What makes Southwestern University unique. How does Southwestern University foster student success. What opportunities are available for students at Southwestern University. What is campus life like at Southwestern University. How does Southwestern University prepare students for the future.
Southwestern University: A Rich Heritage and Academic Excellence
Southwestern University, chartered in 1840, holds the distinction of being the first institution of higher learning in Texas. Founded by Methodist missionaries, the university maintains its affiliation with the United Methodist Church to this day. This deep-rooted history sets the stage for a unique educational experience that blends tradition with modern academic excellence.
The university’s commitment to academic rigor is evident in its faculty. All tenured or tenure-track professors hold doctoral degrees or the highest qualifications in their respective fields. This dedication to scholarly expertise ensures that students receive top-tier education across all disciplines.
Student-Faculty Collaboration: A Hallmark of Southwestern
One of the most notable aspects of Southwestern University is its emphasis on student-faculty collaboration. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1 and an average class size of 18, students have ample opportunities to engage directly with their professors. This close-knit academic environment fosters collaborative research and publication opportunities, often resulting in students seeing their work published before graduation.
Diverse Student Body and Competitive Admissions
Southwestern University prides itself on cultivating a diverse and academically driven student body. In fall 2019, the university welcomed 1,511 students, with 33% being under-represented students. The admissions process is selective, with a 49% acceptance rate. The incoming class of 444 first-year students boasted impressive credentials:
- 35% ranked in the top 10% of their high school class
- Average SAT score: 1229
- Average ACT score: 26
The student population represents a mix of geographical backgrounds, with 88% hailing from Texas and the remaining 12% coming from 34 other states and 16 countries. This diversity creates a rich cultural tapestry on campus, exposing students to a variety of perspectives and experiences.
Comprehensive Academic Programs and Unique Learning Opportunities
Southwestern University offers a range of undergraduate degrees, including Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Education, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Fine Arts. The university’s academic offerings span a wide array of disciplines, ensuring that students can pursue their passions and interests.
Majors and Pre-professional Pathways
Students at Southwestern can choose from over 30 majors, including traditional liberal arts disciplines and interdisciplinary programs. Some of the notable majors include:
- Anthropology
- Biochemistry
- Environmental Studies
- Feminist Studies
- International Studies
- Kinesiology
For those with specific career goals in mind, Southwestern offers pre-professional pathways in areas such as pre-medicine, pre-law, pre-dentistry, and pre-veterinary medicine. These programs provide targeted guidance and coursework to prepare students for advanced studies in their chosen fields.
Paideia: The Philosophy of Making Connections
A unique feature of Southwestern’s curriculum is the Paideia program. This educational philosophy emphasizes the importance of making connections across disciplines and experiences. All students participate in Paideia experiences throughout their academic journey, starting with the First-Year or Advanced-Entry Seminar.
The Paideia approach is integrated into all courses, encouraging students to recognize the intersections between different ideas and subject areas. This culminates in a capstone experience within each major, allowing students to synthesize their learning and make meaningful connections across their field of study.
For students seeking an even more intensive experience, Southwestern offers the opportunity to pursue Paideia with Distinction. This path includes additional elements beyond standard graduation requirements, further enhancing students’ ability to integrate knowledge and skills across disciplines.
Campus Life: A Vibrant and Engaging Community
Southwestern University’s 701-acre campus in Central Texas provides a beautiful and stimulating environment for students to live, learn, and grow. The heart of the university is its “100-acre wood,” which houses the academic buildings and serves as a hub for student activities.
Recreation and Wellness
The campus offers a wide range of recreational facilities and activities to promote student well-being:
- Ultimate Frisbee on the academic mall
- Community garden for hands-on sustainability experience
- State-of-the-art recreation center with swimming pool, basketball courts, and fitness equipment
- Two live-performance theaters for artistic expression
- On-campus observatory for stargazing and astronomical studies
Housing and Transportation
Over three-quarters of Southwestern students live in on-campus housing, fostering a strong sense of community. The university’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its transportation options, with a fleet of Pirate Bikes available to all students, faculty, and staff. This rideshare program provides a quick and eco-friendly way to navigate the campus.
