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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Tennessee Wesleyan University

Athens, Tennessee · www.tnwesleyan.edu

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Acceptance rate

68.8%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$30,814

$40,272 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

918

Student-faculty ratio 12:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

31.3%

4-year; 6-year rate 50.0%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

Tennessee Wesleyan University, located in Athens, Tennessee, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success. Established in 1857, the university has a rich history and a tradition of fostering a close-knit community. The campus environment is characterized by its welcoming atmosphere, where students are encouraged to engage in various extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports. The university's commitment to a holistic education is reflected in its motto, "A Higher Education in Every Sense," which emphasizes the importance of intellectual growth, character development, and service to others.

One of the standout features of Tennessee Wesleyan is its dedicated faculty, who are committed to providing personalized attention to students. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students benefit from meaningful interactions and mentorship opportunities. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with popular majors including Business, Nursing, and Education. In addition to academics, Tennessee Wesleyan has a vibrant campus life, featuring various athletic programs that encourage teamwork and school spirit. The university's strong connections with local industries and its emphasis on experiential learning provide students with valuable internship and employment opportunities upon graduation, making it a great choice for those seeking a well-rounded education and a pathway to future success.

Analysis of Key Data Trends at Tennessee Wesleyan University

Tennessee Wesleyan University has shown significant trends in tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. Firstly, the tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has steadily increased, rising from $21,800 in 2014 to $29,264 in 2024. This reflects a broader trend in higher education where college affordability continues to be a pressing issue for students and families, potentially limiting access to education for many.

In terms of student enrollment, there has been a notable decline in undergraduate numbers from 1,107 in 2013 to 929 in 2023. Such a decrease could be indicative of changing demographics, increased competition among institutions, or perhaps dissatisfaction with the university’s offerings. This decline in enrollment may also correlate with the rising tuition rates, which could deter prospective students.

Graduation rates have displayed some fluctuation, with the on-time graduation rate hovering around 30% in recent years, and a slightly higher 150% graduation rate climbing to approximately 48% in 2023. These figures suggest that while a portion of students do manage to graduate, a significant number are taking longer to complete their degrees, which could be a concern for the university's effectiveness in supporting student success.

Retention rates, however, have shown improvement, increasing from approximately 63% in 2013 to about 75% in 2023. This is a positive sign, indicating that once students are enrolled, the university is better at keeping them through to their second year and beyond. The university's efforts in enhancing student support services may be contributing to this upward trend.

Overall, while Tennessee Wesleyan University is facing challenges with rising tuition and declining enrollment, its improvement in retention rates and a relatively stable graduation rate suggest a focused approach to student engagement and support. Addressing the affordability issue will be crucial for the university to attract and retain a diverse student body in the coming years.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Chattanooga, about 45 mi
Nearest international airport
Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), about 130 mi
Athens, Tennessee
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
United Methodist
President
Tyler Forrest (President)
Phone
4237457504
City
Athens, Tennessee
Address
204 East College Street, Athens, TN 37303

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
66.4%
Women
70.1%

In 2020: men 62.9%, women 60.5%.

Data insights

Analysis of Tennessee Wesleyan University's Admission Trends

Tennessee Wesleyan University has demonstrated notable fluctuations in its admission statistics over the years, particularly regarding acceptance rates for male and female applicants. The data reveals a significant decline in acceptance rates, especially for male applicants, reaching as low as 50.5% in 2022. This trend suggests a tightening admission process, which could be attributed to a combination of factors such as increased competition among applicants and potentially shifting institutional priorities.
Interestingly, female applicants maintained a higher acceptance rate compared to their male counterparts throughout the years, with a peak acceptance rate of 90.5% in 2011. This consistent pattern may indicate a strategic focus on promoting gender equity within the student body.
Furthermore, the overall enrollment numbers have shown a decrease, with the highest recorded enrollment of 264 students in 2009 dropping to 183 by 2022. This decline in enrollment could be a result of external factors, such as demographic shifts or changes in the higher education landscape, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected college admissions nationwide.
The number of students denied admission has notably increased, reaching a peak of 406 denials in 2021. This suggests that while the university is receiving a steady number of applications, it is becoming increasingly selective.
In conclusion, Tennessee Wesleyan University's admission data reflects broader trends in higher education, highlighting challenges in maintaining enrollment numbers while striving for a diverse and qualified student body. Stakeholders may need to consider innovative strategies to attract and retain students in this evolving landscape.

