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Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Bartlesville, OK

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1905
Founded
Private university
Type
663
Total Students
$31K
Tuition (In-State)
$31K
Tuition (Out-State)
$27K
Avg Net Price
77%
Acceptance Rate
28%
Graduation Rate
6-year
49%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Jim Dunn

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

About Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Experience transformative Christian higher education at Oklahoma Wesleyan University.

Oklahoma Wesleyan University (OKWU) offers a distinctive and transformative educational journey deeply rooted in Christian faith. Located in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, this private university is dedicated to providing an enriching higher education experience for students seeking to integrate their faith with rigorous academic pursuits. With a commitment to spiritual growth, intellectual development, and servant leadership, OKWU prepares graduates to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields and communities.

OKWU's rich history dates back to 1905, evolving through a series of foundational Christian schools and strategic mergers. What began as the Rocky Mountain Missionary and Evangelistic School eventually consolidated into Central Pilgrim College, which moved to its current picturesque Bartlesville campus in 1958. This campus uniquely incorporates the historic La Quinta Mansion, adding a touch of grandeur to its learning environment. The institution officially became Oklahoma Wesleyan University in 2001, marking a significant milestone in its journey.

Academically, OKWU has been a fully accredited, four-year degree-granting institution since 1972, continually expanding its offerings and campus facilities. Students benefit from modern learning spaces like the Campbell Science Building and the Chapel Fine Arts Center, alongside robust athletic opportunities, including its pioneering intercollegiate men's basketball team formed in 1971. OKWU fosters a vibrant student experience where faith is integrated into every aspect of campus life, encouraging a strong sense of community and purpose, and standing firm on its founding principles.

Key Highlights

  • A private Christian university located in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, serving 1204 students.
  • Traces its history back to 1905 through a series of founding Christian schools and strategic mergers.
  • Fully accredited as a four-year, degree-granting institution since 1972.
  • The campus is home to the historic La Quinta Mansion, formerly the residence of oilman H.V. Foster.
  • Established its first intercollegiate athletic team (men's basketball) in 1971.
  • Committed to providing higher education within a Christian environment for Wesleyan youth.

Timeline

1905
Rocky Mountain Missionary and Evangelistic School, an antecedent, is founded in Colorado Springs.
1958
Colorado Springs Bible College moves to Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and begins operating as Central Pilgrim College, purchasing the campus including La Quinta Mansion.
1968
Central Pilgrim College changes its name to Bartlesville Wesleyan College (BWC).
1971
BWC's first ever intercollegiate athletic team, the men's basketball team, is established.
1972
Miltonvale Wesleyan College merges with BWC; BWC becomes accredited as a four-year, degree-granting institution.
1979
The Mueller Sports Center is completed on campus.
2000
The Chapel Fine Arts Center is dedicated.
2001
Bartlesville Wesleyan College officially becomes Oklahoma Wesleyan University (OKWU).
2019
James A. Dunn becomes the current president of OKWU.
🏛️
121 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Jim Dunn
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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