Wesleyan College
Acceptance rate
59.1%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$27,650
$39,310 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
496
Student-faculty ratio 8:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
40.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 45.6%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Wesleyan College, located in Macon, Georgia, is a distinguished liberal arts institution known for its commitment to empowering women through education. Founded in 1836, it holds the title of the first college in the world chartered to grant degrees to women, establishing a legacy that has paved the way for countless female leaders. The college's motto, "For the Glory of God and the Service of Humanity," reflects its dedication to fostering a sense of purpose and service among its students. This mission is deeply embedded in the campus culture, which emphasizes the importance of community engagement and social responsibility.
The campus itself is a vibrant environment that offers state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and a well-equipped library, which all contribute to a rich academic experience. Wesleyan College boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship from its highly qualified faculty members. With a diverse array of majors and minors, students can pursue their passions in various fields while also benefiting from interdisciplinary studies. The college also offers numerous extracurricular activities, ranging from athletics to arts, encouraging a well-rounded student life. Wesleyan's commitment to academic excellence and community service has not only resulted in strong graduate employment rates but has also produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Trends at Wesleyan College
Wesleyan College has demonstrated notable trends in tuition fees, student population, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition for in-state undergraduate students has increased significantly from approximately $19,775 in 2014 to $27,650 in 2023, which represents an increase of about 40%. This sharp rise in tuition costs is reflective of broader trends in higher education, where inflation and institutional costs have led to increased financial burdens on students and their families.
In parallel, the student body has experienced fluctuations. The number of undergraduate students decreased from 654 in 2013 to 614 in 2023, indicating a concerning trend of declining enrollment. This decline could suggest challenges in attracting new students, potentially influenced by rising tuition costs and competitive college markets. Furthermore, the gender distribution has remained heavily skewed towards female students, with women constituting approximately 94% of the undergraduate population in 2023. This significant gender imbalance highlights Wesleyan College's historical focus on women's education, but it also raises questions about diversity and inclusion efforts.
Graduation rates have shown variability, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 42-58% in recent years. Notably, the rate peaked at 58% in 2016 but has since seen a decrease, reflecting potential challenges in student retention and support. Retention rates also fell to 63% in 2023 from a high of 81% in 2013, suggesting that students may be struggling to persist through their college education.
These observations underscore the need for Wesleyan College to critically evaluate its strategies in student recruitment, financial accessibility, and academic support to ensure long-term sustainability and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Atlanta, about 70 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 70 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Meaghan Blight (President)
- Phone
- 4784771110
- Address
- 4760 Forsyth Road, Macon, GA 31210-4462
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Wesleyan College
The admission data from Wesleyan College reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in female acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rate for female applicants has shown notable fluctuations, with a peak of approximately 66.8% in 2023. This upward trend could indicate an intentional effort by the institution to enhance its appeal to female students, aligning with the broader movement towards gender equity in higher education.
Enrollment figures have also varied, with a notable decline in the number of students admitted in some years, such as 2018, where only 74 students were enrolled. This could reflect various external factors, including competition from other institutions or changes in demographic trends. The most recent data shows a recovery in enrollment numbers, indicating positive momentum that may attract more applicants in the future.
Interestingly, the data also highlights an increasing number of denies over the years, peaking at 525 in 2017. This raises questions about the selectivity of the college and its decision-making process regarding admissions. The high number of deferred admissions, particularly in recent years, suggests that the institution is cautious in its selection process, possibly aiming to maintain a quality student body.
Overall, as Wesleyan College continues to adapt to the changing landscape of higher education, the trends in its admission data reflect a commitment to inclusivity while navigating the challenges of maintaining enrollment and selectivity.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 19% submitted SAT, 7% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Wesleyan College
The data from Wesleyan College over the years reveals interesting trends in standardized test scores and submission rates for SAT and ACT. Notably, the percentage of admitted students submitting their SAT scores has fluctuated, with a high of 86% in 2012 and a low of 13% in both 2022 and 2023. This significant decrease in recent years may reflect broader trends in college admissions where many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, prompting students to forgo standardized testing altogether.
The scores themselves show a variation in both SAT and ACT performance. For instance, the SAT reading scores range from a 25th percentile of 420 to 560, while the 75th percentile scores have seen a peak at 660. This suggests that while there are fluctuations in applicant performance, there remains a competitive pool of students, especially in the earlier years of the data.
Furthermore, the decreasing number of students submitting scores is consistent with national trends, as more colleges move towards holistic admissions processes that evaluate students on a broader range of criteria beyond standardized tests. This shift could be beneficial in promoting diversity within the student body, as it allows for a wider array of talents, experiences, and backgrounds to be considered in the admission process.
