Wayland Baptist University
Acceptance rate
56.0%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$23,782
$33,436 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
2,087
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
8.9%
4-year; 6-year rate 18.8%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Wayland Baptist University (WBU) is a private Christian university located in Plainview, Texas. Established in 1908, the university has a rich history and a strong commitment to providing quality education grounded in Christian values. One of the key features of WBU is its dedication to serving non-traditional students through flexible scheduling and a variety of degree programs that cater to working adults. The university offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate degree options across various fields, including business, education, and the liberal arts, allowing students to find their niche and pursue their passions.
The campus culture at Wayland Baptist University is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a sense of community among its diverse student body. The university's motto, "The Truth Shall Set You Free," reflects its commitment to academic integrity and personal growth. Students are encouraged to engage in numerous extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and community service initiatives, promoting a well-rounded educational experience. WBU's athletics program is particularly noteworthy, with the university competing in the NAIA and offering a range of sports for both men and women. Graduates from Wayland are well-prepared for their careers, with many finding successful employment in various industries, thanks to the strong emphasis on practical skills and ethical leadership instilled during their studies. Overall, Wayland Baptist University stands out for its nurturing environment, academic excellence, and commitment to developing future leaders rooted in faith and integrity.
Trends in Tuition, Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
Wayland Baptist University has shown significant changes in tuition and enrollment over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. From 2014 to 2024, undergraduate tuition for in-state and out-of-state students has consistently risen, reaching $23,186 by 2024. This increase, nearly a 85% jump from 2014, places financial strain on students and their families, prompting many to reconsider the value of a degree in light of escalating costs.
In tandem with rising tuition, student enrollment has sharply declined. The undergraduate population fell from 4,515 in 2014 to just 2,275 in 2023. This trend is concerning as it may indicate a lack of interest in or access to higher education, potentially exacerbated by the rising costs associated with attending university. Additionally, this decline could affect the university's financial stability and resources available for remaining students.
Moreover, graduation rates have also been disheartening. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates dropped to a mere 14.2% in 2023, down from 27.8% in 2013. This suggests that students may be struggling to complete their degrees within the traditional timeframe, possibly due to financial burdens, academic challenges, or other external factors.
The retention rate has also experienced fluctuations, reaching a low of 37.6% in 2021 and showing slight recovery to 38.5% in 2023. Low retention rates can further compound enrollment issues, as students may leave before completing their studies.
In conclusion, the interplay of increasing tuition, declining enrollment, and low graduation rates at Wayland Baptist University reflects significant challenges that align with ongoing discussions in the education sector about affordability and access. These trends warrant attention from both university administration and policymakers to ensure that students can successfully pursue their educational goals without disproportionate financial burden.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Oklahoma City, about 250 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ), about 280 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Southern Baptist
- President
- Dr. Donna Rice Hedgepath (President)
- Phone
- 8062911000
- Address
- 1900 W. 7th Street, Plainview, TX 79072
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 98.0%, women 96.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Wayland Baptist University
The admission statistics from Wayland Baptist University reflect a notable trend over the years, particularly in the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. From 2009 to 2020, the male acceptance rate consistently hovered around 98% to 99%, while the female acceptance rate remained similarly high, often reaching 100%. This indicates a strong commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity for both genders during this period.
However, the data reveals a significant shift starting in 2021, where both rates dropped considerably, with the male acceptance rate plummeting to approximately 81.9% and the female rate to about 80.8%. This decline in acceptance rates correlates with a dramatic increase in the number of applicants denied admission, suggesting a change in institutional policies or an influx of applications that outpaced the university’s capacity.
The enrollment numbers also reflect this shift, peaking at 381 in 2013 and then gradually declining, particularly in the years following 2020. The number of students deferring their admission has also increased, reaching a high of 652 in 2023. This raises questions about the university's ability to accommodate the growing number of applicants and the potential impact of external factors, such as economic conditions or changes in higher education funding.
Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of admissions at Wayland Baptist University, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies to manage increasing applicant pools while maintaining equitable access to education for all students.
