Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Acceptance rate
66.2%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$33,550
$43,824 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
765
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
27.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 34.1%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Oklahoma Wesleyan University (OKWU) is a private Christian liberal arts university located in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Founded in 1909, the university has a rich history rooted in the Wesleyan tradition, emphasizing a holistic approach to education that integrates academic rigor with spiritual and moral development. The university's mission is guided by its commitment to providing a Christ-centered education, preparing students for lives of service, leadership, and integrity. The campus culture fosters a vibrant community where students are encouraged to grow not only academically but also in their faith and personal character.
OKWU boasts a diverse range of academic programs, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields such as business, education, theology, and the liberal arts. The student-to-faculty ratio is favorable, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty members who are dedicated to student success. The university also emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities to engage in internships, community service, and study abroad programs. Additionally, the campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, recreational areas, and a library, which enhance the overall educational experience. With a strong emphasis on athletics, OKWU participates in various sports, encouraging students to maintain a balanced lifestyle and foster teamwork and discipline. Overall, Oklahoma Wesleyan University stands out as an institution that nurtures the intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth of its students while preparing them for meaningful futures.
Discussion on Key Data Trends at Oklahoma Wesleyan University
Oklahoma Wesleyan University has witnessed significant trends over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates. The tuition for undergraduate students has steadily increased from approximately $22,252 in 2014 to $31,466 in 2024, showing an annual growth rate that far exceeds general inflation rates. This rise in tuition could pose financial challenges for prospective students, potentially impacting enrollment numbers in the coming years.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a notable decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 1,214 in 2014 to just 722 in 2023. This trend raises concerns about the institution's attractiveness and the potential implications for its financial health. A shrinking student body can lead to decreased revenues, which may further exacerbate the challenges of rising tuition costs.
Graduation rates at Oklahoma Wesleyan have experienced fluctuations, with the on-time graduation rate for undergraduates peaking at around 49.5% in 2016 but dropping significantly in subsequent years, notably falling to just over 3% in 2020. This sharp decline during the pandemic could be attributed to various factors, including the transition to remote learning and the socioeconomic challenges faced by students. However, the graduation rate has shown signs of recovery, reaching approximately 30.6% in 2023.
Retention rates have also varied, with a peak of 62.3% in 2021 but a decrease to about 54.4% in 2023. Retention is crucial for universities, as maintaining students through to graduation is essential for institutional stability and reputation. The combination of rising tuition, declining enrollment, and fluctuating graduation and retention rates suggests that Oklahoma Wesleyan University may need to reassess its strategies to enhance student support, financial aid offerings, and overall educational quality to remain competitive in the higher education landscape.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Tulsa, about 40 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Tulsa International Airport (TUL), about 35 mi
- Also known as
- OKWU or OWU
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Wesleyan
- President
- James Dunn (President)
- Phone
- 9183336151
- City
- Bartlesville, Oklahoma
- Address
- 2201 Silver Lake Rd, Bartlesville, OK 74006-6299
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 55.1%, women 58.8%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Oklahoma Wesleyan University
The admission data for Oklahoma Wesleyan University reveals several noteworthy trends over the years from 2011 to 2023. Overall, the university has experienced fluctuations in both male and female admission rates, with significant variations that merit discussion.
In 2011, the admission rates for male and female applicants were approximately 64.8% and 65.98%, respectively. These rates generally show a declining trend, particularly evident in 2014 when the male admission rate dropped to around 49.8%. However, a notable recovery was seen in 2016, with male admission rates soaring to approximately 93.6%. This spike, alongside a female admission rate of 95.4%, suggests a possible shift in the university's enrollment strategy or a response to changing applicant demographics.
The enrollment numbers also illustrate how competitive the university has become, peaking at 222 students in 2017. Despite this, the number of applicants denied has remained significant, reaching as high as 1183 in 2014. This indicates that while the university is attracting more applicants, it is also becoming increasingly selective.