Overall, the data indicates that Wesleyan College is navigating a changing landscape in college admissions, which may require adjustments in evaluation methods and criteria to maintain a strong academic community while adapting to student preferences and societal shifts regarding standardized testing.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
1,352 applicants in 2025, 59.1% admitted
799 admitted 553 not admitted Yield 13.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Elementary Education and Teaching · Master's14 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's10 (0% international)
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology · Master's5 (0% international)
- Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management · Master's4 (0% international)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Graduation Trends at Wesleyan College in 2023
The graduation data from Wesleyan College for 2023 reveals some interesting trends across various disciplines. Notably, the field of Registered Nursing produced the highest number of graduates with 24 bachelor's degrees awarded. This aligns with the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, especially in the post-pandemic context, where nursing roles have become critical.
In the realm of psychology, the data indicates a significant interest among international students, with three bachelor’s degrees awarded to this group, while the master's program in Industrial and Organizational Psychology attracted 11 graduates, showcasing the growing recognition of psychological principles in workplace settings. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards the importance of mental health and organizational behavior in professional environments.
The arts also showed a varied representation, particularly in Fine Arts and Music, with several graduates in general performance and studio arts. Such numbers highlight the value placed on creative disciplines, which are pivotal in fostering cultural development and expression.
Furthermore, while the business-related fields had fewer graduates this year, the presence of master's degrees awarded in general business administration is notable, indicating a nuanced focus on advanced studies in this competitive sector.
Overall, the data from Wesleyan College illustrates a diverse array of academic pursuits with a clear emphasis on healthcare and psychology, reflecting broader societal trends and the evolving job market. The presence of international students, particularly in prominent fields, underscores the college's global appeal and commitment to inclusivity in higher education.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $56,177 | ||
| Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. | $56,177 | ||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $56,177 | ||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||
| Industrial and Organizational Psychology. | - | ||
| Applied Psychology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,032 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Neurobiology and Neurosciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advertising. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
Students
531 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 6:94 · Freshman retention 76.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 282
- First-year undergraduates 105
- Graduate students 35
- Transfers and others 109
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (496)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Wesleyan College in 2023
Wesleyan College's student demographic data for 2023 reveals intriguing patterns regarding the composition of its student body. The data highlights a notable gender disparity, particularly among undergraduate freshmen, where there is a complete absence of male students—100% of this group consists of female students. This trend continues among undergraduate transfer students, who also show a similar gender imbalance.
In contrast, the undergraduate juniors display a slight male presence, with only 0.3% identifying as male, while the graduate student population has a male representation of approximately 4.3%. Such statistics may reflect broader societal trends in education, where women are increasingly pursuing higher education degrees at unprecedented rates.
The racial composition among these groups is also insightful. For instance, among undergraduate freshmen, a significant portion identifies as white, with 38 students, while a small subset represents other racial backgrounds. This highlights the ongoing challenges of diversity within higher education institutions.
Furthermore, the data indicates a substantial percentage of international students, which adds to the cultural richness of the college environment. However, the overall representation of racial and ethnic minorities remains a crucial area for growth and development.
As institutions like Wesleyan College continue to evolve, fostering a more inclusive and diverse environment will be essential not only for enriching the educational experience but also for preparing students to thrive in an increasingly globalized society.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Wesleyan College
The age composition of students at Wesleyan College reflects the institution's commitment to inclusivity and diversity in education. The data shows a significant presence of younger students, particularly those under 18, who comprise 37.5% of the total male student population and 22.8% of the total female student population. This trend is consistent with many colleges across the United States, where a large number of students enter higher education directly from high school.
In the 18-19 age bracket, there are notable figures, with 193 female students compared to just 9 male students, indicating a strong female presence in the early college years. This gender disparity continues in the 20-21 age range, where the female students (177) again outnumber their male counterparts (2). Such trends are reflective of broader patterns in higher education, where women have been enrolling at higher rates than men in recent years.
Interestingly, as the age increases, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 brackets, the number of male students begins to rise, albeit modestly. This suggests that older male students may be pursuing their degrees later in life, possibly due to work commitments or other personal circumstances. The presence of graduate male students in these age ranges also indicates a trend towards lifelong learning.
Overall, Wesleyan College's demographic data highlights the growing trend of women in higher education while demonstrating the importance of support systems for older and male students pursuing academic goals. This evolving landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for the institution as it continues to foster an environment conducive to learning for all.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
47 in 2025 · 23.8% in 2016
1 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Wesleyan College
The data on international student enrollment at Wesleyan College reveals significant trends over the years from 2004 to 2023. In the early years, the proportion of international undergraduate students was notably higher, peaking at approximately 23.79% in 2016. However, a gradual decline in both the overall undergraduate enrollment and the international student population is evident, with the percentage dropping to just 5.05% by 2023.
This decline can be attributed to several factors. The changing socio-political landscape, particularly in the United States, has made it more challenging for international students to pursue education in the country. Additionally, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted educational plans globally, leading to a decrease in international mobility for students.
Interestingly, while the undergraduate percentages plummeted, the representation of international students in graduate programs showed some resilience, rising to 10.87% in 2023. This disparity suggests that Wesleyan College may still be an attractive option for graduate studies, perhaps due to specific programs or faculty expertise that resonate with international applicants.
