Overview
Founded in 1831 in Middletown, Connecticut, Wesleyan University is one of the original 'Little Three' liberal arts colleges alongside Amherst and Williams. It evolved from a Methodist-affiliated college into a nonsectarian, highly selective research-oriented liberal arts university, distinguished by its unusual scale of graduate programs and scholarly output relative to its size. Wesleyan is renowned for its rigorous academics, its film studies program (alma mater to many prominent filmmakers), and its history of producing writers, artists, and public intellectuals.
At a Glance
| Type | Liberal Arts |
| Location | Middletown, Connecticut |
| Founded | 1831 |
| Total students | 3,300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 13% |
| Graduation rate | 93% |
| Average starting salary | $65,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $65,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $65,000 |
| Room & board | $17,500 |
| Average financial aid | $56,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 45% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1420-1520 |
| ACT range | 32-34 |
| Average GPA | 4.10 |
| Regular deadline | January 1 |
Top Programs
- Film Studies
- Government
- Biology
- College of Social Studies
- Music
- Psychology
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.