Principia College

Elsah, IL

private nonprofitbachelors

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Quick Facts

337

Total Students

$33K

Tuition (In-State)

$33K

Tuition (Out-State)

44%

Acceptance Rate

76%

Graduation Rate

6-year

75%

Retention Rate

Baccalaureate Colleges

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Principia College

Experience liberal arts education on a stunning, historic campus overlooking the Mississippi.

Principia College offers a distinctive liberal arts education set against the breathtaking backdrop of Elsah, Illinois. Perched on bluffs overlooking the majestic Mississippi River, the college boasts a truly unique campus, a significant portion of which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark District. This architectural marvel was largely designed by the renowned Bernard Maybeck, making the campus itself a testament to design and history.

Founded in 1912 by Mary Kimball Morgan, Principia College emerged with a purpose rooted in Christian Science. While its origins are deeply connected to the teachings of Christian Science, the college has evolved significantly. Today, Principia embraces a diverse student body, welcoming individuals from 26 countries and a variety of faith backgrounds, no longer requiring Christian Science affiliation for students or their families.

Prospective students will discover an intimate academic environment where a rich heritage meets modern inclusivity. The college’s rural, sprawling 2,500-acre campus provides ample space for learning, exploration, and community building, fostering a supportive atmosphere for intellectual growth and personal development. This blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and a commitment to a global community makes Principia a truly singular place to pursue a college degree.

Key Highlights

✦Stunning National Historic Landmark Campus: A significant portion of its 2,500-acre campus is a National Historic Landmark District, featuring renowned architecture by Bernard Maybeck.
✦Diverse Global Community: Home to students representing 26 countries and a variety of faith backgrounds.
✦Strong Financial Foundation: Boasts a substantial endowment of $696.2 million (as of 2020).
✦Intimate Learning Environment: Supports a close-knit community with a student body of 348 (Fall 2023).
✦Historical Evolution: Originally founded with ties to Christian Science, it now welcomes all students regardless of religious affiliation since 2024.
✦Picturesque Location: Situated on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River in rural Elsah, Illinois.

Timeline

1898

The Principia institution, from which the college emerged, was founded by Mary Kimball Morgan.

1912

Principia College was officially established.

1923

The college received accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.

1931

Ground was broken for the new college campus in Elsah, designed by architect Bernard Maybeck.

1934

Principia College graduated its first class as a full four-year institution.

1935

The college officially moved to its present-day Elsah campus.

1993

Approximately 300 acres of the campus were designated a National Historic Landmark.

2024

The school began accepting students with no affiliation with Christian Science.

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