Overall, the data signifies a crucial moment for Wesleyan College to reassess its recruitment strategies and enhance support for international students, ensuring that the institution remains a diverse and inclusive environment conducive to global academic collaboration. As competition for international students intensifies among U.S. colleges, adapting to these trends will be essential for sustaining Wesleyan’s international student demographic.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$39,310
- Undergraduate tuition
- $27,650
- Room and board
- $11,660
- Graduate tuition
- $11,573
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 36% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$27.2M
Expenses$23.4M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Mercer UniversityMacon · 5.0 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Agnes Scott CollegeDecatur · 70.2 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Georgia State UniversityAtlanta · 71.9 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Spelman CollegeAtlanta · 72.3 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Emory UniversityAtlanta · 72.3 mi
U.S. News #23
-
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main CampusAtlanta · 73.3 mi
U.S. News #29
-
University of GeorgiaAthens · 77.2 mi
U.S. News #52
-
Auburn UniversityAuburn · 104.8 mi
U.S. News #100
-
Clemson UniversityClemson · 134.5 mi
U.S. News #80
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Wesleyan College:
-
Emory University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Emory is a prestigious research university located in Atlanta, Georgia, known for its strong programs in medicine, law, and business.
-
Agnes Scott College - This women's liberal arts college is ranked 63rd. Agnes Scott College emphasizes a challenging academic environment and a commitment to leadership development among women.
-
Spelman College - Ranked 39th, Spelman is one of the leading historically black colleges for women in the United States, known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and social justice.
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Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus - This public research university is ranked 33rd and is renowned for its engineering and technology programs.
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University of Georgia - Ranked 47th, UGA is a major public research university known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life.
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Clemson University - With a ranking of 86th, Clemson is recognized for its strong engineering and business programs, as well as its beautiful campus.
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Furman University - This liberal arts college is ranked 46th and offers a personalized education with a focus on student engagement and leadership.
These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Wesleyan College
The crime data from Wesleyan College reflects a concerning trend, particularly in the year 2022, where there was a significant spike in the average number of offenses per 1,000 students, reaching 21.53. This dramatic increase from previous years raises alarms and necessitates a closer investigation into the underlying causes.
Prior to this peak, the rate had been relatively stable, fluctuating between 1.28 and 6.78 from 2013 to 2021. The escalation in 2022 suggests the possibility of a specific incident or a series of events that may have contributed to this rise, which could include factors such as changes in campus policy, increased reporting of incidents, or perhaps a deterioration in campus safety.
Particularly noteworthy is the sharp contrast between the crime rates in 2017 and 2018, which were significantly lower at 0.30 and 1.66 respectively, compared to 2022's alarming figures. Understanding the context surrounding these numbers, including the types of crimes reported, will be crucial for the college administration to formulate effective strategies to enhance campus safety and prevent future incidents.
Furthermore, the data reveals a variety of offenses, including drug and alcohol-related arrests, domestic violence, and stalking. These issues are not isolated to Wesleyan College but resonate with broader societal challenges faced by educational institutions across the country. As such, continued vigilance and proactive measures will be essential to foster a safe and conducive learning environment for all students.
For those interested in how crime rates are calculated, further information can be found at this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Wesleyan College include Soong Ching-ling (Wife of Sun Yat-sen, honorary chair of the PRC), Soong May-ling (Wife of Chiang Kai-shek, youngest of the Soong sisters) and John Pemberton (Pharmacist and inventor of Coca-Cola).
-
Soong Ching-ling 1893–1981
Wife of Sun Yat-sen, honorary chair of the PRC
-
Soong May-ling 1898–2003
Wife of Chiang Kai-shek, youngest of the Soong sisters
-
John Pemberton 1831–1888
Pharmacist and inventor of Coca-Cola
-
Soong Ai-ling 1889–1973
Eldest Soong sister, wife of H. H. Kung
-
Lucille Soong 1935–
Chinese-American actress
-
Elaine Mokhtefi 1928–2026
American-Algerian activist, translator and writer
-
Sara Branham 1888–1962
Microbiologist and physician, meningitis researcher
-
Catherine Brewer Benson 1822–1908
One of the first American women with a college degree
-
Helen M. Walker 1891–1983
Statistician, first female president of the American Statistical Association
More alumni (11, by field)
Politics and law
-
Toni Jennings 1949–
16th lieutenant governor of Florida
-
Nancy Schaefer 1936–2010
Former conservative Georgia state senator
-
James Beverly 1968–
Georgia state representative
Business
-
Shivani Siroya
Founder and CEO of lending app Tala
Arts and media
-
Betty Maxwell 1994–
Miss America 2016
-
Kathryn Stripling Byer 1944–2017
Poet and North Carolina Poet Laureate
-
Bella Jarrett 1926–2007
Stage, television and film actress and novelist
-
Mary Ross Banks 1846–1910
Writer, author of Bright Days on the Old Plantation
-
Phaedra Parks 1973–
Attorney and reality television personality
-
Neva Jane Langley 1933–2012
Miss America 1953
Other fields
-
Laura Haygood 1845–1900
American educator and missionary in China
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.