Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU) is a private liberal arts college located in Delaware, Ohio, United States. Founded in 1842 by Methodist leaders and Central Ohio residents, the university has grown to become a prominent educational institution in the region. Though its roots are in the Methodist tradition, OWU is a non-sectarian institution open to students of all faiths and backgrounds.
Here are some key facts about Ohio Wesleyan University:
1. Campus: The campus spans across 200 acres and features over 60 buildings, including academic facilities, residential halls, and athletic complexes. The university's architecture is a blend of historic and modern styles, with some buildings dating back to the 19th century.
2. Academics: Ohio Wesleyan University offers over 90 majors, minors, and concentrations within three primary divisions: the humanities, the natural sciences, and the social sciences. The university has a strong focus on undergraduate research and experiential learning, providing opportunities for students to engage in projects, internships, and study abroad programs.
3. Enrollment: OWU has a student body of approximately 1,500 students representing diverse backgrounds and nationalities. The university is committed to maintaining a low student-to-faculty ratio, which currently stands at 10:1, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship for students.
4. Faculty: Ohio Wesleyan has a dedicated and accomplished faculty, with over 90% holding the highest degrees in their respective fields. Faculty members are engaged in research, creative work, and active participation in professional organizations, which contributes to a vibrant intellectual environment on campus.
5. Athletics: OWU is a member of the NCAA Division III and the North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC). The university's sports teams are known as the Battling Bishops, and they compete in 24 intercollegiate sports, including football, soccer, basketball, and track and field.
6. Financial Aid: Ohio Wesleyan is committed to making education accessible and affordable for students. The university offers various forms of financial assistance, such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs, to help students and their families cover the cost of attendance.
7. Notable Alumni: Over the years, Ohio Wesleyan has produced numerous distinguished alumni, including successful entrepreneurs, politicians, scientists, and artists. Some notable OWU alumni include U.S. Vice President Charles W. Fairbanks, Nobel Prize-winning chemist Frank Sherwood Rowland, and bestselling author and political commentator Rula Jebreal.
8. The OWU Connection: The university's signature program, The OWU Connection, is designed to help students make connections between academic theory and real-world practice. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning, undergraduate research, and global experiences, preparing students for successful careers and engaged citizenship.
9. Community engagement: Ohio Wesleyan has a strong tradition of community engagement and service learning. Through partnerships with local, national, and international organizations, students have opportunities to participate in service projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities that contribute to their personal and professional growth.
10. Rankings: OWU consistently ranks well in national college and university rankings, such as those produced by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and The Princeton Review. The university is often recognized for its academic excellence, commitment to undergraduate research, and overall value.
