Roberts Wesleyan College
Acceptance rate
70.6%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$38,826
$51,802 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,393
Student-faculty ratio 7:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
60.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 68.1%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Roberts Wesleyan University, located in Rochester, New York, is a private Christian liberal arts university that emphasizes a holistic approach to education. Founded in 1866, the university is grounded in the Wesleyan tradition, which promotes academic excellence, character development, and service to others. The campus boasts a vibrant community with a commitment to nurturing both the intellectual and spiritual growth of its students. The university's mission is encapsulated in its motto, "Education for the Whole Person," reflecting its dedication to developing not only knowledgeable graduates but also responsible and compassionate citizens.
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable strengths in fields such as nursing, education, business, and the arts. Roberts Wesleyan is particularly known for its strong nursing program, which prepares students for successful careers in healthcare. The university also fosters a rich campus culture, with numerous student organizations and athletic teams that promote teamwork and school spirit. The facilities are modern and well-equipped, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces. Additionally, Roberts Wesleyan's commitment to community engagement and service is evident through various outreach programs, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world contexts while making a positive impact in the community. Overall, Roberts Wesleyan University stands out as an institution that values academic rigor and personal growth within a supportive and faith-based environment.
Key Insights on Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Retention
Roberts Wesleyan University, a private institution, has witnessed a significant upward trend in tuition fees over the years. The cost of in-state undergraduate tuition rose from approximately $27,364 in 2014 to $36,124 in 2023, marking an increase of over 32%. This trend reflects the broader national issue of rising college costs, which poses challenges for students and families trying to afford higher education.
In terms of student outcomes, the graduation rates present a mixed picture. The on-time graduation rate has fluctuated, with a notable low of approximately 7.9% in 2015, before recovering to around 53.5% in 2023. This suggests that while there are improvements, the university still faces challenges in retaining students and ensuring their timely completion of degrees.
Additionally, retention rates have shown some variability, peaking at about 85.7% in 2014 but dropping to around 74.0% in 2023. This decline indicates potential issues with student satisfaction and support that may need to be addressed to maintain enrollment and academic success.
Furthermore, the gender ratio among undergraduate students has remained relatively stable, with female students consistently making up a larger percentage of the undergraduate population. In 2023, approximately 67.7% of undergraduates were women, highlighting ongoing trends in gender enrollment in higher education.
Overall, while Roberts Wesleyan University is increasing its tuition and has made strides in graduation rates, the retention rates and the challenges associated with keeping students engaged remain critical areas for improvement. These factors will be crucial for the university's future success and its ability to attract and retain quality students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Rochester, about 10 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC), about 6 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Free Methodist
- President
- Dr. Rupert A. Hayles, jr. (President)
- Phone
- 5855946000
- Address
- 2301 Westside Dr, Rochester, NY 14624
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 66.1%, women 66.8%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at Roberts Wesleyan University
The admission statistics for Roberts Wesleyan University reveal notable trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. From 2009 to 2023, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants fluctuate significantly, indicating varying levels of competitiveness in the admissions process. For instance, in 2012, the acceptance rate for males dipped to approximately 50%, while the female acceptance rate was slightly higher at around 52%. This suggests a period of heightened selectivity.
Interestingly, the years following 2014 saw a rise in male acceptance rates, peaking at nearly 99% in 2023. On the female side, the acceptance rate also reached a remarkable 99.5% in the same year. This dramatic increase in acceptance rates might be attributed to a shift in the university's strategic goals aimed at increasing enrollment figures, particularly during a time when many institutions faced declining applications due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the number of students enrolled shows fluctuations, with a notable spike in enrollment numbers in recent years, paralleling the increased acceptance rates. The institution's ability to balance the number of students accepted with those who defer or deny acceptance also reflects its adaptability to changing circumstances in higher education.
Overall, these trends may suggest that Roberts Wesleyan University is positioning itself to attract a larger and more diverse student body while maintaining a commitment to academic standards. The data highlights a significant transformation in the university's admissions landscape, which could have lasting implications for its future.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 9% submitted SAT, 2% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Roberts Wesleyan University
The admissions data from Roberts Wesleyan University over the years reveals intriguing trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores remained relatively high, peaking at 94% in 2012 and consistently above 79% in recent years, demonstrating enduring reliance on this metric by prospective students.
