Blackburn College

Blackburn College, located in Carlinville, Illinois, is a private, four-year institution with a strong liberal arts focus. Established in 1837, it is unique as one of only a few federally recognized work colleges in the United States, and the only one with an entirely student-managed work program. This distinctive approach allows students to gain valuable work experience and leadership skills while also contributing to the affordability of their education.

Academics

Blackburn College offers a diverse range of undergraduate degrees across 35 majors within 20 broad fields of study. Popular majors include Business, Criminal Justice and Safety Studies, and Elementary Education. The college emphasizes a hands-on learning approach, integrating practical experience with academic study across its disciplines, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1. Blackburn also provides teacher certification programs in various subjects, including Elementary Education, Secondary Education, and Special Education.

International Students

Blackburn College welcomes international students from around the globe, with 1% of its student body comprising international students. The college is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Support services for international students include assistance with the admission process, F-1 student visas, and financial aid. Applicants typically need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Campus & Location

Blackburn College's 80-acre campus is situated in Carlinville, Illinois, a small, rural community. Carlinville offers a quiet environment conducive to focused study, located approximately an hour north of St. Louis, Missouri. The campus features 13 academic/administrative buildings, 6 residence halls, and various athletic facilities, many of which were co-constructed by students through the Work Program.

Career Outcomes

Blackburn College's unique Work Program plays a significant role in preparing students for their careers by providing practical skills and experience. The career outcome rate for the Class of 2021 was 93%, with 19% of undergraduate students continuing their education in graduate or professional schools. The college's career services assist students with resume preparation, career testing, job interviews, and connecting with alumni. Graduates develop valuable skills such as adaptability, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are highly valued by employers.