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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Dakota Wesleyan University

Mitchell, South Dakota · www.dwu.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

73.4%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$33,790

$41,890 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

771

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

43.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 46.1%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU) is a private university located in Mitchell, South Dakota. Established in 1885, DWU has a rich history and a commitment to providing a high-quality liberal arts education. The university embodies the principles of the United Methodist Church, which is reflected in its values and mission. DWU emphasizes the importance of service, leadership, and community engagement, encouraging students to become responsible citizens and effective leaders. The campus culture fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity, creating a supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

Academically, Dakota Wesleyan University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning. The university's faculty consists of dedicated educators who are not only knowledgeable in their fields but also committed to mentoring students. The small class sizes ensure personalized attention, allowing students to thrive academically and socially. DWU is also known for its vibrant campus life, featuring various student organizations, athletic programs, and community service opportunities. The university's commitment to student success is evident in its comprehensive support services, which include academic advising, career counseling, and wellness programs. As a result, graduates from Dakota Wesleyan University are well-prepared for their future careers and often find success in various professional fields.

Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates at Dakota Wesleyan University

Dakota Wesleyan University, a private institution, has witnessed significant changes in its tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition costs for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have shown a consistent upward trend, increasing from $22,700 in 2014 to $32,890 in 2024. This represents a staggering increase of over 44% in just a decade, which could be a significant burden for prospective students and their families, particularly in an era where student debt is a growing concern in the United States.

In terms of enrollment, the undergraduate student population saw fluctuations, peaking at 905 students in 2016 before declining to 723 by 2023. This decline could be attributed to rising tuition costs and possibly changing demographics or preferences in higher education. Interestingly, the number of graduate students has shown a more consistent increase, reaching 164 in 2023, which could indicate a growing trend in the pursuit of advanced degrees.

Graduation rates have also displayed variability. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from around 24% in 2013 to 47% in 2021, but then dropped to 39% in 2023. This drop raises questions about the factors affecting student success and retention, especially as retention rates have remained relatively stable around 68-77% during this period.

Overall, the rising tuition, fluctuating enrollment, and shifting graduation rates at Dakota Wesleyan University reflect broader trends in higher education, where financial pressures and changing student needs continue to reshape the landscape of college education.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Omaha, about 200 mi
Nearest international airport
Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), about 250 mi
Mitchell, South Dakota
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Daniel R. Kittle (President)
Phone
6059952600
City
Mitchell, South Dakota
Address
1200 W University Ave, Mitchell, SD 57301-4398

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
75.2%
Women
70.1%

In 2020: men 63.4%, women 72.9%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Dakota Wesleyan University

The admission statistics for Dakota Wesleyan University over the years reveal significant trends and fluctuations in both male and female acceptance rates. In 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 77.14%, while for females, it stood at 72.02%. This trend of male acceptance rates generally being higher than female counterparts has continued throughout the years, although the gap has varied.
Notably, the years 2020 and 2021 show a marked decline in acceptance rates, with male acceptance dropping to 63.36% and 61.50%, respectively. This decline may reflect broader challenges faced by universities during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased competition for a limited number of spots due to changing enrollment patterns. The substantial number of rejections during these years, with figures reaching 436 and 305, indicates that the university faced a surge in applications while also grappling with capacity constraints.
Interestingly, in 2022 and 2023, there was a rebound in the acceptance rates for males to 77.51% and 75.21%, respectively, alongside a notable increase in enrollment numbers. This could suggest a recovery in the university's appeal post-pandemic, possibly due to strategic initiatives aimed at attracting prospective students.
Overall, Dakota Wesleyan University exhibits a dynamic admission landscape that responds to external factors such as economic conditions and global events. Continuous monitoring of these trends is essential for understanding future enrollment strategies and maintaining the institution's academic standards.

