West Virginia Wesleyan College
Acceptance rate
93.3%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$34,090
$47,078 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
971
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
46.5%
4-year; 6-year rate 53.5%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
West Virginia Wesleyan College, located in Buckhannon, West Virginia, is known for its commitment to liberal arts education and a strong emphasis on the holistic development of its students. Established in 1890, the college has built a rich tradition of academic excellence and community engagement. One of its defining characteristics is the nurturing, close-knit environment that promotes personal growth and academic success. The college's motto, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me," reflects its Wesleyan heritage and underlines the institution's focus on fostering ethical leadership and social responsibility among its students.
The college boasts a diverse range of academic programs, with strong offerings in fields such as business, education, and the arts. Its small class sizes allow for personalized attention from faculty, who are dedicated to mentoring students and encouraging critical thinking. In addition to academics, West Virginia Wesleyan College emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities, providing numerous opportunities for students to engage in sports, arts, and community service. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, a comprehensive library, and athletic venues that support a vibrant campus life. With a focus on developing well-rounded individuals, West Virginia Wesleyan College prepares its graduates to excel in their careers and make meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Metrics at West Virginia Wesleyan College
West Virginia Wesleyan College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several important metrics over the years. One significant area of concern is tuition costs. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students has risen from $26,794 to $33,494, marking an increase of approximately 25%. This trend reflects a broader national issue where rising tuition often outpaces inflation, making higher education less accessible for many families.
Another crucial metric is student enrollment. The total number of undergraduate students has declined sharply from 1,367 in 2014 to just 889 by 2023, a decrease of over 35%. Such a drop may be indicative of the institution's challenges in attracting new students amidst increasing competition and changing demographics in higher education. This decline could lead to reduced revenue, further exacerbating the issue of rising tuition.
Retention rates also deserve attention, with a slight decline observed as well. The retention rate for undergraduate students peaked at around 75.8% in 2020 but fell to approximately 66.9% in 2023. This drop is concerning, as high retention rates are typically associated with student satisfaction and institutional stability. A decline in retention can signal underlying issues, such as academic challenges or inadequate support services.
Lastly, the graduation rates have shown some fluctuation but generally reflect a worrying trend. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates was approximately 46.7% in 2023, which, while an improvement from previous years, still indicates that nearly half of the students are not completing their degrees in the expected time frame. This could have long-term implications for students' financial and career prospects.
In summary, while West Virginia Wesleyan College has made strides in some areas, the substantial rise in tuition, declining enrollment, falling retention rates, and fluctuating graduation rates highlight significant challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the institution’s future viability and student success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Remote town
- Nearest major city
- Pittsburgh, about 100 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), about 100 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Dr. James Moore (President)
- Phone
- 3044738000
- City
- Buckhannon, West Virginia
- Address
- 59 College Ave, Buckhannon, WV 26201-2994
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 61.4%, women 66.4%.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions at West Virginia Wesleyan College
The admission data for West Virginia Wesleyan College over the years reveals notable trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting with the male acceptance rate, there has been a significant fluctuation, peaking at approximately 96% in 2023, which indicates a highly selective environment. Conversely, the female acceptance rate has also shown a similar trend, reaching around 97% in the same year. This suggests that the college has increasingly become more accommodating over time, especially for female applicants.
Enrollment numbers have varied, with a noticeable peak in 2014 when 471 students were admitted. However, the total number of students denied admission also highlights the competitive nature of the process, with the highest number of denials occurring in 2018, totaling 667. This indicates a strong interest in the institution, reflecting broader trends in higher education where many colleges are experiencing increased applications yet must manage limited spots.
The data also reveals that the number of students deferring their admission has been consistently high, particularly in 2012 and 2014, with over 900 deferrals recorded. This could be indicative of students' changing priorities or apprehensions regarding starting college, especially in light of the global pandemic's impact on education around 2020.
