About

The Critical Thinking College

Ahead of our time since 1849

Jewell has always stood for creative problem solving, individual expression and the need to challenge assumptions and engage with original ideas. Every day, people who possess the unique ability to analyze and adapt to change become more relevant, more valuable and more important, influencing everything from the global economy to their local community. We call these people critical thinkers. And the world needs them now more than ever.

“We educate our community to ask reflective questions, apply critical thought, and act with purpose.”
Jewell Mission

Our Campus

Perfectly situated between downtown Kansas City and Missouri's rural countryside, we take pride in the history, and the beauty, of our campus. Jewell Hall is on the National Register of Historic Places, and every building has a story to tell.

Athletics

Our Cardinals compete in 23 varsity sports and 21 sports at the NCAA Division II level in the Great Lakes Valley Conference.

Follow the Cardinals

6
U.S. News and World Report Best Midwest College 2022-2023

America's Best Colleges

Jewell is consistently ranked for value and academics by The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Washington Monthly, Money, U.S. News and World Report, The Princeton Review, Kiplinger's Personal Finance.

Jewell's Partnership with KC

Business leaders and alumni share ways William Jewell College is indispensable in cultivating critical thinkers and engaged citizens for the Kansas City region. Hear from corporate leaders.

Jewell and KC video

The Jewell Philosophy

Our Three Pillars

You may have seen Jewell Hall hundreds of times, but you'll never look at it the same way again. Its iconic three pillars have been the face of our school since the building was completed in1858, and now they've inspired the three pillars that support our philosophy:

Critical Thinking
Community
Meaningful Lives