PrivateSuburbanSouthern Wesleyan University
SWU
Central, South Carolina 29630-1020
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — close-knit campus
Southern Wesleyan University is a private suburban institution in Central, South Carolina. The school is accessible to a wide range of students, with an average SAT of 1106.
A small campus of 771 undergraduates with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. The suburban location offers a balance of campus life and nearby amenities.
52% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $47,756 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $19,968.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Warriors
History & Fun Facts
- •History Rickman Library In 1904, representatives of Wesleyan Methodist churches in South Carolina and surrounding states met at Central to consider the possibility of establishing a college.
- •Classes at the new school began on October 15, 1906, with students from first grade through college.
- •Initially known as the "Wesleyan Methodist Bible Institute" (1906–1908), subsequent names included "Wesleyan Methodist College" (1909–1959) and "Central Wesleyan College" (1959–1994).
- •The school was renamed Southern "Wesleyan University" in 1994.
- •Beginning in 1928, the college operated as a two-year junior college, with a four-year theological program.
Source: Wikipedia
Schools Like This
Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1106
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
54.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
3.2%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (46)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
66%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
5
Peer Average
3
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus security, emergency notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from SC state average + suburban adjustment