid, scholarships, and grants can significantly lower the overall expense. Graduate and online tuition rates vary based on the program but remain competitive with other private institutions.
Benedictine University’s commitment to academic excellence, small class sizes, and a values-based education makes it a worthwhile investment for students seeking both personal and professional growth. By exploring financial aid options and making informed financial decisions, students can pursue a quality education at Benedictine University without being overwhelmed by costs. Whether on-campus or online, the university continues to offer accessible, meaningful education for learners from all backgrounds.