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Iowa Wesleyan University closed in 5/2023 (U.S. Department of Education IPEDS). The data on this page is historical and kept for reference.

Private nonprofit, 4-year

Iowa Wesleyan University

Mount Pleasant, Iowa

Acceptance rate

80.8%

2023

Peer median 69.4%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Iowa Wesleyan University, located in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, is a private liberal arts institution that has a rich history dating back to 1842. As one of the oldest universities in the state, it offers a unique blend of academic excellence and a nurturing environment. The university emphasizes a student-centered approach, fostering critical thinking, ethical leadership, and community service. Iowa Wesleyan's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Education for a Lifetime," which reflects its commitment to preparing students not only for successful careers but also for meaningful lives.

The campus features modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories, a comprehensive library, and comfortable living accommodations that enhance the student experience. The university is known for its strong emphasis on athletics and offers a variety of sports programs that encourage teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness. In addition, Iowa Wesleyan has a vibrant campus culture, with numerous clubs and organizations that cater to diverse interests, promoting a sense of community and belonging among students. With dedicated faculty and a supportive environment, Iowa Wesleyan University continues to produce graduates who excel in their chosen fields and contribute positively to society.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Iowa Wesleyan University

Iowa Wesleyan University has witnessed significant changes in several key metrics over the past decade, particularly in tuition fees, student enrollment, graduation rates, and student retention rates.

Firstly, the tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have increased dramatically, rising from $25,530 in 2014 to $34,700 in 2023. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 36% over nine years. Such a rise in tuition can be a crucial factor affecting enrollment numbers, as potential students and their families may weigh the cost of education against potential future earnings.

In terms of student enrollment, the university has seen a notable improvement. The number of undergraduate students increased from 455 in 2016 to 785 in 2023. This growth of nearly 73% indicates a positive trend in attracting and retaining students, potentially influenced by the university's efforts to enhance its academic offerings and campus experience.

Graduation rates have shown a promising upward trend as well. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from around 15.6% in 2014 to approximately 30.8% in 2023. This improvement may reflect enhanced academic support services, which have likely contributed to better student outcomes.

Lastly, the retention rate for undergraduate students has fluctuated but has shown some stability, hovering around 54.5% in 2023. This suggests that while the university is successful in attracting students, maintaining their enrollment remains a challenge.

In conclusion, Iowa Wesleyan University is experiencing a positive trajectory in student enrollment and graduation rates amidst rising tuition costs. Continuous efforts to improve student retention could further enhance its reputation and viability as a leading educational institution.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Des Moines, about 110 mi
Nearest international airport
Des Moines International Airport (DSM), about 120 mi
Mount Pleasant, Iowa
City
Mount Pleasant, Iowa
Address
601 N Main Street, Mount Pleasant, IA 52641

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2023

Men
77.4%
Women
84.2%

In 2020: men 58.8%, women 58.0%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Iowa Wesleyan University

The admission data from Iowa Wesleyan University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates, as well as the overall enrollment numbers. Starting from 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 64.05%, while the female acceptance rate was slightly higher at 71.43%. Over the years, we see a general downward trend in acceptance rates, especially notable in 2016, where the male acceptance rate dropped to around 45.24% and the female rate to 52.46%. This trend may indicate a more competitive admission process, possibly in response to a surge in applications or a strategic shift in the university's enrollment goals.
Interestingly, there was a peak in enrollment numbers in 2021, reaching 208 students, but this was accompanied by a significant number of denied applications, indicating that while the university may have aimed for a larger cohort, it was also selective. The data shows a notable increase in the number of denied applicants, particularly in the years 2015 to 2018, which could reflect the university's efforts to enhance its academic profile.
The figures also suggest a growing trend of deferred admissions, especially in 2016 and 2017, which may point to an increase in students considering their options before committing. Overall, Iowa Wesleyan University's admission dynamics reflect broader trends in higher education, where institutions balance selectivity with enrollment goals amid changing demographics and economic conditions. As the university continues to adapt, monitoring these trends will be essential for understanding its future positioning and reputation in the academic landscape.