Interestingly, the data shows a rise in deferred admissions, particularly in more recent years, which may reflect the impact of external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic on students' decisions about attending college. As universities navigate these challenges, understanding these trends will be crucial for prospective students and the institution alike, as they inform future admissions strategies and potential shifts in academic offerings.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Test Scores at Oklahoma Wesleyan University
The data from Oklahoma Wesleyan University reveals a fluctuating trend in admission test scores over the years, particularly for the SAT and ACT. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has varied, with a peak of 37% in 2021 and a low of 9% in 2012. This inconsistency may reflect broader changes in the higher education landscape, where test-optional policies have gained traction, allowing students to apply without submitting standardized test scores.
In terms of performance, the SAT reading and math scores show a gradual improvement, with the 25th percentile scores moving from as low as 370 in 2013 to 460 in 2023 for reading. This upward trend suggests that the university is attracting higher-caliber students over time. Conversely, the 75th percentile scores have shown some variability, indicating that while the lower end of scores is improving, the top-performing students' scores are less consistent.
The ACT scores present a similar narrative, where the 25th percentile scores indicate a consistent baseline, but the 75th percentile scores fluctuate significantly. This could imply that while the university is successfully drawing in more students who meet a minimum threshold, the elite students are less predictable in their performance.
Overall, the data suggests a positive trend in the quality of applicants as reflected in their test scores, albeit with some variability that may necessitate further investigation into changing admissions strategies or external factors influencing student performance. This analysis underscores the importance of understanding broader trends in standardized testing and admissions in the context of evolving educational policies.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
810 applicants in 2025, 66.2% admitted
536 admitted 274 not admitted Yield 38.1%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's23 (22% international)
- Education, General · Master's8 (0% international)
- Nursing Practice · Doctoral8 (0% international)
- Nursing Science · Master's3 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's3 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Doctoral1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Oklahoma Wesleyan University
The graduation data from Oklahoma Wesleyan University for 2023 reveals notable trends across various fields of study, particularly in healthcare and education. The Registered Nursing program stands out with 24 graduates, reflecting the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has accentuated the importance of nursing roles in society. This trend is corroborated by national statistics indicating a projected shortage of nurses in the coming years.
In the realm of education, multiple programs such as Elementary Education and Teaching, as well as Early Childhood Education and Teaching, show a modest number of graduates. This suggests a steady interest in these fields, which are crucial for foundational learning and development in young children. However, the absence of graduates in certain educational programs might indicate gaps or potential areas for growth within the institution.
Interestingly, the data highlights a significant presence of international students in specific areas, particularly in Digital Communication and Media, where one international student graduated. This points to a growing interest among international students in programs that are aligned with global communication trends.
Moreover, the business sector, while having several programs listed, shows limited graduate numbers, suggesting a need for enhanced curriculum offerings or marketing strategies to attract more students to these programs. The absence of graduates in many business-related fields may reflect a shift in student interests or increased competition from other institutions.
Overall, the graduation data not only provides insight into the university's educational focus but also underscores the evolving dynamics of job markets influenced by global events and societal needs. The university may benefit from strategic adjustments to its offerings in response to these trends.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $83,496 | ||||
| Nursing Science. | $83,496 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $83,496 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | ||||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $55,829 | ||||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | - | ||||
| Political Science and Government, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | ||||
| Missions/Missionary Studies. | - | ||||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Studies. | - |
Students
880 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 53:47 · Freshman retention 50.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 403
- First-year undergraduates 199
- Graduate students 115
- Transfers and others 163
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (765)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Oklahoma Wesleyan University in 2023
The student population at Oklahoma Wesleyan University in 2023 reflects a diverse and dynamic environment for learning. The undergraduate freshmen, numbering 199, show a notable male representation of 59.3%, which indicates a slight gender imbalance favoring males. This trend continues among the undergraduate juniors, who total 449 students, with males comprising 53.9% of that group. The undergraduate transfer students, although fewer at 74, also have a relatively high male representation at 56.8%.