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#506▼26

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 · 1% submitted SAT, 74% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

ACT composite19–23
ACT composite
19–23
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admissions Data at Tennessee Wesleyan University

The admissions data from Tennessee Wesleyan University over the years reveals several notable trends regarding standardized test scores and submission rates. The percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak of 17% in 2017, indicating a growing trend towards standardized testing during that period. However, this percentage has since stabilized around 10% in recent years, suggesting that students may be shifting their focus away from standardized testing, possibly due to the increasing number of institutions adopting test-optional policies.

The range of SAT Reading and Mathematics scores among admitted students has shown some variation. While the lower end of the scores has generally remained around the 390-480 range, the upper end has seen a slight increase, reaching 620 in 2019. This shift may reflect an increasingly competitive applicant pool, as universities aim to attract higher-achieving students.

Similarly, the ACT score ranges have also exhibited some fluctuations. While the minimum scores have remained relatively stable, the upper quartile has shown an upward trend, indicating that the university is attracting a more academically qualified cohort over time. This trend may be reflective of broader changes in higher education, as more students seek to improve their academic profile in a competitive admission landscape.

Overall, the data suggests that Tennessee Wesleyan University is adapting to changes in the admissions landscape, with a gradual shift towards a more diverse applicant pool that increasingly values academic performance alongside standardized testing. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop in the coming years.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

902 applicants in 2025, 68.8% admitted

621 admitted 281 not admitted Yield 30.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's2579 international (3.5%)
Master's11929 international (24.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
76
Business Administration and Management, General
25
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist
18
Psychology, General
17
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
15
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
11
Elementary Education and Teaching
10
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
10
Accounting
9
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
8

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Occupational Therapy/Therapist · Master's32 (0% international)
  • Information Resources Management · Master's28 (86% international)
  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's15 (27% international)
  • Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's6 (0% international)
  • Marketing/Marketing Management, General · Master's6 (0% international)
  • Accounting · Master's6 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from Tennessee Wesleyan University

The graduation data from Tennessee Wesleyan University highlights several interesting trends, particularly in the fields of health care and business. The Registered Nursing program stands out with the highest number of graduates, totaling 59 individuals. This reflects the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, a trend observed nationally as the healthcare sector continues to grow due to an aging population and increased focus on health services.

In the realm of business education, there is a notable presence of graduates across various concentrations, particularly in general business administration and finance. The university produced a total of 7 graduates in finance and 15 in general business at the master's level. This suggests a robust interest in business education, likely driven by the dynamic nature of the economy and the need for skilled professionals in finance and management roles.

Another area of interest is the low representation of international students in several programs. For instance, although there are graduates in business and health-related fields, the number of international students completing degrees in these areas is minimal. This could indicate potential opportunities for the university to attract a more diverse student body, especially in disciplines with high global demand.

Lastly, it is noteworthy that fields such as education and psychology show a balanced distribution of graduates, yet they do not appear to match the numbers seen in nursing or business. As the job market evolves, Tennessee Wesleyan University may want to consider enhancing its offerings and support in these disciplines to align with workforce needs and student interests. Overall, the data presents a clear picture of the university's strengths and areas for potential growth in its academic programs.

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

Health professionshas 149 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Dental Hygiene/Hygienist.$62,473
Health/Health Care Administration/Management.-
Pre-Occupational Therapy Studies.-
Pre-Physical Therapy Studies.-
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other.-
Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling.-
Occupational Therapy/Therapist.$61,124
Nursing Education.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$66,596
Nursing Administration.$66,596
Businesshas 114 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration and Management, General.$38,304-$71,573
Project Management.$38,304-$71,573
Accounting.-
Finance, General.-
Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General.-
Information Resources Management.-
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.-
Digital Marketing.-
Educationhas 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Special Education and Teaching, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$42,728
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.-
Mathematics Teacher Education.-
Biology Teacher Education.-
Chemistry Teacher Education.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 21 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$26,003
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$26,003
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, Other.$26,003
Psychology has 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.-
Developmental and Child Psychology.-
Applied Psychology.-
Biologyhas 10 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Homeland security has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Forensic Science and Technology.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Communication has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sports Communication.-
History has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Social sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sociology, General.-
Public administrationhas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.-
Visual and Performing artshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Visual and Performing Arts, General.-
Philosophy has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Christian Studies.-
Engineeringhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Engineering Science.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-