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

Nursing School#394▲33

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

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 Dakota Wesleyan University

The data from Dakota Wesleyan University presents an intriguing overview of admission test scores over the years, revealing both trends and fluctuations in academic standards. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT and ACT scores has varied significantly, with a peak of 16% of applicants submitting SAT scores in 2007, tapering down to as low as 3% in recent years. This decline may reflect a broader national trend towards test-optional admissions policies, which many institutions have adopted in response to growing concerns about the equity and accessibility of standardized testing.

Examining the score ranges, we observe that the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for SAT reading and math have shown some variability. For instance, the SAT reading scores have fluctuated from a low of 340 to a high of 470, indicating a diverse applicant pool with differing academic preparedness. The ACT scores present a similar picture, with applicants exhibiting a wide range of competencies.

The data also highlights an upward trend in the overall performance of admitted students, particularly in the most recent years. The 75th percentile SAT reading score reached 700 in 2023, a notable improvement compared to earlier years. This may suggest that the university is becoming more selective, attracting higher-achieving students, or that students are increasingly preparing for these exams.

In conclusion, Dakota Wesleyan University’s admissions data not only illustrates the changing landscape of college admissions but also signals a possible shift in the university's commitment to academic excellence. The implications of these trends merit further exploration, especially in light of national discussions on the relevance and fairness of standardized testing in higher education.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

1,247 applicants in 2025, 73.4% admitted

915 admitted 332 not admitted Yield 21.0%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate60 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's1344 international (3.0%)
Master's460 international (0.0%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
33
Elementary Education and Teaching
15
Business Administration and Management, General
14
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
11
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies
9
Exercise Science and Kinesiology
6
Organizational Leadership
6
Accounting
5
Biochemistry
5
Digital Arts
5

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other · Master's21 (0% international)
  • Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management · Master's13 (0% international)
  • Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's5 (0% international)
  • Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's3 (0% international)
  • Educational Administration and Supervision, Other · Master's2 (0% international)
  • Curriculum and Instruction · Master's1 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Trends at Dakota Wesleyan University in 2023

The graduation data from Dakota Wesleyan University reveals intriguing trends in the distribution of degrees awarded across various disciplines in 2023. Notably, the fields of Business and Health Sciences stand out as the most popular, with significant numbers of graduates earning bachelor's and master's degrees. For instance, the Registered Nursing program produced 35 bachelor's graduates, highlighting the growing demand for healthcare professionals in today's job market.

In contrast, certain fields such as Education and Psychology have a relatively balanced output, with 17 bachelor's degrees awarded in both areas. This consistency may reflect a stable interest in these sectors, despite the shifting educational landscape and the impact of the pandemic on traditional learning environments.

Interestingly, the data indicates a minimal number of international students graduating across most programs. This is particularly evident in the Business and Health categories, where international representation is almost nonexistent. This could be indicative of broader trends in U.S. higher education, where international enrollment has faced challenges in recent years due to policy changes and global events.

Moreover, the data shows that certain programs, like Athletic Training and Exercise Science, produced a modest number of graduates, suggesting a niche yet vital role in promoting health and wellness.

Overall, Dakota Wesleyan University’s graduation statistics for 2023 underscore the institution's strengths in Business and Health Sciences while reflecting broader educational trends. As the job market continues to evolve, it will be crucial for educational institutions to adapt their offerings to meet emerging demands.

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

Businesshas 75 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$48,437
Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management.$48,437
Organizational Leadership.$48,437
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.$48,437
Accounting.-
Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies.-
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other.$59,376
Health professionshas 38 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Athletic Training/Trainer.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$74,071
Educationhas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$44,722
Educational Administration and Supervision, Other.$44,722
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Mathematics Teacher Education.-
Music Teacher Education.-
History Teacher Education.-
Homeland security has 11 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.-
Biologyhas 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Exercise Science and Kinesiology.-
Visual and Performing artshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Digital Arts.-
Natural resources has 4 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Wildlife, Fish and Wildlands Science and Management.-
Psychology has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Behavioral Sciences.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
Communication has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.-

Students

892 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 47:53 · Freshman retention 75.1%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (771)

White
630 · 81.7%
Hispanic
50 · 6.5%
Two or more races
37 · 4.8%
International
23 · 3.0%
Black
15 · 1.9%
Asian
3 · 0.4%
Unknown
3 · 0.4%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Dakota Wesleyan University in 2023

The student population at Dakota Wesleyan University in 2023 reflects a diverse and dynamic academic community. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 179 students, with a notable male representation of 58.7% and female representation of 41.3%. This indicates a healthier gender balance compared to the overall undergraduate population.

