Overview of Friends University
Friends University, located in Wichita, Kansas, is a private Christian university affiliated with the Religious Society of Friends, also known as Quakers. Established in 1898, the university has a rich history rooted in Quaker principles and a commitment to providing students with a values-based education. Friends University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community service.
Quaker Identity: Friends University’s Quaker identity is central to its mission and values. The university is affiliated with the Religious Society of Friends, a Christian denomination known for its commitment to peace, social justice, and spiritual equality. Quaker principles such as simplicity, integrity, community, and equality inform the university’s approach to education, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to seek truth, engage in thoughtful reflection, and contribute to the well-being of the community.
Academic Excellence: The university offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, education, fine arts, and health sciences. The academic curriculum is designed to challenge students intellectually, providing them with a well-rounded education that prepares them for professional success and lifelong learning.
Small class sizes at Friends University contribute to a personalized and interactive learning experience. Faculty members are dedicated educators who prioritize teaching and mentorship, fostering a collaborative and supportive academic environment. The university’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its diverse range of programs, providing students with the flexibility to pursue their passions and career goals.
Quaker Values in Action: Friends University places a strong emphasis on putting Quaker values into action. The university encourages students to actively engage in community service, social justice initiatives, and efforts to promote peace. Through partnerships with local organizations and global outreach programs, students have the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to address real-world challenges and make a positive impact on society.
The commitment to service aligns with the university’s mission to develop individuals who are not only academically proficient but also compassionate and dedicated to making a difference in the world. Friends University strives to be a community where students are inspired to live out their faith through acts of service and kindness.
Faith and Spirituality: Friends University fosters an environment that supports spiritual growth and exploration. Chapel services, spiritual formation activities, and opportunities for worship and reflection contribute to the spiritual life of the campus community. The university aims to provide a space where students can deepen their faith, engage in meaningful conversations about spirituality, and explore their personal beliefs.
The integration of faith and learning is a fundamental aspect of the educational experience at Friends University. Faculty members incorporate Christian perspectives into their teaching, encouraging students to connect their academic pursuits with their spiritual journeys. The university’s commitment to holistic development includes a focus on nurturing the spiritual well-being of its students.
Community Engagement: Community engagement is a core value at Friends University. The university encourages students to actively participate in service-learning projects, internships, and experiential learning opportunities. Through these experiences, students gain practical skills, develop a sense of social responsibility, and contribute to the betterment of their communities.
The Center for Community-Based Learning at Friends University serves as a hub for community engagement initiatives. Students, faculty, and staff collaborate on projects that address local needs, promote justice, and enhance the quality of life for individuals and families. The commitment to community engagement extends beyond academic coursework, shaping a culture of service and civic responsibility.
Inclusive Community: Friends University is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming community. The university values diversity and strives to provide an environment where students from various backgrounds feel respected and supported. Initiatives, programs, and support services are in place to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the campus.
The commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the university’s efforts to foster a campus culture that values different perspectives and experiences. Students are encouraged to engage in conversations about social justice, cultural competence, and global awareness, contributing to a vibrant and supportive community.
Athletics and Campus Life: Athletics play a role in campus life at Friends University. The Falcons, the university’s athletic teams, compete in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics). The university offers a variety of athletic programs, providing students with opportunities for physical fitness, teamwork, and competitive sports.
Beyond athletics, Friends University offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, clubs, and cultural events. Students can participate in leadership development programs, artistic performances, and social activities that contribute to a well-rounded college experience.
Friends University stands as a distinctive institution with a strong Quaker identity and a commitment to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community service. With a focus on Quaker values, inclusivity, and holistic development, the university prepares students for lives of purpose, service, and leadership. The combination of a values-based education and a supportive community makes Friends University a unique and impactful institution in Christian higher education.
2100 W. University Street Wichita, KS 67213
Phone: (316) 295-5100
Email: learn@friends.edu
Web site: http://www.friends.edu
Rankings: Friends University
Located in Wichita, KS, Friends University is one of the best universities in the state of Kansas. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Friends University in the following areas: graduation rates, teaching resources, financing opportunities, and alumni donations. Latest acceptance rate is also given to show how competitive is Friends University.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.2 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 127 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 58.3% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 38.3% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 48 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): 1 | 73.5% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 2.0% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | N/A |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 32.0% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 86 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 19-25 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 11% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 37% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 74.7% |
| Financial resources rank: | 86 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 71 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | 9.5% |
Essential Facts: Friends University
- Master’s degree programs at Friends University are designed to give individuals with bachelor’s degrees a boost in their respective careers.
- Friends University does not discriminate against academically qualified students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, or without regard to disability.
- Phi Theta Kappa has recognized Friends University as one of 40 top colleges and universities nationally as members of the inaugural Excellence in Community College Transfer Honor Roll.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | N/A |
| Percent of undergraduates who are members of a fraternity: | N/A |
| Percent of student body who are members of a sorority: | N/A |
| Average percentage of students on campus during weekends: | 67% |
| Are all students permitted to have cars on campus? | Yes |
| Percent of students who have cars on campus: | 95% |
| Is alcohol permitted on campus for students of legal age? | No |
| Additional policies and regulations: | class attendance policies set by individual instructors, honor code, hazing prohibited, smoking prohibited, other |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NAIA |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor) |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, cross country, softball, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor), volleyball |
| Student activities: | choral groups, concert band, dance, drama/theater, jazz band, literary magazine, music ensembles, musical theater, pep band, student government, student newspaper, symphony orchestra, yearbook |