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 Wayland Baptist University
The admission data from Wayland Baptist University over the years presents an intriguing landscape of academic performance and trends. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, reaching a peak of 53% in 2019 and 2020. This significant participation indicates an increasing reliance on standardized testing for college admissions, which may reflect broader national trends where institutions emphasize measurable academic performance.
While the number of SAT submissions has varied from year to year, the corresponding score ranges reveal some notable insights. For instance, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores have shown a slight decrease over time, dropping from 410 in 2007 to 375 in 2016, before stabilizing around 450 in the subsequent years. This trend may suggest a shift in the applicant pool or changes in the university's admissions criteria. Conversely, the upper quartile scores have generally remained stable, suggesting that while more students are applying, the academic caliber of the top candidates has remained consistent.
The ACT scores also reflect a similar pattern, with the 25th percentile scores fluctuating but generally indicating that the base level of competency among admitted students is being maintained. The consistent range of scores may suggest that the university is successfully attracting a diverse range of applicants while also upholding academic standards.
In light of national conversations about the relevance and fairness of standardized testing, Wayland Baptist University seems to be navigating these challenges while maintaining a steady admission profile. The data indicates a balanced approach to evaluating prospective students, ensuring that both academic achievement and test performance are considered in the admissions process. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Wayland Baptist University adapts its policies and practices in response to these shifts.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
1,939 applicants in 2025, 56.0% admitted
1,085 admitted 854 not admitted Yield 32.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's90 (4% international)
- Christian Studies · Master's24 (0% international)
- Curriculum and Instruction · Master's23 (0% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Master's20 (5% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Doctoral17 (0% international)
- Public Administration · Master's17 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Wayland Baptist University
The graduation data from Wayland Baptist University reveals some intriguing insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various disciplines in 2023. Particularly noteworthy is the dominance of the Liberal Arts and Sciences program, which accounted for 92 bachelor's degrees. This suggests a strong interest in general studies, potentially reflecting broader societal trends toward interdisciplinary education and critical thinking skills that are essential in today's job market.
Moreover, the absence of international students graduating from several programs, including Clinical Psychology and various Education-related fields, highlights a significant gap in diversity within these disciplines. While some programs, such as Psychology, awarded 36 master's degrees, there were no international students, indicating a potential barrier or lack of appeal for non-domestic students in these areas.
Another interesting observation is the limited number of associate degrees conferred, with only 43 in Liberal Arts and a mere 1 in Philosophy. This could suggest a preference for higher-level degrees among students, or perhaps a limited offering of associate programs at the university level, which can impact access for students looking for shorter, more focused educational pathways.
Overall, the data presents an opportunity for Wayland Baptist University to enhance its appeal to international students and consider expanding its associate degree offerings to meet the diverse needs of a broader student population. As educational institutions continue to adapt to changing labor market demands, understanding these trends will be crucial for future curriculum development and recruitment strategies.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $51,557-$61,372 | ||||
| Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain Management. | $51,557-$61,372 | ||||
| Project Management. | $51,557-$61,372 | ||||
| Organizational Leadership. | $51,557-$61,372 | ||||
| Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General. | - | ||||
| Business Statistics. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $47,634 | ||||
| Cybersecurity Defense Strategy/Policy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Services, General. | $37,325 | ||||
| Community Organization and Advocacy. | - | ||||
| Public Administration. | $53,870 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | $46,198-$52,052 | ||||
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other. | $46,198-$52,052 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $66,843 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christian Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | ||||
| Clinical Psychology. | $38,435 | ||||
| Counseling Psychology. | $38,435 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General. | - | ||||
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intelligence, General. | - | ||||
| Intelligence, Command Control and Information Operations, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Molecular Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Government and Politics (United States). | - | ||||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behavioral Sciences. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | ||||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food Science. | - |
Students
2,809 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 50:50 · Freshman retention 44.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,419
- First-year undergraduates 316
- Graduate students 722
- Transfers and others 352
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,087)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Wayland Baptist University in 2023
In 2023, Wayland Baptist University showcases a diverse student population across different classifications. The largest group consists of undergraduate freshmen, totaling 262 students, with a notable male representation of 68.7%. This indicates a substantial male enrollment trend among new students, reflecting broader patterns in higher education where males often comprise a significant portion of incoming classes.