Student Organizations and Extracurricular Activities
Southwestern University boasts over 60 student organizations, catering to a wide range of interests and passions. These groups include:
- Scholastic and honorary societies
- Student government
- Sororities and fraternities
- Special-interest groups
- Departmental organizations
This diverse array of extracurricular options ensures that students can explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and form lasting friendships outside the classroom. While academics remain the primary focus, these organizations play a crucial role in shaping the overall college experience and personal growth of students.
Global Perspectives: Study Abroad and Off-Campus Programs
Southwestern University recognizes the importance of global exposure and experiential learning in today’s interconnected world. The university offers numerous opportunities for students to broaden their horizons through study abroad and off-campus programs.
International Study Opportunities
Nearly one-third of Southwestern students participate in study abroad programs during their academic career. The university offers a variety of international experiences, including:
- A semester-long London program each fall
- Summer programs in Argentina, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Perú, and Spain
- Access to universities worldwide through the International Student Exchange Program
These international experiences allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures, gain new perspectives, and develop valuable cross-cultural communication skills.
Domestic Off-Campus Programs
In addition to international opportunities, Southwestern offers domestic off-campus programs that provide unique learning experiences:
- New York City semester focusing on the arts
- Washington, DC semester centered on politics and policy
- Internship opportunities, both within the United States and abroad
These programs allow students to gain hands-on experience in their fields of interest, network with professionals, and apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
Civic Engagement and Community Impact
Southwestern University places a strong emphasis on civic engagement and community service. The university’s commitment to social responsibility is reflected in the active participation of its student body in various volunteer activities.
Impressive Volunteer Statistics
In the 2018-2019 academic year, Southwestern students demonstrated their dedication to community service:
- Over 50% of students volunteered on campus or in the community
- Students contributed more than 9,500 service hours annually
- Volunteer work spanned across more than 100 local nonprofits and agencies
This high level of civic engagement not only benefits the local community but also helps students develop a sense of social responsibility, leadership skills, and a broader understanding of societal issues.
Impact on Student Development
Participation in community service and civic engagement activities provides numerous benefits to Southwestern students:
- Practical application of classroom knowledge
- Development of empathy and social awareness
- Networking opportunities with local organizations
- Enhancement of problem-solving and teamwork skills
- Preparation for future careers in nonprofit and public service sectors
By encouraging students to actively engage with their community, Southwestern University fosters a culture of social responsibility that extends beyond graduation.
.png)
Sustainability: A Core Value at Southwestern
Southwestern University’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond just maintaining a green Academic Mall. The university has integrated environmental consciousness into its philosophy and operations, making it a fundamental aspect of campus life and education.
Green Initiatives on Campus
Southwestern has implemented various sustainability initiatives across its campus:
- Energy-efficient buildings and retrofits
- Water conservation measures
- Recycling and waste reduction programs
- Sustainable landscaping practices
- Use of renewable energy sources
These efforts not only reduce the university’s environmental footprint but also serve as living laboratories for students to learn about sustainable practices firsthand.
Sustainability in the Curriculum
Southwestern integrates sustainability concepts into various academic disciplines, allowing students to explore environmental issues from multiple perspectives:
- Environmental Studies major and related courses
- Sustainability-focused research opportunities
- Guest lectures and workshops on environmental topics
- Interdisciplinary projects addressing sustainability challenges
By incorporating sustainability into both campus operations and academic programs, Southwestern prepares students to be environmentally conscious leaders in their future careers and communities.
