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Elmhurst College is a private, four-year college located in Elmhurst, Illinois and affiliated with the United Church of Christ. Established in 1871, the College began on a plot of land which was donated to the German Evangelical Synod of North America by leading Chicago businessman, Thomas Bryan. Elmhurst Prosiminary (as the school was called originally) opened with only 14 students who were instructed in the subjects of music, mathematics, science, history, geography, religion, German and English (all of which are still taught today) in addition to Latin and Greek. For multiple decades, all courses at the College, including the subject of English, were taught in German. It was not until 1924 that the name Elmhurst College was formally assumed (though the name had been adopted casually) and the first baccalaureate degrees were offered.
Academic Programs
Elmhurst College’s mission is to inspire “students to form themselves intellectually and personally and to prepare for meaningful and ethical work in a multicultural, global society.” The College’s mission statement continues, “Working together with passion and commitment, we foster learning, broaden knowledge and enrich culture through pedagogical innovation, scholarship and creative expression.” Elmhurst College ranks among the best educational institutions in the region (according to both U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review) and endeavors to blend “liberal learning and professional preparation to prepare students to reach their full potential.”Elmhurst College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and has been so since 1924. More than 60 undergraduate majors are offered as well as a wide range of adult degree completion majors for adults, more than a dozen pre-professional programs, and several graduate degree programs. Elmhurst College also offers an Honors Program which offers additional opportunities for students who are “especially talented, curious and motivated”.
Student Life
Elmhurst College has a total enrollment figure of more than 3,000 including over 2,800 undergraduate students. Students come from many states and countries and represent nearly every religious, racial and ethnic background. Elmhurst College sits on a beautiful 48 acre campus which serves as a “peaceful arboretum” and is located a mere 35 minute train-ride away from the city of Chicago. Each of Elmhurst College’s classic red-brick buildings offer wireless internet access. On-campus student housing is offered through the College’s several residence halls which each feature a full kitchen, cozy gathering spots, internet access, and free cable television. Students may also choose from flexible meal plans which provide plenty of options.More than 100 activities take place on Elmhurst College’s campus – from intramurals to theatre to the Mock Trial Team – including a variety of student-led clubs and organizations. Elmhurst College fields 20 intercollegiate sports teams which compete at the NCCA Division III level. Nicknamed the Bluejays, Elmhurst College has won conference championships in at least five sports over the last several years.