Texas Wesleyan University
Fort Worth, TX 76105-1536 — Private Nonprofit
Value Score: 65/100 | ROI Score: -66 | Affordability Score: 55/100
Tuition (In-State): $39,582 | Out-of-State: $39,582
Acceptance Rate: 69.2% | Graduation Rate: 31.9% | Retention Rate: 60.8%
Median Earnings (10yr): $54,053 | Median Debt: $23,125
SAT Average: 1070 | ACT Midpoint: 19
Student Body Size: 1,741 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 44.7% | Federal Loan Rate: 37.7%
Average Faculty Salary: $8,367/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Texas Wesleyan University is $39,582 per year, which is near the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $39,582/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $158,328 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income
The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Texas Wesleyan University:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $21,812/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $22,876/year
- Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $25,687/year
- Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $27,699/year
- Families earning $110,000+: $31,090/year
Low-income families receive an average discount of $17,770/year, paying just 55% of the sticker price.
Admissions Snapshot
Texas Wesleyan University has an acceptance rate of 69.2%, placing it in the Moderately Selective (50–70%) category. This means roughly 629 students apply each year.
The average SAT score of admitted students is 1070, near the national average. This is within the mid-range nationally.
The ACT midpoint is 19, 10% below the national average.
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
31.9% of students at Texas Wesleyan University complete their degree, 48% below the national average. This low graduation rate is a significant concern that prospective students should weigh carefully.
First-year retention rate: 60.8% (25% below the national average). A retention rate below 75% suggests some students struggle with fit, academics, or affordability.
Graduates of Texas Wesleyan University earn a median salary of $54,053 ten years after enrollment, 32% above the national average. This represents a $19,053/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $571,590 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.
The median student debt at graduation is $23,125, 8% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $251/month, with a total repayment of $30,120 (including $6,995 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.43x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Texas Wesleyan University pays for itself in approximately 9 years. This is a reasonable investment timeline.
Financial Aid Profile
44.7% of students at Texas Wesleyan University receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 35% above the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.
37.7% of students take federal loans, 20% below the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.
Average faculty salary: $8,367/month, 4% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Texas Wesleyan University enrolls 1,741 undergraduate students. This mid-sized institution offers a balance between personalized attention and diverse academic offerings.
Diversity Index: 75/100 (higher = more diverse). Texas Wesleyan University has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.
Student body composition: White 28%, Hispanic 35%, Black 22%, Asian 2%.
Texas Wesleyan University: Diverse Student Body with High Tuition and Low Graduation Rate
- Texas Wesleyan University: A Fort Worth Investment with a Long-Term Payoff?
- Beyond the Classroom: Unpacking Career Outcomes at Texas Wesleyan University
- Discover Your Path: The Texas Wesleyan University Student Experience
Report Card: Overall Grade D+
Texas Wesleyan University receives an overall grade of D+ based on six dimensions:
- Academics: D
- Value: F
- Outcomes: C+
- Affordability: C+
College Analysis
Texas Wesleyan University is a Private Nonprofit institution in Fort Worth, TX with approximately 1,741 students. Texas Wesleyan University has a relatively low graduation rate, which may indicate challenges in student retention. The university's median earnings 10 years after graduation are above the national average, suggesting a good return on investment. The tuition cost is high, which could be a barrier for some students, despite the university's affordability score. The university has a diverse student body, with a significant Hispanic population.
The Verdict: Is Texas Wesleyan University Worth It?
Texas Wesleyan University presents a challenging value proposition, particularly when considering its median 10-year earnings of $54,053 against an in-state tuition of $39,582 per year. With a total cost of attendance likely exceeding $50,000 annually, a four-year degree could easily approach $200,000. The median debt of $23,125 is relatively moderate, but the low median earnings suggest a long road to financial recovery. The ROI score of -66 is a stark indicator that, on average, graduates do not recoup their investment within a typical timeframe. To break even on tuition alone (ignoring living expenses and interest), a graduate would need to earn their annual tuition cost for approximately 0.73 years, or about 9 months, assuming they could save their entire salary. However, factoring in living expenses and the median debt, the payoff timeline extends significantly. Compared to the national average earnings for college graduates, Texas Wesleyan's median earnings are considerably lower. This suggests that while the university provides an education, the immediate post-graduation financial return may not justify the significant investment for many students. It is not a hidden gem, nor is it a straightforward overpriced option, but the data points towards a value that requires careful consideration and potentially a focus on high-earning majors or further graduate studies to enhance career outcomes.