In stark contrast, the graduate students, totaling 126, present a significantly different demographic profile, with only 34.1% being male. This suggests a growing trend of female students pursuing advanced degrees, which aligns with national patterns where more women are enrolling in and completing graduate programs.
Looking at the racial and ethnic breakdown of the student body, the data suggests that white students form a substantial part of the population across different categories. For instance, among freshmen, 61.6% of the demographic is white, highlighting the ongoing discussions surrounding diversity and inclusion in higher education.
These demographics are crucial as universities strive to create an inclusive atmosphere that supports students of all backgrounds. As higher education institutions continue to evolve, understanding these statistics is essential for addressing the needs of a diverse student body and fostering an educational environment that promotes equity and representation.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Oklahoma Wesleyan University
The age demographic data of students at Oklahoma Wesleyan University for 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the composition of the student body. The majority of the students fall within the traditional college age range of 18-24, with 149 males and 121 females aged 18-19, and 124 males and 95 females aged 20-21. This indicates a strong representation of young adults, reflecting the university's appeal to those pursuing undergraduate education.
Interestingly, while the number of male undergraduates in the 18-21 age range is relatively high, there is a noticeable decline in student numbers as age increases. For instance, the numbers drop significantly for students aged 25-29, where only 13 males and 28 females are enrolled. This trend may suggest that as students progress through their academic journeys, some may choose to enter the workforce earlier or may not pursue higher education, a phenomenon often seen in today's job market where immediate work experience is highly valued.
Moreover, the data shows a modest representation of graduate students, particularly in older age brackets. The highest number of graduate females is seen in the 40-49 age range, which could point to a growing trend of mature students seeking further education to enhance their career prospects or to switch fields.
Overall, the age distribution highlights the university's strong focus on younger students while also accommodating older learners, reflecting the diverse educational aspirations of individuals in today's society. This demographic insight can be essential for the university in tailoring programs and support services to meet the varying needs of its student population.
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.
39 in 2025 · 2.6% in 2016
13 in 2025 · 3.4% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at Oklahoma Wesleyan University
The data on international students at Oklahoma Wesleyan University reveals a nuanced trend over the years. The total number of undergraduate students peaked at 1,214 in 2014, while the figure for international students fluctuated significantly, with a notable high of 67 in 2015. The percentage of international undergraduate students saw a gradual increase over time, reaching a peak of 8.09% in 2021. This indicates a growing recognition of the importance of diversifying the student body, aligning with broader trends in U.S. higher education where institutions are increasingly seeking international talent to enhance cultural exchange and academic collaboration.
For graduate students, the numbers tell a similar story, albeit with a more stable growth in participation. The percentage of international graduate students has also shown a positive trend, particularly from 2020 onwards, where it reached 9.52% in 2023. This is significant as it reflects a commitment from the university to attract a diverse pool of graduate students, which is essential for fostering global perspectives in advanced studies.
