Overview of Dakota Wesleyan University
Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU) is a private liberal arts university located in Mitchell, South Dakota. Established in 1885 by Methodist pioneers, DWU has a rich history of providing a comprehensive and values-based education. The university is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, and its commitment to the integration of faith, learning, and service is a hallmark of the DWU experience.
Academic Programs: Dakota Wesleyan University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including the arts, humanities, sciences, education, and business. The university’s academic curriculum is grounded in the liberal arts tradition, emphasizing critical thinking, effective communication, and a well-rounded education. DWU is dedicated to preparing students for lifelong learning, ethical leadership, and responsible citizenship.
Service-Learning and Experiential Education: DWU places a strong emphasis on service-learning and experiential education. The McGovern Center for Leadership and Public Service at DWU provides students with opportunities to engage in community service, internships, and leadership development. Through these experiences, students apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering personal growth and a sense of social responsibility.
Health Sciences Programs: Dakota Wesleyan University has a notable focus on health sciences education. The university offers programs in nursing, athletic training, and radiologic technology, among others. The health sciences programs at DWU are designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare, combining classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences to ensure graduates are well-equipped for their professions.
Small Class Sizes and Faculty Mentorship: One of the strengths of DWU is its commitment to small class sizes and faculty mentorship. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students benefit from individualized attention and close interaction with professors. Faculty members at DWU are not only experts in their fields but also dedicated mentors who guide students academically and personally.
Faith Integration: As an institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Dakota Wesleyan University integrates faith into the educational experience. The university seeks to nurture the spiritual and moral development of students, fostering an environment where faith and learning are interconnected. Chapel services, spiritual retreats, and discussions on ethical and moral issues contribute to the faith-based atmosphere at DWU.
Community Engagement: Dakota Wesleyan University is deeply committed to community engagement and service. Through partnerships with local organizations and initiatives such as the McGovern Center, DWU students actively contribute to the well-being of the community. The university’s commitment to service aligns with its mission to graduate individuals who make a positive impact in their communities.
Athletics and Campus Life: DWU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong emphasis on athletics. The university is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and competes in various sports. The athletic programs contribute to a sense of community and school spirit on campus. Beyond athletics, students have access to a range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and cultural events that enhance their college experience.
Global Education Opportunities: Dakota Wesleyan University encourages students to broaden their perspectives through global education opportunities. Study abroad programs, international internships, and cultural exchanges allow students to experience different cultures, gain global competence, and develop a deeper understanding of the interconnected world.
Facilities and Campus: DWU’s campus is equipped with modern facilities to support academic, recreational, and residential needs. The Rollins Campus Center, McGovern Library, and the Christen Family Athletic Center are key components of the campus infrastructure. The university’s commitment to providing a comfortable and conducive learning environment is reflected in its facilities.
Alumni Success: Dakota Wesleyan University has a proud tradition of producing successful alumni who contribute to their professions and communities. Graduates of DWU have excelled in various fields, including education, healthcare, business, and more. The university’s alumni network serves as a valuable resource for current students, providing mentorship and networking opportunities.
Dakota Wesleyan University stands as a distinctive institution with a commitment to providing a values-based liberal arts education. The integration of faith, learning, and service, coupled with a focus on small class sizes, community engagement, and experiential education, creates a unique and supportive learning environment. DWU’s dedication to preparing well-rounded individuals for meaningful careers and responsible citizenship contributes to its standing as a respected liberal arts university in the Midwest.
1200 W. University Avenue Mitchell, SD 57301
Phone: (800) 333-8506
Email: admissions@dwu.edu
Web site: http://www.dwu.edu
Rankings: Dakota Wesleyan University
Located in Mitchell, SD, Dakota Wesleyan University is one of the best universities in the state of Illinois. On this page, you will find in-depth rankings for Dakota Wesleyan 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 Dakota Wesleyan University.
| Rankings, Ratings, and Admissions Statistics | |
| Peer college rating (out of 5) | 2.6 |
| Graduation and retention ranking: | 62 |
| Average freshman retention rate: | 59.5% |
| 6-year graduation rate: | 43.0% |
| Predicted graduation rate: | N/A |
| Overperformance(+)/Underperformance(-): | N/A |
| Faculty resources ranking: | 65 |
| Classes with under 20 students (2020): | 72.0% |
| Classes with 50 or more students (2020): | 1.0% |
| Student faculty ratio (2020): | 13:1 |
| Percent of faculty who are full-time (2020) | 79.1% |
| Student selectivity ranking: | 45 |
| SAT/ACT 25th-75th percentile (2020) | 18-25 |
| 2020 Freshmen in top 10 percent of high school class: | 27% |
| Freshmen in top 25 percent of high school class (2020): | 43% |
| Fall 2020 Acceptance rate: | 74.8% |
| Financial resources rank: | 35 |
| Alumni giving rank: | 67 |
| Average alumni giving rate (2020): | N/A |
Essential Facts: Dakota Wesleyan University
- In 1883, a small band of Methodist settlers meeting in the Dakota Territory secured a charter to found the college as Dakota University.
- DWU is a private four year higher education institute that traces its history to the year 1885.
- Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU) is a four-year university in Mitchell, South Dakota. The campus of the university is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Rules and regulations Sports Activities
| General Information | |
| Percent of undergraduate students who live in college-owned, operated, or affiliated housing: | 44% |
| 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: | 30% |
| 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, hazing prohibited, smoking prohibited |
| Collegiate athletic association: | NAIA |
| Men’s scholarship sports: | baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor), wrestling |
| Women’s scholarship sports: | basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, track and field (indoor), track and field (outdoor), volleyball |
| Student activities: | choral groups, concert band, dance, drama/theater, literary magazine, music ensembles, student government, student newspaper |