Students

1,198 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 36:64 · Freshman retention 72.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (918)

White
685 · 74.6%
International
60 · 6.5%
Hispanic
60 · 6.5%
Black
41 · 4.5%
Unknown
35 · 3.8%
Two or more races
25 · 2.7%
Asian
10 · 1.1%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Tennessee Wesleyan University in 2023

The student demographic data from Tennessee Wesleyan University for the year 2023 reveals significant insights into the composition of its undergraduate and graduate populations. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 197 students, with a notable gender distribution showing 42.6% male and 57.4% female. This trend continues into the upperclassmen category, where there are 583 students, with a male ratio of 38.3% and a female ratio of 61.7%.

The data indicates a shift in gender representation as students progress through their academic journeys, with the percentage of males decreasing and females increasing. This suggests that the university may be attracting more female students, which aligns with broader national trends in higher education, where enrollment rates for women have been consistently rising compared to men.

Furthermore, examining the demographic breakdown of the student body reveals that the majority of students identify as white, a common trend in many institutions across the United States. However, there is also a diverse representation of other ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and Black students, which reflects the university's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.

The overall graduate student population is relatively small, comprising 123 individuals, with a notable female majority at 73.2%. This could indicate that advanced degree programs are particularly appealing to female students, perhaps due to various support systems and resources available at the university.

In conclusion, Tennessee Wesleyan University’s student demographics in 2023 demonstrate a healthy gender diversity, particularly among undergraduate students, while also highlighting the ongoing need for broader ethnic representation. As the university continues to evolve, it will be crucial to maintain and enhance these efforts to ensure an inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Tennessee Wesleyan University

The age composition data for students at Tennessee Wesleyan University reveals interesting trends regarding the demographics of the student body. The largest age group represented is the 18-19 category, where undergraduate females significantly outnumber their male counterparts, with 195 females compared to 100 males. This trend continues in the 20-21 age bracket, where there are 238 female undergraduates compared to 133 males, indicating a strong female presence in these younger age groups.

As we analyze the data further, we observe a shift in demographics as age increases. The 22-24 age group shows a considerable number of graduate males (15), although the overall number of graduate students remains relatively low in comparison to undergraduates. Notably, the number of younger students, particularly those under 18, remains minimal, suggesting that Tennessee Wesleyan University may attract a more traditional college-age population.

Moreover, the data indicates a gradual decline in student numbers in older age brackets, particularly among males. The 25-29 age group shows a total of 39 students, diminishing further in the 30-34 age group to only 32. This may reflect broader societal trends where fewer individuals in these age ranges are pursuing higher education, possibly due to career commitments or family responsibilities.

Overall, the data highlights a youthful and predominantly female student body at Tennessee Wesleyan University, reflecting ongoing trends in higher education where female enrollment often surpasses that of males, especially in undergraduate programs. This demographic insight is crucial for the university in terms of resource allocation, program development, and fostering an inclusive academic environment.

International Students

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

Undergraduates6.5%

60 in 2025 · 4.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 4.4%2017: 0.0%2018: 4.2%2019: 6.8%2020: 5.8%2021: 5.5%2022: 6.8%2023: 7.4%2024: 7.4%2025: 6.5%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students37.1%

104 in 2025 · 31.8% in 2016

0% 22.5% 45% 2016: 31.8%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.9%2023: 0.8%2024: 25.8%2025: 37.1%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Tennessee Wesleyan University

The data on international student enrollment at Tennessee Wesleyan University reveals notable trends over the years, particularly among undergraduate students. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students has generally increased, rising from 4.54% in 2004 to 7.43% in 2023. This growth reflects a broader trend seen across many U.S. universities, where institutions are increasingly seeking to diversify their student bodies to enrich the educational experience.

