Quincy University

QU offers 50+ undergraduate programs with a curriculum that merges liberal arts foundations with hands-on learning. The most popular majors reflect career-oriented pragmatism:

• Nursing (23% of graduates)
• Biology (21%)
• Management Information Systems (20%)
• Marketing (16%)

The university emphasizes mentorship and experiential learning, with graduate and doctoral programs available. Small class sizes and a Franciscan intellectual tradition shape an academic culture that values ethical leadership alongside technical skills.

Life at QU revolves around its Catholic and Franciscan identity, expressed through weekly liturgies, ministry groups, and service opportunities. With 69% of students living on campus, the residential experience is central, offering themed housing and communal spaces. Student activities include:

• DII athletics (Great Lakes Valley Conference)
• Two sororities (Greek life is present but low-key)
• Clubs ranging from esports to sustainability

The Instagram feed (@quincy_u) showcases hawk mascot pride, riverfront sunsets, and tight-knit dorm traditions.

QU reports a 46.7% six-year graduation rate, with alumni earning median salaries of $36,427 one year post-graduation and $50,369 after a decade. Nursing graduates fare particularly well, with strong local healthcare network connections. About 45% of students graduate with debt, averaging $24,000—below the national average. The university tracks post-grad outcomes closely, with recent data showing a mix of immediate employment and graduate school enrollment.

After scholarships and grants, the average net price drops to $17,424, with 71.81% of students receiving aid (average package: $28,461). QU provides a net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator to estimate individualized costs, factoring in tuition, fees, and room/board. The university emphasizes affordability through:

• Merit scholarships (automatically considered at admission)
• Need-based grants
• Work-study programs

In-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rate.

Quincy University carves a distinct niche as a Franciscan institution with vocational punch—its nursing program rivals larger universities, while its 10:1 student-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention. The riverfront campus fosters community without isolation (Chicago is a 4-hour drive), and its DII athletics (12 teams) rally school spirit. Unlike many faith-based schools, QU balances tradition with pragmatism: Mass is optional, but the emphasis on ethical professionalism permeates classrooms. For students seeking a close-knit, values-aware education with strong Midwestern job pipelines, it’s a compelling option.