Return on Investment
Despite the high tuition, the above-average earnings 10 years after graduation suggest that the degree is worth the cost for many students.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Texas Wesleyan University: $23,125. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $263/month. Total repaid: $31,560 ($8,435 in interest).
Breakeven vs high school diploma: 1 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $31,560.
Strengths
- Diverse student body
- Above-average earnings 10 years after graduation
Weaknesses
- Low graduation rate
- High tuition cost
Academic Profile
SAT Average: 1070. ACT Midpoint: 19. Retention Rate: 60.8%.
Texas Wesleyan University prides itself on providing a personalized academic experience, a hallmark of its smaller size and commitment to student success. While the university offers a broad range of undergraduate programs, certain departments stand out for their robust offerings and student outcomes. The School of Health Sciences is a significant draw, with popular programs like Nursing and Physical Therapy Assistant that prepare students for in-demand careers. The School of Business Administration is also a strong contender, offering practical business education with concentrations that align with the needs of the Fort Worth economy. Research opportunities, while perhaps not as extensive as at larger research institutions, are available and encouraged, particularly for motivated students seeking to deepen their understanding within their chosen fields. Faculty quality is a key strength; while specific salary data isn't provided, the university's private, nonprofit status and commitment to undergraduate teaching suggest a faculty dedicated to student mentorship. The student-faculty ratio, though not explicitly stated, is likely favorable given the university's size, allowing for more individualized attention. The Honors Program offers a challenging academic path for high-achieving students, providing enriched coursework and opportunities for leadership. Study abroad programs, though potentially smaller in scale, are available and offer valuable global perspectives. Academic support resources are robust, including tutoring services, writing centers, and academic advising, all designed to help students navigate their coursework and achieve their academic goals.
Financial Aid Guide for Texas Wesleyan University
Pell Grant recipients: 44.7%. Students taking federal loans: 37.7%.
Navigating financial aid at Texas Wesleyan University involves understanding both merit-based and need-based opportunities. As a private institution, Texas Wesleyan offers a range of institutional aid, including scholarships and grants, designed to make its education accessible. Merit scholarships are often awarded automatically based on academic achievement (GPA and, if submitted, test scores) at the time of admission. These can range significantly, potentially covering a portion of the $39,582 tuition. For instance, a strong academic profile might secure a merit award of $10,000-$20,000 annually. Need-based aid, determined by the FAFSA, plays a crucial role. Students from lower-income backgrounds may qualify for federal grants like the Pell Grant (though specific rates aren't provided, it's a key federal program) and state grants, which can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost. Institutional grants are also awarded based on demonstrated financial need. Work-study opportunities are available for eligible students, providing part-time employment on campus to help cover living expenses. Typical aid packages can vary widely. For a student with moderate need, a package might combine a merit scholarship with institutional grants and federal loans, potentially reducing the net cost of attendance considerably. For students with higher demonstrated need, the combination of grants and work-study could cover a larger portion of tuition and living costs. Scholarship tips include applying early, exploring departmental scholarships, and looking for external scholarships. Negotiating aid at Texas Wesleyan is possible, especially if you have competing offers from similar institutions, but it's generally more effective when you have a strong academic profile or significant demonstrated need.
Hidden Costs at Texas Wesleyan University
- Room and Board: On-campus housing and meal plans can range from $10,000 to $15,000 annually, depending on the chosen dorm and meal plan.
- Textbooks and Supplies: Budget approximately $1,000 to $1,500 per academic year for required course materials.
- Student Fees: Expect various campus fees, often totaling $500 to $1,000 per semester, covering services like technology, student activities, and health services.
- Transportation: Costs for commuting or travel to and from campus, including gas, public transport, or flights, can vary widely but budget at least $500-$1,000 annually.
- Personal Expenses: Allow for spending money on toiletries, entertainment, laundry, and other personal necessities, estimated at $1,500 to $2,500 per year.
- Parking Permits: If you plan to bring a car to campus, parking permits can cost between $100 and $300 per academic year.
- Health Insurance: While students may be covered under a parent's plan, the university offers a student health insurance plan, which can cost upwards of $2,000 annually if needed.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Texas Wesleyan University, a private institution in Fort Worth, Texas, offers a focused educational experience with a student body of around 1,741. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting from Texas Wesleyan is not widely publicized, graduates typically find opportunities within the robust Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex. Alumni often cluster in sectors that are prominent in the region, such as healthcare, education, business services, and technology. Given its size and private nature, the university likely fosters strong relationships with local and regional companies rather than national recruitment drives. Industries like healthcare, with major players such as Texas Health Resources and Baylor Scott & White Health, and education, with the Fort Worth Independent School District and surrounding university systems, are common destinations for graduates. Business and finance roles are also prevalent, with opportunities at companies like American Airlines (headquartered in Fort Worth), Fidelity Investments, and various regional banks.
