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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

Discover DBU: Where faith, academics, and a stunning Georgian campus unite.

Dallas Baptist University (DBU) offers a unique educational experience where academic rigor is deeply rooted in Christian faith, guided by its motto, "Soli Deo gloria – Glory to God alone." Founded in 1898 as Decatur Baptist College, DBU embarked on a transformative journey, eventually relocating to its picturesque Dallas campus in 1965. Overlooking Mountain Creek Lake, the university’s stunning 368-acre University Hill campus is renowned for its distinctive Georgian architecture, with buildings inspired by iconic American landmarks like Independence Hall and Monticello, creating an inspiring and cohesive environment for learning and growth.

From its origins as a junior college, DBU steadily expanded, achieving senior college status in 1968 and offering its first bachelor's degrees by 1970. The institution officially became Dallas Baptist University in 1985, structuring its comprehensive offerings into colleges such as the Mary C. Crowley College of Christian Faith, the Dorothy M. Bush College of Education, and the College of Business. This evolution highlights DBU's commitment to diverse academic pursuits, blending traditional liberal arts with specialized professional training.

Academically, DBU is a vibrant institution, offering 84 undergraduate majors, 24 master's degree programs, over 45 dual master's programs, and 2 doctoral programs. This breadth ensures that students can pursue their passions across a wide array of fields, supported by a faculty dedicated to holistic development. What began with an initial class of over 900 students has grown to a thriving community of 4,487 students in 2019, with over 2,000 choosing to live on campus.

The student experience at DBU is enriched by its residential campus life and state-of-the-art facilities like the John G. Mahler Student Center and the Patty and Bo Pilgrim Chapel. These spaces, alongside newer additions like Joan and Andy Horner Hall and Jim and Sally Nation Hall, provide modern amenities for student activities, worship, and academic pursuits. DBU cultivates an engaging environment where students can not only excel academically but also grow spiritually and personally within a supportive and beautiful collegiate setting.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1898, evolving from Decatur Baptist College to Dallas Baptist University.
  • Located on a scenic 368-acre campus in Dallas, featuring distinctive Georgian architecture.
  • Offers a comprehensive array of academic programs: 84 undergraduate majors, 24 master's, 45 dual master's, and 2 doctoral programs.
  • Guided by the inspiring motto "Soli Deo gloria" (Glory to God alone).
  • A thriving student body of 4,487 enrolled in 2019, with over 2,000 students living on campus.
  • Features modern facilities including the John G. Mahler Student Center and Patty and Bo Pilgrim Chapel.

Timeline

1897
Baptist General Convention of Texas purchased land for a new college.
1898
Opened as Decatur Baptist College in Decatur, Texas.
1965
Moved to Dallas, renamed Dallas Baptist College, and began classes with over 900 students.
1968
Achieved senior college status.
1970
Offered its first four-year bachelor's degrees.
1985
Officially changed its name to Dallas Baptist University.
1992
Dedicated the John G. Mahler Student Center, setting the Georgian architectural style.
2001
DBU-North, the first regional academic center, opened.
2009
Dedicated the Patty and Bo Pilgrim Chapel.
2018
Campus expanded to 368 acres through an additional land acquisition.
🏛️
128 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

7 notable schools within Dallas Baptist University

🎭

College of Arts and Sciences

Provides a strong foundation in liberal arts, sciences, and humanities.

🏫

Mary C. Crowley College of Christian Faith

Focuses on theological studies, ministry, and spiritual development.

📚

Dorothy M. Bush College of Education

Dedicated to preparing educators and leaders in various educational fields.

💼

College of Business

Offers programs across diverse business disciplines.

🎓

Graduate School of Ministry

Provides advanced studies for ministry professionals and theological scholars.

🏫

Gary Cook School of Leadership

Dedicated to developing effective leadership skills and principles.

🎭

College of Fine Arts

Encompasses programs in music, art, communication, and performing arts.

Leadership

Adam Wright
President
Norma Hedin
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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