Undergraduate juniors follow with 1,637 students, displaying a more balanced gender ratio, where males account for 45.7% and females for 54.3%. This shift in gender representation among upperclassmen may suggest a growing appeal of college education among female students, aligning with national trends that see women increasingly pursuing higher education.
Undergraduate transfer students number 239, with a majority of female students at 58.6%. This demographic trend may indicate that female students are seeking better opportunities or environments that cater to their educational needs. Similarly, graduate students total 703, with females again outnumbering males at a ratio of 57.5%. The higher female representation in graduate programs is consistent with national statistics, where women tend to pursue advanced degrees at higher rates than men.
The representation of diverse races among students is also noteworthy. While specific data is not available for this year's breakdown, the historical trends show a gradual increase in enrollment among minority groups, contributing to a richer cultural campus climate. Overall, the data suggests that Wayland Baptist University is fostering an inclusive environment, reflecting the changing dynamics of the student population in the broader context of U.S. higher education.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Wayland Baptist University
The age composition of students at Wayland Baptist University reveals a diverse demographic, particularly among the undergraduate and graduate populations. The data indicates a significant concentration of students in the 18-19 age range, with 214 male undergraduates and 114 female undergraduates, representing approximately 29.2% of the total male student body and 15.1% of the total female student body respectively. This aligns with trends seen in many universities, where younger students often dominate enrollment numbers, likely due to the influx of recent high school graduates.
As the age increases, particularly in the 25-29 and 30-34 categories, we observe a notable rise in female students, with 155 and 179 respectively. This suggests that returning adult learners, especially women, are increasingly pursuing higher education. The presence of graduate students in these age groups reinforces the notion that education is becoming a lifelong endeavor, as more individuals seek to enhance their qualifications and career prospects.
Interestingly, the data also highlights a balanced gender representation among older age groups, with the 40-49 range showing 247 males and 331 females. This could reflect evolving societal norms regarding education and career advancement for women, as they increasingly occupy roles in higher education.
The small number of students over 65 indicates that while there is growing recognition of the importance of education for all ages, traditional university environments may still be primarily attractive to younger adults. Overall, the diverse age distribution at Wayland Baptist University showcases its commitment to inclusivity and the promotion of lifelong learning, relevant in today's rapidly changing job market.
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.
58 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016
106 in 2025 · 0.4% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Wayland Baptist University
The data on international student enrollment at Wayland Baptist University reveals significant trends over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has gradually increased from 0.29% in 2004 to an impressive 2.46% in 2023. This upward trend suggests that the university is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for students from other countries, which can contribute to a more diverse campus environment.
In contrast, the proportion of international graduate students has also shown variability, peaking in 2022 and 2023 at 1.59% and 2.42%, respectively. This indicates that while the total number of graduate students has decreased, the representation of international students has notably improved, suggesting a potential shift in the university's appeal to graduate-level candidates.
The overall decline in total student numbers from 2004 to 2023 raises questions about the university's recruitment strategies and market positioning. The increase in the percentage of international students highlights a successful effort to attract a global student population, even amidst a shrinking total enrollment.
