Dallas Baptist University logo

Dallas Baptist University

Dallas, TX

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Soli Deo gloria Glory to God alone

1898
Founded
Private university
Type
2,526
Total Students
2,874
Undergrad
1,373
Graduate
$42M
Endowment
$38K
Tuition (In-State)
$38K
Tuition (Out-State)
$30K
Avg Net Price
91%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Graduation Rate
6-year
64%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification
President: Adam Wright

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

About Dallas Baptist University

Dallas Baptist University: A spirit of faith, growth, and distinctive architecture.

Dallas Baptist University, rooted in a rich history dating back to 1898, has evolved from its humble beginnings as Decatur Baptist College into a vibrant, faith-centered institution overlooking Mountain Creek Lake in Dallas. Originally founded in Decatur, Texas, the school made a pivotal move to Dallas in 1965 at the invitation of the Dallas Baptist Association, marking a significant chapter in its expansion. Renamed Dallas Baptist University in 1985, DBU stands today as a testament to persistent growth and a commitment to its founding motto, "Soli Deo gloria — Glory to God alone."

Academically, DBU is a comprehensive university offering a broad spectrum of educational opportunities designed to equip students for various callings. With 84 undergraduate majors, 24 master's degree programs, over 45 dual master's programs, and 2 doctoral programs, the university provides rigorous and relevant curricula across its diverse colleges. What began as a junior college quickly progressed to senior college status in 1968, conferring its first four-year bachelor's degrees just two years later, demonstrating a rapid ascent in its academic offerings and stature.

Beyond academics, Dallas Baptist University offers a distinctive student experience, characterized by its beautiful 368-acre campus and a strong residential community. Once known as a commuter college, DBU now hosts well over 2,000 students living on campus, fostering a lively and engaging environment. The campus architecture is particularly noteworthy, with many buildings constructed in the elegant Georgian style, often inspired by historic American landmarks like Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and Monticello, creating a unique and inspiring backdrop for learning and community life. Regional academic centers in Plano and Hurst-Colleyville further extend DBU's reach, serving a broader student population.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1898, establishing a legacy of over a century of education.
  • Transformed from a commuter college to a vibrant residential campus with over 2,000 students living on-site.
  • Expanded to a sprawling 368-acre campus overlooking Mountain Creek Lake in Dallas.
  • Offers a comprehensive academic portfolio including 84 undergraduate majors, 24 master's, 45+ dual master's, and 2 doctoral programs.
  • Known for its distinctive Georgian architecture, with buildings inspired by historic American landmarks such as Independence Hall and Monticello.
  • Enrolled 4,487 students in 2019, reflecting significant growth and academic reach.
  • Upholds its motto: "Soli Deo gloria — Glory to God alone."

Timeline

1898
Opened as Decatur Baptist College in Decatur, Texas.
1965
Moved to Dallas at the invitation of the Dallas Baptist Association; began offering classes to over 900 students.
1968
Achieved senior college status; offered first four-year bachelor's degrees in May 1970.
1985
Officially changed its name to Dallas Baptist University.
1992
Dedicated the John G. Mahler Student Center, the first new building in 20+ years and a replica of Independence Hall.
2001
DBU-North, the first regional academic center, opened in Carrollton, Texas (later moved to Plano).
2009
Dedicated the Patty and Bo Pilgrim Chapel.
2015
Opened Jim and Sally Nation Hall, a near replica of Monticello.
2018
Additional land acquisition increased the total campus size to 368 acres.
2019
Enrolled 4,487 students university-wide.
🏛️
128 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

6 notable schools within Dallas Baptist University

🎭

College of Arts and Sciences

🏫

Mary C. Crowley College of Christian Faith

📚

Dorothy M. Bush College of Education

💼

College of Business

🎓

Graduate School of Ministry

🏫

Gary Cook School of Leadership

Leadership

Adam Wright
President
Norma Hedin
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Dallas Baptist University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search