Ohio Wesleyan University emblem

Ohio Wesleyan University

Delaware, United States • Founded 1842

Updated Oct 2026 · Source: owu.edu

Overview

Acronyms: OWU
Founded: 1842
Institution Type: University
Control Type: Private
Entity Type: Non-profit
Religious Affiliation: Christian-Methodist
Motto: In lumine tuo videbimus lumen
Colours: Red and black
Mascot: The Battling Bishop
Ohio Wesleyan University emblem

Founded in 1842, the Ohio Wesleyan University is a non-profit private liberal arts higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Delaware (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Ohio.

This institution also has a branch campus in Columbus. Officially accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU) is a very small-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Methodist religion.

Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees in several areas of study. This 181-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.

The acceptance rate range is 70-79% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution.

International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. OWU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Below are Ohio Wesleyan University's address, location, and primary contact channels.

Address: 61 S Sandusky Street
Postal Code: 43015-2370
Phone: +1 (800) 922 8953
Fax: +1 (740) 368 3314
Social Media:

Academic Details

The figures below cover Ohio Wesleyan University's scale, staffing levels, and academic standing.

Recognition: Higher Learning Commission
Total Students: 1,516
Academic Staff Range: 100-199
Campus Setting: Suburban
Memberships & Networks
Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) Five Colleges of Ohio Colleges That Change Lives (CTCL) Great Lakes Colleges Association (GLCA) CIS (Council of International Schools) International Association of College Admission Counselors Institute of International Education Association of International Educators (NAFSA) EducationUSA National Athletic Association (NAA) National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Academic Structures

Ohio Wesleyan University's academic units are listed below, by type.

Unit 29 items
  • Africana, Gender, and Identity Studies
  • Ancient, Medieval, & Renaissance Studies
  • Biological Sciences
  • Chemistry
  • Conrades School of Engineering
  • Data Analytics
  • East Asian Studies
  • Economics and Business
  • Education
  • English
  • Environment & Sustainability
  • Film Studies
  • Fine Arts
  • Global Studies Institute
  • Health & Human Kinetics
  • History
  • International Studies
  • Journalism & Communication
  • Latin American and Latine Studies
  • Mathematics & Computer Science
  • Medical & Health Professions
  • Neuroscience
  • Philosophy & Religion
  • Physics & Astronomy
  • Politics & Government
  • Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Sociology & Anthropology
  • World Languages & Cultures

Programs Offered

All active programmes at Ohio Wesleyan University are listed by degree level.

46 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States

Scholarships in United States

Below are scholarships available to students in the United States.

Dr. Charles Thomas Scholarship
Full Tuition
Recipients receive total financial aid of at least full tuition for four years.
OWU Referral Award
4,000 USD per total · Full Tuition
A $4,000 award, paid as $1,000 per year, for students referred to Ohio Wesleyan by alumni, faculty, staff, students or friends of the University.

How to apply to Ohio Wesleyan University

The application path for Ohio Wesleyan University, in five steps.

  1. 1
    Research programmes at Ohio Wesleyan University

    Ohio Wesleyan University's catalogue includes 46 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.

  2. 2
    Review admissions criteria

    Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Ohio Wesleyan University's admissions process.

  3. 3
    Gather supporting documents

    Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.

  4. 4
    Lodge your application

    Submit your completed application through Ohio Wesleyan University's official website at www.owu.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.

  5. 5
    Confirm receipt and track progress

    Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (800) 922 8953. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ohio Wesleyan University

A short Q&A covering Ohio Wesleyan University's essentials — founding, location, and structure.

When did Ohio Wesleyan University open?

Ohio Wesleyan University traces its founding to 1842 (approximately 184 years ago).

In which city is Ohio Wesleyan University?

Ohio Wesleyan University is based in Delaware, United States.

What is Ohio Wesleyan University's control type?

It is a private higher-education institution.

How many students study at Ohio Wesleyan University?

Ohio Wesleyan University has approximately 1,516 students.

Is Ohio Wesleyan University affiliated with a religion?

Ohio Wesleyan University operates within the Christian-Methodist tradition.

What is Ohio Wesleyan University's academic structure?

The institution comprises 29 academic units.

Is Ohio Wesleyan University accredited?

The institution holds recognition from Higher Learning Commission.

Where can I learn more about Ohio Wesleyan University?

The institution's website is www.owu.edu.

Top-Ranked Universities in the United States

Top the United States universities often run international branch campuses. Ohio Wesleyan University's international footprint compared to this benchmark signals global engagement scale.

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), alongside Ohio Wesleyan University.

Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Methodist

Other Christian-Methodist-affiliated institutions in the United States appear below.

Faculties at nearby universities

Universities located near Ohio Wesleyan University are listed below.

Where Else to Study Biological Sciences

These universities in the United States also offer Biological Sciences programmes, alongside Ohio Wesleyan University.

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