Overall, West Virginia Wesleyan College showcases a dynamic admissions landscape, with increasing female representation and a growing acceptance rate that reflects changing societal trends and the institution’s evolving strategies in a competitive educational environment.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 41% submitted SAT, 16% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trend Analysis of Admission Test Scores at West Virginia Wesleyan College
Over the years, the admission test score trends at West Virginia Wesleyan College reveal significant fluctuations, particularly in SAT performance. The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores peaked dramatically in 2020 and 2021, with 77% and 83%, respectively. This surge may reflect a growing awareness of the importance of standardized testing in college admissions.
However, the scores themselves show a downward trajectory. The 25th percentile for the SAT Reading score dropped from 460 in 2007 to 470 in 2023, while the 75th percentile also saw a decline from 580 to 590 in the same period. This indicates that, although fewer students are submitting scores, the quality of scores among those who do submit appears relatively stable.
Moreover, the percentage of students submitting scores decreased significantly in 2018 and 2022, at 35% and 33%, respectively. This could be indicative of a broader trend in higher education, where institutions have started to adopt test-optional policies, allowing students to choose whether to submit standardized test scores.
Ultimately, while the college may be seeing a diverse applicant pool, the ongoing changes in submission rates and score quality could pose challenges for future admissions strategies. Colleges must adapt to these shifts, ensuring that they maintain rigorous standards while also catering to the evolving landscape of higher education admissions.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
1,397 applicants in 2025, 93.3% admitted
1,304 admitted 93 not admitted Yield 22.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's16 (13% international)
- Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's12 (0% international)
- Athletic Training/Trainer · Master's6 (17% international)
- Creative Writing · Master's2 (0% international)
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing · Master's2 (0% international)
- Nursing Administration · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at West Virginia Wesleyan College
The graduation data from West Virginia Wesleyan College for 2023 illustrates some intriguing patterns across various disciplines. Notably, the Business program stands out with 14 master’s degree graduates, indicating a strong demand for advanced education in this field. This aligns with national trends where business administration remains one of the top choices for graduate students, reflecting the ongoing growth in the corporate sector.
In contrast, several programs such as Biology and Criminal Justice produced a modest number of graduates, with 16 and 15 bachelor’s degrees awarded respectively. The absence of international students in these programs suggests a potential area for growth, as institutions increasingly strive to attract a diverse student body.
The data also reveals a complete lack of graduates in various fields such as Sociology and Cultural Studies. This may indicate a misalignment between student interests and institutional offerings, calling for a reassessment of these programs to enhance their appeal and relevance.
Furthermore, examining the international student component, only the Business and Exercise Science programs attracted international students, albeit in small numbers. This could reflect broader patterns in higher education where international students gravitate towards programs with clear career pathways, particularly in business-related fields.
Overall, the data presents a landscape of opportunity for West Virginia Wesleyan College. By leveraging strengths in business education while addressing gaps in other disciplines, the institution can enhance its educational offerings and attract a more diverse student population moving forward.
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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | |||
| Accounting. | - | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | |||
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $74,268-$118,477 | |||
| Nursing Administration. | $74,268-$118,477 | |||
| Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing. | $74,268-$118,477 | |||
| Nursing Practice. | $74,268-$118,477 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, Other. | - | |||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | $39,698 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | - | |||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | |||
| Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General. | - | |||
| Musical Theatre. | - | |||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | |||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Education, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - | |||
| Organizational Communication, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies, Other. | - |
Students
1,055 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 49:51 · Freshman retention 67.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 603
- First-year undergraduates 294
- Graduate students 84
- Transfers and others 74
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (971)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at West Virginia Wesleyan College in 2023
In 2023, West Virginia Wesleyan College showcases a diverse student body across various categories of enrollment. The undergraduate freshmen consist of 275 students, with a nearly balanced gender ratio where 48.4% are male and 51.6% are female. This slight female majority is indicative of broader trends in higher education, where female enrollment has often outpaced male enrollment in recent years.