For undergraduate continuing students, the enrollment rises to 384, with females slightly outnumbering males, showing 46.9% male and 53.1% female. This shift could suggest a positive trend towards female enrollment in higher education, reflecting broader national trends where more women are pursuing degrees.

Undergraduate transfer students constitute a smaller group of 69 individuals, with 42% male and 58% female. This demographic could be indicative of changing academic paths for students, possibly influenced by factors such as job market demands or personal interests.

Graduate students comprise 164 individuals, with a gender ratio of 44.5% male and 55.5% female, which again underscores female participation in advanced studies. This trend is consistent with national statistics showing that women are increasingly pursuing graduate degrees, often in fields that were traditionally male-dominated.

Notably, the data on specific ethnic demographics within these categories is unavailable for the continuing, transfer, and graduate students. However, the presence of a diverse student body is essential in fostering an inclusive educational environment. Overall, Dakota Wesleyan University appears to be making strides in gender equity and inclusivity, aligning with national trends in higher education participation.

Age Composition of Students at Dakota Wesleyan University in 2023

The age distribution data for students at Dakota Wesleyan University reveals interesting trends regarding the demographics of the student body. A substantial portion of students falls within the traditional college age range of 18-21, with the 18-19 age group comprising approximately 28% of the total male and female students. Similarly, the 20-21 age group contributes around 26%. This indicates that the university primarily attracts younger students, which is consistent with national trends in higher education where traditional-age students dominate enrollment figures.

As we look at the older age brackets, there is a noticeable decline in enrollment. For instance, only 10% of the student body falls within the 22-24 age range, and those aged 25 and above together constitute less than 5% of the total. This suggests that Dakota Wesleyan University may be less appealing to non-traditional students who are often balancing education with work or family commitments.

Moreover, the gender distribution shows a slightly higher number of female students compared to male students across most age categories, particularly in the younger brackets. This reflects a broader trend in higher education, where female enrollment has been on the rise and often surpasses that of male students.

Overall, the data underscores the youthful demographic of Dakota Wesleyan University, while also highlighting the need for strategies to engage older students. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, understanding these demographics will be essential for tailoring programs and resources to meet the diverse needs of the student population.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates3.0%

23 in 2025 · 1.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.8%2017: 1.5%2018: 1.5%2019: 1.5%2020: 1.5%2021: 0.4%2022: 1.3%2023: 2.1%2024: 2.1%2025: 3.0%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students0.8%

1 in 2025 · 1.2% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.2%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 3.3%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.6%2024: 0.8%2025: 0.8%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Dakota Wesleyan University

The data on international student enrollment at Dakota Wesleyan University reveals interesting trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a notable peak in 2016 at 905 students. However, the representation of international students has generally remained low, with their percentage in the undergraduate population peaking at 2.07% in 2023, indicating a slight upward trend in recent years.

In contrast, the graduate student enrollment has shown a different pattern. The number of graduate students has increased, but the proportion of international students has varied significantly. For example, in 2013, the percentage of international students in the graduate program reached 5.19%, but this figure dropped to a mere 0.61% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the university's ability to attract and retain international graduate students, which could be influenced by various factors, including competition from other institutions and changing immigration policies.