Overall, the fluctuations in the numbers of international students at Oklahoma Wesleyan University can be attributed to various factors such as global economic conditions, changes in visa policies, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted educational systems worldwide. The gradual increase in the percentage of international students, particularly in recent years, suggests that the university is effectively positioning itself as a welcoming institution for international scholars, which is crucial for its academic integrity and global engagement initiatives.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$43,824
- Undergraduate tuition
- $33,550
- Room and board
- $10,274
- Graduate tuition
- $10,995
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 39% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 31%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$18.8M
Expenses$20.4M
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 NAIA · NCCAA · Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference
Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 69 | 40 |
| Baseball | 103 | - |
| Basketball | 56 | 25 |
| Softball | - | 52 |
| Volleyball | - | 34 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 14 | 14 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Wrestling | 19 | - |
| Tennis | 6 | 8 |
| Golf | 8 | 5 |
| Other Sports | 9 | - |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 73 | 38 |
| Baseball | 97 | - |
| Basketball | 49 | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 40 |
| Softball | - | 39 |
| Wrestling | 22 | - |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Golf | 13 | 6 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 6 | 6 |
| Tennis | 5 | 5 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 5 | 5 |
| Cross Country | 5 | 5 |
| Other Sports | 9 | - |
| NAIA Division II | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 75 | 35 |
| Baseball | 78 | - |
| Basketball | 47 | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 37 |
| Softball | - | 36 |
| Other Sports | 21 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 10 | 9 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 10 | 8 |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| Wrestling | 14 | - |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 14 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 6 |
| Tennis | 7 | 1 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
University of TulsaTulsa · 39.1 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 74.3 mi
U.S. News #191
-
Wichita State UniversityWichita · 100.9 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of ArkansasFayetteville · 108.6 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 133.3 mi
U.S. News #116
-
University of KansasLawrence · 159.6 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Kansas State UniversityManhattan · 174.1 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Missouri--Kansas CityKansas City · 176.8 mi
U.S. News #250
-
Hendrix CollegeConway · 226.1 mi
Liberal Arts #100
Data insights
Here are some notable universities located near Oklahoma Wesleyan University:
-
University of Tulsa - Ranked 195 in the 2024 US News, the University of Tulsa is a private research university known for its strong programs in engineering, law, and business.
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - With a ranking of 185, Oklahoma State University is a comprehensive public institution offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly renowned for its agricultural and engineering disciplines.
-
University of Arkansas - Ranked 178, the University of Arkansas is a public research university with a vibrant campus life and strong academic programs in business, education, and engineering.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - This public research university is ranked 124 and is well-known for its excellent programs in meteorology, engineering, and business administration.
-
University of Kansas - Ranked 151, the University of Kansas is a public research university recognized for its contributions to education, health, and engineering.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a ranking of 89, Southern Methodist University is a private research university located in Dallas, Texas, celebrated for its programs in business, law, and the arts.
These institutions highlight the rich educational landscape surrounding Oklahoma Wesleyan University, offering a variety of programs and opportunities for students.
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
Crime Trends at Oklahoma Wesleyan University
The crime statistics at Oklahoma Wesleyan University reflect a notable fluctuation in the recorded incidents over the years, highlighting various trends. The data shows a peak in the average number of crimes reported per 1,000 students in 2015, with a rate of 8.92, which is significantly higher than the subsequent years. Interestingly, there was a dramatic decline in crime rates in 2021, where the average fell to only 2.36 per 1,000 students, indicating a possible improvement in campus safety or reporting practices.
The types of crimes recorded include serious offenses such as gun-related incidents, drug arrests, and alcohol-related offenses. Throughout the years, incidents of gun-related arrests remained conspicuously low, suggesting effective policies in gun control on campus. However, the data raises concerns regarding drug and alcohol-related arrests, given their consistent presence in the statistics.
Overall, while the university has made strides towards reducing crime rates, the fluctuations and occasional spikes—like those observed in 2013 and 2015—call for ongoing attention to campus safety strategies. It is essential for institutions to not only respond to crime but also proactively implement preventive measures to foster a safer educational environment. This trend aligns with broader discussions in society about campus safety, mental health, and the need for resources to combat substance abuse among students.
For a deeper understanding of crime rate calculations, you can visit the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Oklahoma Wesleyan University include Lucas Cordeiro (Brazilian professional soccer forward), Wilbur Nelson (American Christian radio broadcaster, minister and gospel singer) and Jordan Tata (Former MLB pitcher for the Detroit Tigers).
-
Lucas Cordeiro 1991–
Brazilian professional soccer forward
-
Wilbur Nelson 1910–2003
American Christian radio broadcaster, minister and gospel singer
-
Jordan Tata 1981–
Former MLB pitcher for the Detroit Tigers
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.