For the undergraduate upperclassmen, the college has a total of 600 students, maintaining a similar gender distribution with 48% male and 52% female. This consistency in gender ratios among undergraduates reflects the institution's supportive environment for both genders.
Interestingly, the transfer students represent a small group of just 11 individuals, with a higher proportion of males at 63.6%. This might suggest that transfer students in this demographic are predominantly male, a trend that could be explored further by the college to understand the factors influencing such a decision.
At the graduate level, 62 students are enrolled, with a significant 66.1% being female. This trend is reflective of a national rise in female participation in graduate programs, potentially influenced by the increasing number of women pursuing advanced degrees across various fields.
Overall, the data illustrates West Virginia Wesleyan College as a welcoming institution for students of different backgrounds and genders, with an increasing representation of females, particularly in graduate studies. As education continues to evolve, monitoring these demographic shifts will be essential for the college to meet the needs of its diverse student population effectively.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at West Virginia Wesleyan College
The age composition of students at West Virginia Wesleyan College in 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the demographics of the student body. The data indicates a predominant enrollment of younger students, particularly in the 18-19 age bracket, which consists of 222 male undergraduates and 233 female undergraduates. This suggests that the college is attracting a significant number of traditional-aged students, which is a trend seen across many institutions in the United States.
As we move to the 20-21 age group, the numbers remain strong, with 146 male undergraduates and 186 female undergraduates. However, a noticeable decline occurs in the 22-24 age range, where there is a split between undergraduate and graduate students. This could reflect a common pattern where students either graduate or transition into the workforce, leading to fewer students in this age group.
Interestingly, the data reveals a stark decrease in student numbers from the 25-29 age group onwards, with only a handful of students represented in the 30-34, 35-39, and 40-49 age ranges. The presence of older students, particularly in graduate programs, is minimal, which may suggest that the college is not as appealing to non-traditional students, or that older individuals are opting for alternative educational paths.
Overall, the age distribution reflects a youthful and primarily undergraduate population, which may influence the campus culture and the types of programs that the college prioritizes. Understanding these demographics can be crucial for the administration to tailor services and support systems that cater to their main student body effectively.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
86 in 2025 · 5.5% in 2016
4 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Trends at West Virginia Wesleyan College
The data presents a fascinating overview of the international student population at West Virginia Wesleyan College over nearly two decades. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduates has experienced an overall upward trend, rising from approximately 2.97% in 2004 to 5.51% in 2023. This increase suggests a growing interest and commitment to fostering a diverse academic environment, which is crucial for enriching the educational experience of all students.
In contrast, the graduate student population has shown more fluctuation. The percentage of international graduate students peaked at about 13.33% in 2010, but has since declined to 6.45% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, or the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly affected international travel and education.
The fluctuations in graduate enrollment highlight a potential area for the college to investigate further. As many institutions seek to attract more graduate international students, understanding the barriers and motivations behind their choices could be essential for developing effective recruitment strategies.
Overall, while the increase in undergraduate international students is a positive sign for West Virginia Wesleyan College, the decline in graduate student percentages raises questions that warrant attention. Maintaining and enhancing the appeal of graduate programs for international students may require innovative approaches and a focus on creating a welcoming and supportive environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$47,078
- Undergraduate tuition
- $34,090
- Room and board
- $12,988
- Graduate tuition
- $11,016
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 18% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 61%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$39.7M
Expenses$29.5M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Mountain East Conference
Mountain East Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 90 | 85 |
| Football | 127 | - |
| Soccer | 52 | 33 |
| Basketball | 24 | 25 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Softball | - | 33 |
| Volleyball | - | 33 |
| Tennis | 14 | 12 |
| Lacrosse | - | 19 |
| Golf | 10 | 7 |
| Swimming | 6 | 9 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 94 | 60 |
| Football | 107 | - |
| Soccer | 48 | 37 |
| Basketball | 30 | 23 |
| Baseball | 48 | - |
| Softball | - | 38 |
| Volleyball | - | 26 |
| Tennis | 12 | 10 |
| Lacrosse | - | 19 |
| Golf | 10 | 4 |
| Swimming | 6 | 7 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 84 | 57 |
| Football | 110 | - |
| Soccer | 46 | 42 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Softball | - | 44 |
| Basketball | 23 | 19 |
| Swimming | 8 | 13 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Lacrosse | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 13 | 4 |
| Other Sports | - | 12 |
| Golf | 9 | 2 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown · 46.7 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 81.5 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
James Madison UniversityHarrisonburg · 82.2 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Washington and Lee UniversityLexington · 93.1 mi
Liberal Arts #12
-
Virginia Military InstituteLexington · 93.2 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh · 100.6 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh · 101.4 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh · 101.5 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Chatham UniversityPittsburgh · 101.9 mi
U.S. News #236
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near West Virginia Wesleyan College:
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West Virginia University - Ranked 216th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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James Madison University - With a rank of 124, this comprehensive university is known for its strong emphasis on student engagement and hands-on learning.