Examining the SAT reading and math scores, we observe a steady increase in the 25th percentile scores, indicating that the university is attracting higher-achieving students. For instance, the lower boundary for SAT reading scores rose from 430 in 2007 to 580 in 2023, while the upper boundary also increased, reflecting a positive shift in the academic caliber of admitted students.
Conversely, the ACT submission rates and scores exhibit more variability. The percentage of students submitting ACT scores dropped significantly, with only 18% in 2022 and 29% in 2023. This decline may suggest a broader trend in higher education where fewer students opt for the ACT as a primary admissions test, potentially in response to institutions increasingly adopting test-optional policies.
Overall, these patterns indicate that Roberts Wesleyan University is successfully attracting a more academically prepared cohort of students, which may enhance the institution's reputation and academic outcomes. The fluctuating trends in standardized test submissions also highlight the evolving landscape of college admissions, where institutions must adapt to students' changing preferences for assessments.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
1,488 applicants in 2025, 70.6% admitted
1,051 admitted 437 not admitted Yield 19.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs · Master's41 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's40 (0% international)
- Social Work · Master's34 (3% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's32 (0% international)
- Reading Teacher Education · Master's19 (0% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Doctoral14 (7% international)
Data insights
Insights into Graduate Data at Roberts Wesleyan University
The graduation data for Roberts Wesleyan University in 2023 reveals several intriguing trends, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare. Notably, Special Education and Teaching has a significant number of master's graduates, totaling 63 students, indicating a strong emphasis on advanced training in this critical area. This aligns with the growing demand for specialized educators capable of addressing diverse learning needs.
In the healthcare sector, Registered Nursing stands out with 60 graduates at the bachelor's level. This reflects the ongoing need for qualified nursing professionals amidst a global healthcare crisis exacerbated by the recent pandemic. The absence of international students in both the nursing and special education programs suggests potential barriers for non-native students, which could be an area for the university to explore for future growth.
Additionally, programs such as Health Care Administration and Reading Teacher Education each produced 29 master's graduates. This indicates a robust interest in managerial roles within healthcare and the importance of foundational literacy skills in education, respectively.
Interestingly, there are no associate degree graduates reported in these fields, which might suggest a shift in focus towards higher degrees, reinforcing the notion that students are seeking more comprehensive qualifications to enhance their employability in competitive job markets.
Overall, the data illustrates a commitment to producing graduates equipped to meet contemporary societal needs, particularly in education and healthcare, which are pivotal for community development and well-being. The university could benefit from strategizing ways to attract more international students, further enriching its academic environment.
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 | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $49,957 | ||||
| Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs. | $49,957 | ||||
| Art Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| English/Language Arts Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| Mathematics Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| Music Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | $48,805 | ||||
| Reading Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| Social Studies Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| Biology Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| Chemistry Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| Spanish Language Teacher Education. | $48,805 | ||||
| Education, Other. | $47,774 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $57,551-$77,900 | ||||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||||
| Music Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||||
| Nursing Education. | $87,611 | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $82,242-$103,435 | ||||
| Nursing Administration. | $82,242-$103,435 | ||||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | $82,242-$103,435 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $53,986-$70,502 | ||||
| Accounting. | - | ||||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - | ||||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | $40,241-$55,939 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||||
| Clinical Psychology. | $67,219 | ||||
| School Psychology. | $67,219 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - | ||||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | - | ||||
| Homeland Security. | $48,081 | ||||
| Forensic Science and Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Biochemistry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - | ||||
| Music Performance, General. | - | ||||
| Voice and Opera. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | - |
Students
1,960 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 34:66 · Freshman retention 83.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 889
- First-year undergraduates 200
- Graduate students 567
- Transfers and others 304
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,393)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Roberts Wesleyan University in 2023
The student demographics at Roberts Wesleyan University in 2023 present an interesting picture of diversity and gender distribution. The total number of undergraduate freshmen stands at 211, with a notable gender ratio where 36.5% are male and 63.5% are female. This trend continues among other undergraduate categories, where the total of undergraduate juniors is 699, showing a higher female representation at 68%, while the transfer students number 123, with an even more pronounced female presence at 74.8%.
Graduate students, numbering 525, showcase the most significant gender disparity, with only 15.2% being male and a striking 84.8% female. This trend may reflect broader societal shifts towards higher female enrollment in graduate studies, which aligns with national data indicating that women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees at a higher rate than men.
