Illinois Wesleyan University was founded in 1850 by a diverse group of 30 civic and religious leaders who came together to establish "an Institution of learning of Collegiate grade." When a sponsor was needed, the founders gained support from the United Methodist Church, which is how "Wesleyan" was added to the original name, "Illinois University."
History
In 1851, an admissions circular declared that the patrons of Illinois Wesleyan had established "an Institution of Learning which shall shed brightness on all the land around and send down floods of light and blessedness upon generations yet to come.
Education
Illinois Wesleyan University, an independent, residential, liberal arts university founded in 1850, strives to attain the ideal of a liberal education while providing unique opportunities with distinctive curricula and programs. A liberal education at Illinois Wesleyan fosters creativity, critical thinking, effective communication, strength of character and a spirit of inquiry. Our curriculum deepens the specialized knowledge of a discipline with a comprehensive world view.The Illinois Wesleyan experience affords the greatest possibilities for realizing individual potential while preparing students for democratic citizenship and life in a global society.
Research
Because Illinois Wesleyan is an entirely undergraduate institution, students are offered research and creative opportunities without competition from graduate students.
They develop close relationships with faculty who love to teach and engage students in their research and scholarly work.
Career
We're passionate about helping you through every step of your career - whether it's nabbing your dream internship, acing your MCAT, landing your first job after college, or wherever else your career journey may take you.
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The grounds is wonderful and the scholastics are generally excellent. The teachers, the educational plan, the course plan, and the help structure � from consultants to the Arnold Wellbeing Administrations advising program � are mind blowing. On my academic journey, I have never felt more supported than I do here. Illinois Wesleyan College puts an emphasis on scholastics and that's what I love! The courses are thorough, making it the ideal grounds for individuals who love to learn.
Posted byJames
Studied fromUnknown
Posted onJun 2025
4/5
Reasons why I’m not happy with my university
To be honest and clear in this my university is very difficult for students whose passion for education is at the top notch of their dreams reasons ar stated below
Students find it difficult to complete their various subjects modules due to the laggardness of our lectures which annoys me always because to me education is a paramount weapon which builds every nation
Rejection of students coming from high schools with a very good grades on their subjects areas are been rejected due to what keeps people away and I’m once a victim to this effect
Lack of structures in the university which makes a lot of students feel like they’re being punished for what they should enjoyed and mind you it’s the oldest university in country but still there’s no improvement
In conclusions, there’s nothing about this university that makes me feel good about them I think the university counselor should put things in place to help resolve these problems thank you.
Illinois Wesleyan University strives to take full advantage of its residential character to afford each student challenging yet supportive opportunities for intellectual, social, ethical, and personal growth. The Division of Student Affairs at Illinois Wesleyan University comprises those offices and areas that work directly with students to enhance and complement the University's educational mission.
Housing services
While your residence hall is a place to keep your stuff, it’s also the place you meet best friends that will last through your college years and the rest of your life. From the First-Year Resident Advisor you meet on move-in day, to the unlikely suspect down the hall you never thought you’d have so much in common with, you will never forget these people who share your IWU life.
Library services
The Ames Library is the intellectual heart of Illinois Wesleyan University. It is here that scholarly information, regardless of format, is gathered, organized, and prepared for dissemination to the University community. In addition, the library provides a place for interaction, collaboration, consultation, study and reflection.
Medical services
Health Service strives to provide quality, accessible, comprehensive and cost effective health care that enables students to achieve their academic and intellectual potential. Cultural competency, social justice and the impact of global health issues are addressed and understood to be of concern to our students, parents, campus and community.
Sports facilities
The $15 million Shirk Center, opened in 1994, was funded in part by a $5 million gift from the Russell and Betty Shirk Foundation of Bloomington. The Shirk family owns Beer Nuts, Inc.®, the Bloomington-based snack food company. The two-level, 135,344-square foot complex seats 2,680 for sporting events (3,450 for commencement) in its performance arena, and contains four multi-use courts for tennis, volleyball, basketball, and other sports, as well as racquetball courts, a 200-meter track, a training room and wellness center, classrooms, and other facilities.
IWU's men's and women's soccer teams make their home at the lighted Neis (pronounced "nice") Soccer Field.
Student clubs
The Office of Student Activities and Leadership Programs is your headquarters for Registered Student Organizations. The Involvement Center is where you get support for: RSO Leadership development, Individual Leadership Development, Budgeting, Contract review and questions, Collaborating on big programs, Event planning resources, and RSO recognition.
Accreditation
Illinois Wesleyan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
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