With faith, perseverance and the support of local businessmen and church leaders, Kansas Wesleyan University opened its doors in 1886. Our history includes many memorable moments that have transformed our students, inspired change and brought us to where we are today. Our university, from the very early days of its existence, was built on a pioneering spirit. 

The mission of Kansas Wesleyan University is to promote and integrate academic excellence, spiritual development, personal well-being, and social responsibility.

Kansas Wesleyan provides an educational program characterized by excellence, within a caring community, rooted in the liberal arts tradition. The call of the university is to develop both intellect and character, to stimulate creativity and a sense of discovery, and to nurture the whole person - body, mind, and spirit. Diversity is embraced in curriculum, faculty, and students.

There are many opportunities for undergraduate students in Biology to conduct research, especially during the summer in NSF-funded REU Programs. In addition, there are a variety of undergraduate research grants that can be applied for in order to conduct research at KWU.

Located in a robust city of nearly 50,000, KWU has partnerships with local, regional and global businesses, at the regional hospital and within the thriving arts community. Salina businesses employ KWU students in part-time jobs, internships and post-graduate positions in their career field. Students hone their skills alongside professionals in the Salina Symphony and at the Salina Community Theatre. A regional airport provides non-stop daily flights to Denver and Chicago.