In terms of racial and ethnic composition, the university appears to be working towards inclusivity, although specific breakdowns for graduate and junior students are not provided. For freshmen, the majority are white, followed by other ethnic groups, indicating a predominantly white student body, yet the presence of diverse backgrounds is essential in fostering a rich educational environment.
Overall, Roberts Wesleyan University demonstrates a significant gender imbalance, particularly in graduate programs, while showing a commitment to diversity. Continued efforts to attract a balanced demographic could enhance the university's educational experience, preparing students for a diverse workforce and society.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Roberts Wesleyan University
The age demographics of students at Roberts Wesleyan University in 2023 reflect a diverse and dynamic educational environment. The data reveals that the majority of undergraduate students fall within the 18-21 age range, with 124 male and 237 female undergraduates aged 18-19, and 115 male and 230 female undergraduates aged 20-21. This indicates a strong influx of young learners, which aligns with national trends where many students enter college immediately after high school.
Interestingly, the traditional college age group (18-24) constitutes a significant portion of the student body. However, the presence of older students, particularly those aged 25-29 and 30-34, shows a growing trend of non-traditional students pursuing higher education. The data indicates that there are 51 male and 120 female students aged 25-29, and 18 male and 56 female students aged 30-34, highlighting the university's appeal to a broader demographic.
The representation of graduate students, particularly in the 22-24 age range, also stands out, with 24 males and 82 females. This could suggest that the university is successfully attracting young professionals seeking advanced degrees.
Moreover, the data shows a relatively small number of students over the age of 50, with only 7 students aged 50-64 and 1 student over 65, which may reflect the challenges faced by older adults in pursuing further education or the specific programs offered by the university.
Overall, Roberts Wesleyan University demonstrates a commitment to serving a diverse student population, catering to both traditional and non-traditional students, which is crucial in today’s rapidly changing educational landscape.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
47 in 2025 · 3.8% in 2016
8 in 2025 · 2.1% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Trends at Roberts Wesleyan University
The data from Roberts Wesleyan University reveals a fluctuating trend in the enrollment of international students over the years. The number of undergraduate students has seen a gradual decline from a peak of 1,377 in 2012 to 1,048 in 2023. Correspondingly, the number of international undergraduates decreased from 53 to 35, resulting in a decrease in their representation from 4.01% to 3.34%. This decline may reflect broader trends in international student mobility, influenced by factors such as changes in visa regulations, global economic conditions, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The graduate programs show a similar pattern, with the total number of graduate students also decreasing from 551 in 2004 to 525 in 2023. The international graduate student representation has been notably low, fluctuating between 0.18% and 2.82%. The year 2015 marked the highest percentage at 2.82%, while 2023 reported only 0.57%.
This overall downward trend raises concerns about the university's attractiveness to international students, which could have implications for cultural diversity and financial stability, as international students often contribute significantly to tuition revenues. As universities navigate the post-pandemic landscape, addressing these challenges and enhancing support for international students will be crucial for re-establishing a robust international presence. Institutions may consider implementing targeted recruitment strategies and strengthening partnerships with global educational entities to counteract these declines.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$51,802
- Undergraduate tuition
- $38,826
- Room and board
- $12,976
- Graduate tuition
- $15,580
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 36% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$36.4M
Expenses$41.0M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · NCCAA · Other · East Coast Conference
East Coast Conference: basketball, cross country
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 62 | 42 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 63 | 41 |
| Soccer | 51 | 48 |
| Lacrosse | 41 | 22 |
| Basketball | 32 | 30 |
| Cross Country | 33 | 18 |
| Swimming | 18 | 19 |
| Volleyball | 22 | 12 |
| Other Sports | 11 | 8 |
| Field Hockey | - | 18 |
| Bowling | - | 10 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 52 | 46 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 46 | 35 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 42 | 35 |
| Lacrosse | 40 | 23 |
| Basketball | 28 | 24 |
| Swimming | 16 | 20 |
| Cross Country | 22 | 14 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 13 |
| Bowling | - | 14 |
| Field Hockey | - | 13 |
| Other Sports | - | 4 |
| NCAA Division II without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 48 | 43 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 42 | 35 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 35 | 33 |
| Lacrosse | 31 | 19 |
| Basketball | 27 | 20 |
| Cross Country | 19 | 18 |
| Swimming | 13 | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Bowling | - | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Rochester Institute of TechnologyRochester · 6.9 mi
U.S. News #95
-
University of RochesterRochester · 8.4 mi
U.S. News #49
-
Hobart and William Smith CollegesGeneva · 45.1 mi
Liberal Arts #60
-
University at BuffaloBuffalo · 50.8 mi
U.S. News #85
-
D'Youville UniversityBuffalo · 57.3 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Cornell UniversityIthaca · 81.5 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Syracuse UniversitySyracuse · 84.2 mi
U.S. News #72
-
Colgate UniversityHamilton · 116.3 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Binghamton UniversityVestal · 117.5 mi
U.S. News #73
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Roberts Wesleyan University:
-
University of Rochester - Ranked 47th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is known for its strong research programs and a vibrant campus life.