The peak of international undergraduate enrollment occurred in 2019, with a percentage of 6.76%, but it was in 2023 that the percentage reached its highest at 7.43%. This could indicate a recovery and renewed interest in U.S. higher education in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which had significantly disrupted international travel and education.

However, the data on graduate student enrollment is less consistent due to the limited available figures. In 2014, the percentage of international graduate students was recorded at 6.25%, but comprehensive data for subsequent years is scarce. This inconsistency may suggest fluctuations in graduate enrollment, possibly related to varying global circumstances and institutional policies.

Overall, the increase in international students, particularly at the undergraduate level, highlights Tennessee Wesleyan University's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment. As universities navigate the evolving landscape of global education, continued efforts to attract international students will be crucial for maintaining vibrant academic communities.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$40,272

Undergraduate tuition
$30,814
Room and board
$9,458
Graduate tuition
$17,750
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 35% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 29%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$27.4M

Tuition and fees
$14.1M51.6%
Gifts and private grants
$6.9M25.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.4M12.4%
Investment return
$2.0M7.3%
Government grants and contracts
$394K1.4%
Other
$593K2.2%

Expenses$22.5M

Instruction
$8.9M39.4%
Student services
$5.0M22.3%
Institutional support
$4.9M21.9%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.1M13.6%
Academic support
$604K2.7%

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
$52,613peers $65,931
Professor
$57,646peers $77,501
Associate professor
$54,644peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$50,089peers $61,725

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Appalachian Athletic Conference

Appalachian Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Soccer5441
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)5129
Baseball50-
Basketball3015
Lacrosse1921
Tennis1814
Softball-26
Bowling169
Golf1010
Volleyball-18
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Soccer5250
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)4737
Lacrosse2022
Baseball35-
Tennis2015
Basketball1913
Softball-30
Bowling1410
Golf89
Volleyball-17
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6557
Soccer3138
Lacrosse2222
Baseball32-
Basketball1614
Softball-22
Tennis148
Golf89
Volleyball-17
Bowling125

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Tennessee Wesleyan University:

  1. The University of Tennessee-Knoxville: Ranked 105 in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university is a key institution in Tennessee, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. Clemson University: With a ranking of 86, Clemson University is known for its strong emphasis on research and development, especially in engineering and technology fields.

  3. Emory University: Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Emory University is highly regarded with a rank of 24. It offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its strong emphasis on research and community service.

  4. Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus: Ranked 33, Georgia Tech is renowned for its engineering and technology programs and is located in Atlanta, Georgia.

  5. Vanderbilt University: This prestigious university is ranked 18th and is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  6. The University of the South: A liberal arts college with a rank of 51, The University of the South offers a unique educational experience in a picturesque setting.

These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, providing a variety of educational opportunities in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

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

Incidents, 2023–2025

Motor vehicle theft
4
Burglary
2
Liquor 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 Tennessee Wesleyan University

The crime statistics from Tennessee Wesleyan University reveal significant fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students over the years. Notably, the data shows a steep increase in crime rates from 2013 to 2017, peaking at 17.74 in 2017. This surge may be attributed to various factors, including enhanced reporting mechanisms or increases in certain types of offenses on campus, such as drug-related arrests and alcohol violations.

Interestingly, the years following this peak demonstrate a downward trend, particularly in 2019, when the crime rate dropped to 2.18 per 1,000 students. This decline could suggest effective measures taken by the university to improve campus safety, such as enhanced security protocols and educational programs addressing substance abuse. However, the spike in 2020, with a rate of 7.01, indicates that challenges remain, potentially exacerbated by the social turmoil associated with the pandemic.

The data also highlights the absence of violent crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery, which suggests a relatively safe environment for students. However, the presence of domestic violence, assault, and stalking incidents should not be overlooked, necessitating continued awareness and preventative strategies.

Overall, while the university has seen fluctuations in crime rates, the overall trend in recent years indicates an encouraging move towards a safer campus. Continuous efforts in crime prevention and community engagement will be crucial in maintaining and improving these statistics. For further understanding of how to calculate crime rates, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Tennessee Wesleyan University include Evelyn Bryan Johnson (Aviator, world's oldest flight instructor), James Alexander Fowler (Lawyer and former Assistant Attorney General) and Tayler Saucedo (MLB pitcher).

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.