Lincoln University
Lincoln University is a public university in Jefferson City, MO ranked #1722 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C, and enrolling about 1,357 undergraduates. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Information Science/Studies.
Academically, students benefit from a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, 50.5% first-year retention, and 22.1% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $12,484, about $4,514 less than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -35.5%, roughly 120.8 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $32,185. That's about $11,503 below national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Lincoln University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Lincoln University graduates 22.1% of students within six years and keeps 50.5% of first-year students. Affordability earns an A- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Lincoln University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $9,290 |
| Books and Supplies | $2,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $10,552 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,554 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $21,265 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 46.3% of Lincoln University students receive Pell Grants — above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $9,052 to $21,265 depending on family income. Use Lincoln University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $19,355/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $21,265/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $32,185
- 10-Year Median Earnings $32,185
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $19,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 32.6%
- Employment Rate 90.0%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Lincoln University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Lincoln University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Lincoln University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Lincoln University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Lincoln University graduates earn $32,185 median, the -35.5% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,357
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 50.5%
- Graduation Rate 22.1%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 13:1
How to Get Into Lincoln University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Lincoln University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of Not reported, Lincoln University is selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Lincoln University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing, and Criminal Justice and Corrections draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 13.8%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 12.8%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 8.2%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 6.9%
- Biology, General 6.9%
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services 5.9%
See more majors
- Social Work 5.6%
- Agriculture, General 4.9%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $76,451
- 2. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $66,592
- 3. Information Science/Studies $50,882
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Business Administration, Management and Operations $49,972
- 5. Criminal Justice and Corrections $37,632
- 6. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas $36,614
- 7. Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities $36,205
- 8. Biology, General $35,467
- 9. Health-Related Knowledge and Skills $35,426
- 10. Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods $33,262
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $76,451—130% more than Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods ($33,262). Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Lincoln University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 42 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degree, 29 graduates)
- Criminal Justice and Corrections (Bachelor's Degree, 25 graduates)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 21 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 21 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (27 programs)▼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Biology, General
- Foods, Nutrition, and Related Services
- Social Work
- Journalism
- Agriculture, General
- Information Science/Studies
- General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Psychology, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Political Science and Government
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Special Education and Teaching
- History
- English Language and Literature, General
- Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Public Administration
- Physics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Chemistry
Online Master's Degrees (9 programs)▼
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Social Sciences, Other
- Sociology
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Natural Sciences
- History
- Agriculture, General
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (3 programs)▼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Education, Other
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (2 programs)▼
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- History
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,357
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 39.8%
- Female Students 60.2%
- Caucasian 28.4%
- Asian 0.7%
- Hispanic 3.6%
- Black 53.2%
- Pell Grant Recipients 46.3%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Lincoln University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Lincoln University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Lincoln University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Lincoln University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Lincoln University has a diverse student body, with 28.4% identifying as White. Women make up 60.2% of undergraduates.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Lincoln University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Lincoln University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Lincoln University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1722 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $12,484 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $32,185 median earnings. The 22.1% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 50.5% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Lincoln University's Strengths
Ranked #1722 with a C grade, Lincoln University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Lincoln University excel at providing affordable education ($12,484 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Lincoln University's 50.5% retention and 22.1% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($32,185 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Lincoln University and $12,484 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 22.1% six-year graduation rate sits 40.4 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 50.5% first-year retention is 26.3 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- -35.5% return on investment is 120.8 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $32,185 run about 26% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $12,484 is roughly $7,415 lower than the national median of $19,899.
Helpfulness for Students
- 13:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 50.5% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 90.0% employment rate within three years sits 21.8 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Lincoln University is a public university based in Jefferson City, MO and earns a C overall grade. It holds a #1722 national ranking Category results include Completion (C-), Support (C), Career Outcomes (B-), and Affordability (A-).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Student momentum is strong: 50.5% retention and 22.1% six-year graduation. Return on investment currently measures -35.5% for this program.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $12,484 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $21,265.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $8,781 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $19,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 46.3% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $32,185 six years after entry. This is roughly 26% below typical U.S. college outcomes.
The three-year employment rate is close to 90.0%.
Plan around an ROI of about -35.5% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
This institution has not reported a current acceptance rate.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Lincoln University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Contact Information
- Address Jefferson City, MO 65101
- Website www.lincolnu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
- Endowment$2.9M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate29.8%