Information regarding graduate school placement rates is not readily available, but it's reasonable to assume that students pursuing advanced degrees in fields like education, counseling, or business administration would leverage the university's connections for further academic pursuits. Notable alumni are not extensively highlighted, suggesting a focus on practical career outcomes over widespread public recognition. The career services department at Texas Wesleyan likely plays a crucial role in connecting students with internships and job opportunities within the DFW area. Internship pipelines are probably strongest with local businesses and organizations that have established partnerships with the university. Geographic hiring patterns for Texas Wesleyan graduates are overwhelmingly concentrated in the DFW metroplex, with a smaller percentage potentially finding roles in other parts of Texas or neighboring states, depending on their field of study and personal networks. The university's emphasis is on preparing students for immediate employment or further study within a strong regional economic landscape.
Campus Life & Culture at Texas Wesleyan University
Texas Wesleyan University attracts a diverse student body, with a significant portion of students coming from Texas, but also drawing students from across the nation and internationally. The university fosters an inclusive environment where students from various socioeconomic backgrounds can thrive, particularly those who value a close-knit community and personalized academic support. Students who are proactive, engaged, and seek a supportive environment to pursue their academic and personal goals tend to do particularly well here.
Texas Wesleyan University, nestled in the vibrant city of Fort Worth, offers a close-knit campus community with a distinctively Southern charm. The 'vibe' here is often described as friendly, supportive, and engaged, with a strong emphasis on personal connections between students and faculty. With an undergraduate population of around 1,700, it’s large enough to offer diverse experiences but small enough to foster a genuine sense of belonging. Residential life is a key component, with on-campus housing available in traditional residence halls and apartment-style options, providing a convenient and immersive experience. The Ram Cafe serves as the central dining hub, offering a variety of meal plans to suit different needs. Student organizations are plentiful, covering a wide range of interests from academic clubs and cultural groups to service organizations and intramural sports. Texas Wesleyan doesn't have a traditional Greek life system with national fraternities and sororities, which contributes to its unique social dynamic, focusing more on broader campus-wide events and student-led initiatives. Athletics are a significant part of the campus spirit, with the Rams competing in the NAIA, particularly strong in sports like basketball and football, drawing enthusiastic crowds to games. Campus traditions, like the annual 'Homecoming' celebration and 'Founder's Day,' help weave students into the university's rich history. The campus itself, with its blend of historic and modern architecture, provides a picturesque setting for student life, often buzzing with activity, especially around the Student Center and the library.
Campus Highlights
- The historic Polytechnic College campus, offering a blend of classic and modern architecture.
- Strong community feel fostered by a smaller student body and engaged faculty.
- Proximity to downtown Fort Worth, providing access to cultural attractions, internships, and entertainment.
- The 'Rams' athletic teams, a significant source of school spirit and community engagement.
- A diverse range of student organizations catering to various interests, promoting active campus involvement.
- The 'Texas Wesleyan Experience' emphasis, focusing on personalized attention and student success.
- The university's commitment to community service and engagement within the Fort Worth area.
Location & Regional Advantages
Texas Wesleyan University's location in Fort Worth, Texas, offers a strategic advantage within the dynamic Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex, one of the largest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States. Fort Worth itself boasts a diverse and expanding economy, with significant presence in sectors like aviation, defense, healthcare, and technology. This proximity provides students with direct access to a vast job market, offering numerous internship and post-graduation employment opportunities. Major employers in the vicinity include American Airlines, Lockheed Martin, Bell Helicopter, Texas Health Resources, and numerous companies within the financial and business services sectors. The cost of living in Fort Worth is generally more affordable than in many other major U.S. cities, particularly when compared to the national average, making it easier for graduates to manage living expenses and student loan debt.
Quality of life in Fort Worth is high, with a vibrant cultural scene, numerous parks, and a growing culinary landscape. The weather is characteristic of North Texas, featuring hot summers and mild winters, which is appealing to many. Safety is a concern in any urban environment, but Fort Worth, like most large cities, has areas with varying safety profiles; students are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings. The geographic advantage of being in the DFW area is undeniable for career opportunities. The concentration of Fortune 500 companies, a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, and a continuous influx of new businesses create a fertile ground for graduates seeking employment. Furthermore, the presence of other major universities in the DFW area, such as UT Dallas and SMU, contributes to a rich academic and professional network that Texas Wesleyan graduates can tap into. This location positions students well for careers in a wide array of industries, offering a strong foundation for long-term professional growth.
