Dakota Wesleyan University

Mitchell, SD

private nonprofitgraduate

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Quick Facts

“Sacrifice or Service”

1885

Founded

Private university

Type

661

Total Students

$33K

Tuition (In-State)

$33K

Tuition (Out-State)

$19K

Avg Net Price

73%

Acceptance Rate

46%

Graduation Rate

6-year

69%

Retention Rate

Baccalaureate Colleges

Classification

President: Daniel R. Kittle

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Dakota Wesleyan University

From pioneer spirit to prairie innovation, Dakota Wesleyan empowers future leaders.

Dakota Wesleyan University stands as a testament to enduring spirit and a commitment to service, rooted in the Dakota Territory since 1885. Founded by Methodist pioneers driven by deep religious convictions, the university’s enduring motto, "Sacrifice or Service," encapsulates its mission to uplift and educate. From its humble beginnings as Dakota University, it rapidly grew to become the largest independent college in South Dakota by 1920, a testament to its foundational vision.

The university’s history is marked by remarkable resilience and regional responsiveness. During the harsh Great Depression, Dakota Wesleyan exemplified true service by accepting farm produce for tuition and ensuring its personnel took pay cuts to keep education accessible. This profound dedication to its community continues today, shaping its academic strengths to meet critical regional needs.

Today, Dakota Wesleyan is renowned for robust programs in teacher education, nursing, and allied health, addressing the ongoing demand for skilled professionals in rural South Dakota. It also champions inclusivity with special programs focusing on Native American culture and offers support to students needing additional preparation for their academic journey. Students at Dakota Wesleyan become part of a legacy dedicated to Christian thought, community engagement, and practical impact, ready to serve their communities and beyond.

Key Highlights

✦Founded in 1885 by Methodist settlers in Dakota Territory.
✦Motto: "Sacrifice or Service," symbolizing a deep commitment to community and education.
✦Once the largest independent college in South Dakota, with over 300 students by 1920.
✦Strong academic programs in teacher education, nursing, and allied health, addressing rural South Dakota needs.
✦Offers special programs focused on Native American culture and student preparedness.
✦Parts of its campus, including the central U-shaped quadrangle, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
✦Current student enrollment of 733.

Timeline

1883

Charter secured to found the college as Dakota University.

1885

Founded as Dakota University.

1904

Institution assumed its present name of Dakota Wesleyan University.

1920

Largest independent college in the state, with an enrollment of more than 300.

1930

Implemented policies to support students during the Great Depression (e.g., accepting farm produce for tuition).

1976

About half of the campus listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

🏛️

141 Years

of Excellence

Leadership

Daniel R. Kittle

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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