-
Rochester Institute of Technology - With a ranking of 98, this university specializes in career-oriented education and offers a wide range of programs in technology and the arts.
-
Cornell University - An Ivy League institution ranked 12th, Cornell is renowned for its diverse academic programs and world-class faculty.
-
Syracuse University - Ranked 67th, this comprehensive university is famous for its strong communication, business, and public affairs programs.
-
Binghamton University - With a ranking of 73, this university is part of the State University of New York system and is noted for its rigorous academic standards and research opportunities.
-
Hamilton College - This liberal arts college is ranked 16th and is known for its commitment to undergraduate teaching and a strong sense of community.
These schools offer a variety of academic programs and opportunities, making the area a vibrant educational hub.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities 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
Trends in Campus Crime Rates at Roberts Wesleyan University
Over the years, Roberts Wesleyan University has experienced notable fluctuations in its crime rates per 1,000 students. From 2013 to 2015, there was a concerning rise in incidents, particularly with a peak in 2015, where the crime rate reached 18.05 per 1,000 students. This spike may reflect broader societal issues or specific campus challenges during that period, emphasizing the need for effective interventions.
However, a positive trend emerged post-2015, as the average crime rate significantly decreased. By 2022, the rate dropped to 2.77 per 1,000 students, indicating successful efforts in crime prevention and safety measures. The consistent reduction in incidents suggests that the university's policies and community engagement initiatives could be effectively enhancing student safety.
Interestingly, the data reveals a particularly low incidence of violent crimes such as armed arrests and assaults on campus. This is encouraging, as it indicates a relatively safe environment for students. Nonetheless, the increasing number of drug-related arrests in recent years highlights an area that requires ongoing attention and resources.
As we analyze these trends, it is crucial to recognize the importance of continuous monitoring and improvement of campus safety strategies. The decline in crime rates is commendable, but sustained efforts are essential to maintain a secure environment conducive to learning. For further insights on crime rates and their calculations, you can refer to this resource: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Roberts Wesleyan College include Jennifer Suhr (Pole vaulter, Olympic and World champion), Malcolm Shaw (Canadian soccer forward) and Anthony Watson (Skeleton racer who represented Jamaica at 2018 Olympics).
-
Jennifer Suhr 1982–
Pole vaulter, Olympic and World champion
-
Malcolm Shaw 1995–
Canadian soccer forward
-
Anthony Watson 1989–
Skeleton racer who represented Jamaica at 2018 Olympics
-
Juan Pablo Galavis 1981–
Reality TV star on The Bachelor, former soccer player
-
Sharon Sweet 1951–
Dramatic soprano opera singer
-
Brian Kolb 1952–
Former New York Assembly minority leader
-
Laurel Libby 1981–
Republican member of the Maine House of Representatives
-
Jesus Paesch 1986–
Footballer who played for Aruba national team
-
Timothy D. Bellavia 1971–
Children's author and educator
More alumni (5, by field)
Politics and law
-
David Gantt 1941–2020
New York Assembly member from 1983 to 2020
Science and academia
-
Adam Christopher Earnheardt 1970–
Communication professor at Youngstown State University
Arts and media
-
Daniel Bennett 1979–
Saxophonist known for folk jazz
Sports
-
Richard Goddard 1978–
Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper and coach
-
Michael Cunningham 1991–
English footballer
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.