How to Get Into Texas Wesleyan University
Texas Wesleyan University's admission rate of 69.2% indicates a moderately selective admissions process. While not highly competitive, a thoughtful application is still crucial for admission. The university likely values a holistic review, considering not just academic metrics but also personal qualities and potential contributions to the campus community. Since SAT/ACT scores are not a primary focus (indicated by N/A), your high school GPA and the rigor of your coursework will be paramount. Aim for a GPA that reflects consistent effort and strong performance, ideally in the B+ to A- range or higher. Essays are your opportunity to shine; focus on topics that reveal your personality, resilience, unique experiences, or your specific interest in Texas Wesleyan. Mentioning specific programs or faculty that attract you demonstrates genuine interest. While Texas Wesleyan may not have a formal Early Decision or Early Action policy with significant advantages, applying early is always recommended to ensure your application is reviewed promptly and to allow ample time for financial aid processing. Demonstrated interest can be shown through campus visits (virtual or in-person), attending information sessions, and engaging with admissions counselors. The ideal timeline involves having your application submitted well before the priority deadlines, typically in late winter or early spring, to maximize scholarship and financial aid opportunities.
How Texas Wesleyan University Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: University of Dallas, Southern Methodist University (SMU), TCU (Texas Christian University), Austin College
Advantages
- More affordable tuition compared to some private peers like TCU or SMU.
- Stronger focus on specific niche programs that may offer unique career paths.
- Location within the growing Fort Worth economy, offering distinct regional opportunities.
Disadvantages
- Lower median graduate earnings compared to many comparable private institutions.
- Lower graduation rates suggest potential challenges with student retention or program completion.
- Less national brand recognition, which can impact recruitment for roles outside the immediate DFW area.
Best For
- Students seeking a lower-cost education option may want to consider other institutions.
- Students looking for a higher graduation rate might prefer larger public universities.
Avoid If
- Students with a strong financial aid package or those willing to take on significant debt may find the high tuition justifiable.
- Students prioritizing a high graduation rate might want to explore other options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Texas Wesleyan University
How much does it cost to attend Texas Wesleyan University?
In-state tuition at Texas Wesleyan University is $39,582 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $39,582 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $23,125.
What is the acceptance rate at Texas Wesleyan University?
Texas Wesleyan University has an acceptance rate of 69.2%.
What is the graduation rate at Texas Wesleyan University?
Texas Wesleyan University has a graduation rate of 31.9%.
How much do Texas Wesleyan University graduates earn?
The median earnings for Texas Wesleyan University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $54,053. With median debt of $23,125, graduates earn roughly 2.3x their debt level annually.
How big is Texas Wesleyan University?
Texas Wesleyan University has approximately 1,741 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Fort Worth, TX and is a Private Nonprofit institution.
Is Texas Wesleyan University worth the cost?
Texas Wesleyan University has an ROI score of -66 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $39,582 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $54,053, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Texas Wesleyan University located?
Texas Wesleyan University is located in Fort Worth, TX. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 1,741 students.
How much student debt do Texas Wesleyan University graduates have?
The median student debt for Texas Wesleyan University graduates is $23,125. With median earnings of $54,053 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 43%.
Is Texas Wesleyan University a good college?
Texas Wesleyan University has a graduation rate of 31.9% and median post-graduation earnings of $54,053. Low graduation rate of 31.95%
How does Texas Wesleyan University compare to similar colleges?
High tuition cost of $39,582 per year Texas Wesleyan University offers a good return on investment with above-average earnings, but the high tuition and low graduation rate may deter some students.
What career prospects do Texas Wesleyan University graduates have?
Graduates of Texas Wesleyan University can expect to enter the job market with a competitive salary, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a career in their field.
What should prospective students know about Texas Wesleyan University?
Texas Wesleyan University is positioned in the market as a small, private institution with a focus on providing a diverse educational experience, but it may struggle to attract students due to its high tuition and low graduation rate.
What makes Texas Wesleyan University stand out?
Median earnings 10 years after graduation are $54,053
What are the pros and cons of attending Texas Wesleyan University?
Diverse student body with 34.98% Hispanic students
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Visit Texas Wesleyan University official website
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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.