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Washington & Jefferson College - This liberal arts college is ranked 89th and prides itself on providing a personalized educational experience.
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Carnegie Mellon University - One of the top-ranked comprehensive universities at 24th, known for its cutting-edge programs in technology and the arts.
-
Virginia Military Institute - Ranked 63rd, this unique institution combines a rigorous academic curriculum with military training.
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - This university is ranked 67th and offers a diverse array of programs and research opportunities.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - A large comprehensive university ranked 43rd, known for its extensive research facilities and vibrant campus life.
These institutions provide various educational opportunities, ranging from liberal arts to specialized programs, catering to a wide array of student interests.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges 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 Data at West Virginia Wesleyan College
The crime data from West Virginia Wesleyan College reveals a significant fluctuation in crime rates from 2013 to 2023. The average rate of incidents per 1,000 students peaked in 2015 at 24.09, indicating a concerning trend that year. However, a notable decline in crime rates can be observed from 2021 onwards, with the rate dropping to just 3.38 in 2021 and only slightly increasing to 7.57 by 2023. This sharp decrease in reported incidents may reflect improved safety measures, increased awareness, or changes in student behavior.
Specific types of crimes, such as gun arrests and drug-related incidents, saw varying occurrences over the years, with some years reporting no incidents at all. For instance, in 2021 and 2022, there were no gun arrests, suggesting a possible decrease in gun-related violence or effective preventive strategies on campus.
Moreover, the overall trend suggests that the college has experienced a substantial improvement in campus safety in recent years. This aligns with broader national trends in crime reduction in educational institutions, where colleges and universities are increasingly investing in security and support systems to create safer environments for students.
It is important, however, to remain vigilant and continue monitoring these trends, as crime can fluctuate due to various factors, including changes in campus populations and societal conditions. Regular assessments and proactive measures are essential to maintain and further improve safety on campus. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of West Virginia Wesleyan College include Ted Cassidy (Actor who played Lurch on The Addams Family), Blanche Lazzell (Painter and printmaker known for white-line woodcuts) and Lewis C. Cantley (Biochemist who studied PI3-kinase and cancer metabolism).
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Ted Cassidy 1932–1979
Actor who played Lurch on The Addams Family
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Blanche Lazzell 1878–1956
Painter and printmaker known for white-line woodcuts
-
Lewis C. Cantley 1949–
Biochemist who studied PI3-kinase and cancer metabolism
-
Jim Brogan 1958–
Retired basketball player
-
Pare Lorentz 1905–1992
Filmmaker known for New Deal documentaries
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Okey L. Patteson 1898–1989
23rd governor of West Virginia
-
Cliff Battles 1910–1981
Pro Football Hall of Fame tailback
-
Greasy Neale 1891–1973
American football and baseball player and coach
-
Len Barnum 1912–1988
NFL quarterback for the Giants and Eagles
See all 24 notable alumni of West Virginia Wesleyan College →
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.