Overall, while Dakota Wesleyan University has seen some growth in international student enrollment at the undergraduate level, the graduate program's international student representation appears to be declining. This trend could affect the university's diversity and global engagement, which are essential components of a well-rounded educational experience. The institution may need to reassess its strategies to attract international students, particularly at the graduate level, to enhance its academic community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$41,890

Undergraduate tuition
$33,790
Room and board
$8,100
Graduate tuition
$15,300
Tuition and room and board over time

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 13%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$24.2M

Tuition and fees
$10.2M42.0%
Investment return
$5.5M22.7%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.8M15.8%
Gifts and private grants
$3.2M13.2%
Sales and services of educational activities
$989K4.1%
Government grants and contracts
$559K2.3%

Expenses$22.2M

Student services
$6.0M27.1%
Instruction
$5.4M24.4%
Institutional support
$4.9M22.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$4.2M18.8%
Academic support
$995K4.5%
Public service
$402K1.8%
Research
$152K0.7%
Other
$133K0.6%

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.

All faculty
$62,660peers $65,931
Professor
$67,197peers $77,501
Associate professor
$59,583peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$61,513peers $61,725
Instructor
$59,776peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Great Plains Athletic Conference

Great Plains Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer3027
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3521
Football55-
Basketball1416
Baseball21-
Softball-21
Wrestling147
Volleyball-16
Golf96
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer3925
Football58-
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)2421
Basketball1715
Wrestling1410
Baseball23-
Softball-23
Volleyball-13
Golf66
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)3630
Football56-
Soccer3122
Baseball34-
Basketball1618
Softball-21
Golf98
Wrestling131
Volleyball-11

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Dakota Wesleyan University:

  1. South Dakota State University - Ranked 296 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. University of South Dakota - With a ranking of 269, this university is known for its strong emphasis on research and offers diverse academic programs.

  3. Creighton University - This comprehensive university is ranked 124 and is recognized for its commitment to liberal arts education and professional programs.

  4. Gustavus Adolphus College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, it holds the 67th position in rankings and is known for its strong academic programs and campus community.

  5. University of Nebraska-Lincoln - Ranked 159, this university offers a wide array of programs and is known for its research initiatives.

  6. Saint John's University - This liberal arts college ranks 82nd and emphasizes a holistic education with a strong community focus.

  7. St Olaf College - Ranked 51, it is one of the top liberal arts colleges in the nation, known for its rigorous academics and vibrant student life.

  8. Carleton College - With a stellar ranking of 9, Carleton is recognized for its excellent liberal arts education and strong faculty-student collaboration.

These institutions provide a diverse array of educational opportunities in the region, catering to various academic interests and career goals.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
108
Weapons referrals
1
Drug referrals
1

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Dakota Wesleyan University

The crime data for Dakota Wesleyan University over the past decade reveals some notable trends regarding campus safety. In 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was 12.46, which indicates a relatively higher frequency of incidents compared to subsequent years. There was a peak in 2014, reaching 15.70, but this was followed by a decline, with a significant drop in 2016 to 6.05.

The data shows fluctuations in crime rates, with highs and lows experienced in various years. For instance, the average crime rate was particularly low in 2017, at just 5.02, suggesting improved safety measures or perhaps a decline in criminal activity. However, the rates began to rise again in 2018 and 2019, reflecting an increase in reported incidents.

Interestingly, 2021 saw a notable decrease in the crime rate to 6.22, but the numbers bounced back slightly in 2022, hitting 9.94. In 2023, the average crime rate was reported at 9.02, indicating a slight decrease from the previous year but still above the low point of 2017.

It is essential to recognize that crime rates can be influenced by various factors, including campus policies, community engagement, and even broader societal trends. As universities continue to focus on enhancing safety and support for students, it will be crucial to monitor how these efforts impact crime rates in the coming years. The ongoing conversation around campus safety and resources will play a vital role in understanding and addressing these fluctuations.

For a detailed understanding of crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Dakota Wesleyan University include George McGovern (Former US Senator from South Dakota), Vera C. Bushfield (U.S. senator from South Dakota in 1948) and Clinton Anderson (Senator from New Mexico, former Agriculture Secretary).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

Science and academia

Arts and media

Sports

  • Ralph Siewert 1923–1990

    Professional basketball player

  • Marcus Haley 1972–

    IFBB bodybuilder

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.