Kansas Wesleyan University
The Vibe Check
Kansas Wesleyan University offers a tight-knit, family-like atmosphere where students are known by name, not just a student ID. The campus feels like a supportive community where faculty and staff are deeply invested in your personal and spiritual growth. It's a place where you can easily get involved, find your tribe, and feel a strong sense of belonging.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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โ ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
KWU emphasizes experiential learning, with standout programs in business, health professions, and parks and recreation management that leverage strong community partnerships. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors who are focused on teaching and mentorship rather than just research. Students have opportunities for hands-on projects, internships, and leadership roles that directly apply to their career goals.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Salina
Life in Salina is relaxed, with students enjoying the city's parks, local coffee shops, and a growing downtown area with murals and community events. Outdoor activities are a big draw, with easy access to hiking, biking, and water sports at nearby Wilson Lake. For entertainment, students often gather for KWU's own athletic events, concerts, and the occasional trip to larger cities like Wichita for a day trip.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($51,152):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The Salina campus is generally considered a safe, close-knit environment with campus security present and involved. Salina itself is a quiet, low-crime city, offering a secure setting away from the hustle of larger metropolitan areas.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- โ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for many students.
- โ Small class sizes foster strong relationships with professors and peers.
- โ Strong, hands-on programs in Business, Health, and Parks & Recreation.
- โ A faith-based, supportive community that emphasizes personal growth.
Cons
- โ The 35.6% graduation rate is significantly below the national average.
- โ The 59.8% retention rate suggests a notable number of students do not return for their sophomore year.
- โ Salina's remote location offers limited off-campus entertainment and career networking compared to larger cities.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Kansas Wesleyan University is known for its strong, hands-on programs in Business & Marketing, Parks, Recreation & Fitness, and Health Professions. As a private, faith-based (United Methodist) institution, it is also recognized for its tight-knit, supportive community and emphasis on developing students' leadership skills and character through a 'Life of Purpose' framework.
No, Kansas Wesleyan University is not hard to get into, with an acceptance rate of approximately 85%. This makes it an accessible option for a wide range of applicants. However, a complete application with a strong personal essay and demonstrated interest can improve your chances of admission and merit-based financial aid.
Campus life at KWU is highly communal and centered around a small, residential campus of under 900 students. Students are deeply involved in campus activities, including a robust NCAA Division II athletics program, intramurals, and student-led clubs. The vibe is supportive and personal, with many students participating in spiritual life activities and community service.
The value of a KWU degree depends heavily on the student's major and career path. The average net price of $23,369 is more manageable than the sticker tuition, and for high-demand fields like business or healthcare, the 10-year median earnings of $51,152 can offer a reasonable return on investment. However, prospective students should be mindful of the school's lower graduation and retention rates, which can impact the overall value if not completed.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 856
- In-State Tuition $33,470
- Zip Code 67401
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $23,369, KWU can be more affordable than its sticker price, especially with institutional aid and scholarships. The 10-year median earnings of $51,152 are solid for a private school graduate, but the investment requires careful consideration against the graduation rate. For students who thrive in its supportive environment and leverage the strong alumni network, the degree can provide a good return, particularly in fields like business and health.
๐ Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.