Test Scores

2023 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 9% submitted SAT, 18% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total830–1010Peer median 1220
ACT composite16–22
SAT Reading
420–490
600700800
SAT Math
410–520
600700800
ACT composite
16–22
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Iowa Wesleyan University

The data from Iowa Wesleyan University over the years presents a vivid picture of the trends in standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores. Notably, the number of students submitting SAT scores and ACT scores has fluctuated, with a significant increase observed in 2019 and 2020, where 35% and 46% of admitted students submitted SAT scores, respectively. This spike may correlate with broader trends in college admissions, as institutions adjust their policies regarding test-optional applications.

The range of SAT reading and mathematics scores shows a consistent pattern, with the 25th percentile starting score generally hovering around the low 400s and the 75th percentile ending score reaching the mid-500s in recent years. This indicates that while a portion of students achieve higher scores, a significant number still fall within a lower range, reflecting the diversity of the student body. The ACT scores present a similar trend, with a wide range indicating varied academic backgrounds among admitted students.

Interestingly, the percentage of students submitting scores has generally decreased in the later years, suggesting a potential shift in student preferences or perceptions regarding standardized testing. As the landscape of higher education evolves, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, universities like Iowa Wesleyan may continue to see shifts in how students approach test submissions.

In conclusion, while the average scores and submission percentages reveal fluctuations, they also highlight the ongoing discussions surrounding standardized testing in college admissions, emphasizing the need for holistic review processes that accommodate diverse student profiles.

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable nearby schools to Iowa Wesleyan University:

  1. University of Iowa - Ranked 93rd in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Iowa is a comprehensive university known for its strong programs in various fields, including the arts and sciences.

  2. Grinnell College - This liberal arts college is highly regarded, ranked 11th in the nation. Grinnell College offers a rigorous academic environment and emphasizes critical thinking and social responsibility.

  3. Knox College - With a rank of 75, Knox College is a distinguished liberal arts college that focuses on a personalized education and offers a variety of majors and extracurricular opportunities.

  4. Bradley University - Ranked 185th, Bradley University is a comprehensive institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing a strong connection between education and career preparation.

  5. Drake University - With a ranking of 178, Drake University is a comprehensive university that combines liberal arts education with professional programs, known for its strong emphasis on community service and engagement.

These schools provide diverse educational opportunities and are known for their commitment to academic excellence.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2018–2020

Liquor referrals
63
Drug arrests
23
Burglary
15
Fondling
5
Aggravated assault
5
Liquor arrests
4

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Iowa Wesleyan University

The crime rates at Iowa Wesleyan University over the years show a fluctuating trend, with significant variations in the number of reported incidents. In 2013, the crime rate per 1,000 students was notably high at 22.12, reflecting a concerning level of criminal activity on campus. As the years progressed, there was a significant drop in criminal incidents, especially in 2014, where the rate fell to 7.35. This decline might suggest effective measures were implemented to enhance campus safety or a natural reduction in criminal behavior.

However, from 2018 onwards, there was a resurgence in crime rates, peaking in 2020 with an alarming rate of 40.19 per 1,000 students, indicating a troubling increase in incidents such as drug-related arrests and alcohol offenses. The spike in crime during this period could correlate with broader societal issues, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which have been known to exacerbate stress and lead to increased criminal behavior in various communities.

Interestingly, in 2023, the reported crime rate dropped to 0.00, which raises questions about the data's accuracy or reporting practices. It could indicate a significant improvement in campus safety or possible underreporting.

Overall, the data points to the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure the safety of students. The fluctuating crime rates emphasize the need for ongoing efforts in crime prevention and awareness programs on campus. For more information on how to calculate crime rates, please refer to this link: 'https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447'.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Iowa Wesleyan University include James A. Van Allen (Space physicist who discovered the Van Allen radiation belts), Peggy Whitson (Astronaut and biochemist, former NASA chief astronaut) and William A. Clark (Mining magnate, Montana Copper King and politician).

More alumni (11, by field)

Politics and law

Science and academia

Arts and media

  • Jessie Wilson Manning 1855–1947

    Author and lecturer from Iowa

Sports

  • Janet Thompson 1933–2014

    Women's basketball player, 1953 world championship gold medalist

  • Adaugo Nwachukwu 2003–

    Amateur wrestler

    Attended until 2023

    Also attended: McKendree University, William Penn University

  • Sandy Sandberg 1910–1989

    Professional NFL football tackle

Other fields

  • Ida Hinman 1854–1926

    Feminist, journalist, suffragist and temperance activist

    Also attended: George Washington University

  • Julia Baldwin McKibbin 1855–1939

    American educator, author, and philanthropist

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.