This trend aligns with broader higher education patterns where many institutions are seeking to diversify their student bodies to enhance global perspectives and provide richer educational experiences. As universities continue to navigate the challenges posed by global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and changing immigration policies, maintaining this upward trajectory in international enrollment will be critical for sustaining academic diversity and institutional growth at Wayland Baptist University.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$33,436
- Undergraduate tuition
- $23,782
- Room and board
- $9,654
- Graduate tuition
- $16,580
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 74% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 62%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$54.3M
Expenses$51.1M
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 · Other · Sooner Athletic Conference
Sooner Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 142 | - |
| Baseball | 108 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 82 | 25 |
| Basketball | 63 | 31 |
| Soccer | 48 | 32 |
| Wrestling | 33 | 34 |
| Softball | - | 37 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Beach Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Golf | 6 | 3 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 131 | - |
| Baseball | 106 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 88 | 13 |
| Basketball | 56 | 24 |
| Soccer | 43 | 29 |
| Wrestling | 30 | 25 |
| Softball | - | 34 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 8 | 8 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 122 | - |
| Baseball | 108 | - |
| Soccer | 51 | 24 |
| Basketball | 44 | 20 |
| Wrestling | 22 | 15 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 24 | 7 |
| Golf | 9 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Softball | - | 13 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Texas Tech UniversityLubbock · 42.6 mi
U.S. News #186
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman CampusNorman · 253.5 mi
U.S. News #116
-
Texas Christian UniversityFort Worth · 271.6 mi
U.S. News #90
-
University of North TexasDenton · 271.8 mi
U.S. News #208
-
University of Texas-ArlingtonArlington · 284.5 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of New Mexico-Main CampusAlbuquerque · 284.8 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Oklahoma State University-Main CampusStillwater · 295.2 mi
U.S. News #191
-
The University of Texas at DallasRichardson · 298.4 mi
U.S. News #121
-
Southern Methodist UniversityDallas · 299.7 mi
U.S. News #85
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Wayland Baptist University:
-
Texas Tech University - Ranked 216, Texas Tech University is a comprehensive university located in Lubbock, Texas, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus - With a rank of 124, this comprehensive university in Norman, Oklahoma, is known for its strong research programs and vibrant campus community.
-
Texas Christian University - Ranked 98, this private university in Fort Worth, Texas, offers a diverse range of programs and is recognized for its commitment to student success.
-
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus - With a rank of 185, this comprehensive university in Stillwater, Oklahoma, is known for its agriculture, engineering, and business programs.
-
The University of Texas at Austin - Ranked 32, this prestigious university in Austin, Texas, is recognized for its strong academic programs and vibrant student life.
-
Southern Methodist University - With a rank of 89, this private university in Dallas, Texas, is noted for its strong business and law programs.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
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
Analysis of Crime Rates at Wayland Baptist University
The crime data from Wayland Baptist University reveals a fluctuating trend in criminal incidents over the past decade. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students was relatively low in 2013, with a rate of 1.46, but it has seen a notable increase in subsequent years. The peak occurred in 2018, with a rate of 4.83, which indicates a significant rise in reported incidents during that period. This spike could correlate with broader societal issues, such as the increasing prevalence of substance abuse and violent crimes, which have been observed nationwide.
In more recent years, there has been a slight decline in the overall crime rate, with 2023 reporting an average of 2.55 per 1,000 students. This decline may suggest effective crime prevention strategies being implemented by the university or a shift in student behavior. However, the data still shows concerning numbers, particularly in categories like domestic violence and drug-related arrests, which require continuous attention and intervention.
The university must prioritize maintaining safety and security on campus by fostering a culture of awareness and support. This could involve enhancing educational programs about the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse, as well as providing resources for victims of domestic violence. Overall, while there are fluctuations in the data, the ongoing commitment to crime reduction is essential for ensuring a safe environment for students and staff alike.
For further details on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Wayland Baptist University include Tamyra Mensah-Stock (Tokyo Olympics freestyle wrestling gold medalist), Devon Morris (Jamaican sprinter and world indoor 400m champion) and Barry Loudermilk (U.S. Representative from Georgia).
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Tamyra Mensah-Stock 1992–
Tokyo Olympics freestyle wrestling gold medalist
-
Devon Morris 1961–
Jamaican sprinter and world indoor 400m champion
-
Barry Loudermilk 1963–
U.S. Representative from Georgia
-
Lometa Odom 1933–2017
Women's basketball player and coach
-
Grady Nutt 1934–1982
Southern Baptist minister, humorist and television personality
-
Benjamin Akande 1962–
Nigerian-American economist and business leader
-
Marshall Nelson 1994–
Australian professional basketball player
-
Betty J. Ligon 1921–2015
Journalist, entertainment editor at El Paso Herald-Post
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.