About SWU
University Mission
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused learning community devoted to transforming lives by challenging students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ.
Southern Wesleyan University was originally established in 1906 as the Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute whose mission was to develop Christian character in its students while giving thorough intellectual training. Now, a private, four–year Christian university, we are committed to providing liberal arts and professional education. Though our name has changed over the years, our mission—to be a Christian community of learners that recognizes God as the source of all truth and wisdom—has remained.
Our HistoryUniversity Leadership
As University President, Dr. William D. Barker provides leadership and vision for the direction of Southern Wesleyan University. Along with our Board of Trustees and the advisement of the President's Cabinet, Dr. Barker leads our campus through visioning, planning, fundraising, and nurturing a culture consistent with the university's mission.
Our President
The Wesleyan Church
We are proud to be one of five Wesleyan universities affiliated with The Wesleyan Church, a worldwide body of evangelical Protestant believers. The Wesleyan Church traces its roots back to John Wesley in England. At Southern Wesleyan, we welcome students from all Christian backgrounds and denominations into our community. Our campus includes many Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, etc., as well as nondenominational students. We all share a strong commitment to knowing Christ and making Him known, and we celebrate our theological similarities while appreciating our differences. The other Wesleyan universities are Houghton College (NY), Indiana Wesleyan University, Kingswood University (NB), and Oklahoma Wesleyan University.
What is a Wesleyan?Nationally Recognized Accreditation
One of the hallmarks of excellence for higher education institutions is accreditation. To achieve accreditation by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, colleges and universities must meet strict quality standards in areas such as academic degree programs, faculty, fulfillment of institutional mission, student services and technology. Studying at an accredited institution, such as Southern Wesleyan University, ensures that course credits and degrees that you earn here will be accepted by other accredited colleges and universities. Southern Wesleyan University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctoral degrees.
Accreditation