Southwestern University’s commitment to academic excellence, student engagement, and sustainability creates a unique educational environment. From its rich history to its forward-thinking approach to education, Southwestern offers students a comprehensive and transformative college experience. The university’s emphasis on making connections across disciplines, combined with opportunities for global learning and community engagement, equips graduates with the skills and perspectives needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
University Profile • Southwestern University
Heritage
We’re not as old as The Alamo, but Southwestern was the first institution of higher learning in Texas, chartered by the Republic of Texas in 1840. Our founders were Methodist missionaries; the University continues its affiliation with the United Methodist Church today.
Faculty
Southwestern hires some of the most impressive and committed professors. All tenured or tenure-track faculty hold a doctorate or the highest degree in their respective fields. With a student–to-faculty ratio of 12:1 and an average class size of 18, student-faculty collaborative research and publication are common. (It’s true: your work may actually be published before you graduate!)
Students
In the fall of 2019, Southwestern welcomed 1,511 men and women, of which 33 percent were under-represented students. Forty-nine percent of students who applied were offered admission, resulting in 444 entering first-year students. Of those, 35 percent ranked in the top 10 percent of their high school class. The average SAT was 1229 and average ACT score was 26. Eighty-eight percent of our students hail from Texas while the remaining 12 percent come from 34 other states and 16 countries.
Degrees
Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Science in Education, Bachelor of Music, and Bachelor of Fine Arts. No graduate degrees or programs are offered.
Majors
Anthropology, Applied Physics, Art (Studio), Art History, Biochemistry, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Classics, Communication Studies, Computational Mathematics, Computer Science, Economics, Education, English, Environmental Studies, Feminist Studies, Financial Economics, French, German, Greek, History, International Studies, Kinesiology, Latin, Latin American Studies, Mathematics, Music, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, Sociology, Spanish, and Theatre.
Certification Programs: Education
Pre-professional Pathways: Pre-Dentistry, Pre-Engineering, Pre-Law, Pre-Medicine, Pre-Ministry, Pre-Physical Therapy, Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Paideia: The Philosophy of Making Connections
All Southwestern students participate in Paideia experiences throughout the curriculum.
The First-Year or Advanced-Entry Seminar introduces students to the practice of making connections, with a special focus on incorporating perspectives from multiple disciplines. All other courses explicitly acknowledge the connections between ideas within their own course material; many will point to intersections with other courses. All majors include an opportunity to consider how various skills and ideas connect across the department or program and culminate in a capstone experience. In addition to these integrated Paideia experiences, Southwestern encourages students to choose a more intensive Paideia path that includes elements above and beyond the graduation requirements for all students and leads to the designation of Paideia with Distinction.
Campus
Situated on 701 beautiful Central Texas acres, Southwestern has its own “100-acre wood,” also known as the academic campus, where students enjoy everything from playing Ultimate Frisbee to studying on the academic mall; getting their hands dirty in the community garden to swimming laps, shooting hoops, or lifting weights in the recreation center; performing in one of our two live-performance theaters to star gazing at the on-campus observatory.
Housing and Transportation
More than three-quarters of all students live in residential campus housing, and everyone—students, faculty, and staff—has access to a fleet of Pirate Bikes, a rideshare program that help us get around campus in a quick and environmentally friendly way.
Student Organizations
With over 60 student organizations, from scholastic and honorary societies to student government, sororities and fraternities, special-interest groups, and departmental organizations, Southwestern students stay busy. (But don’t worry, academics are still the main focus here.)
Off-Campus and International Study
As much as they love being here, students like to venture off campus now and then, too. Nearly one-third of students study abroad. A London experience is available each fall, along with summer programs in locations such as Argentina, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Perú, and Spain. Our students have access to universities around the world through the International Student Exchange Program.
In addition, Southwestern offers opportunities for semesters in New York City (arts) and Washington, DC (politics), as well as internships, both domestic and abroad.
Civic Engagement
In the 2018–2019 academic year, over 50% of students volunteered on campus or in the community. Students gave more than 9,500 service hours annually at more than 100 local nonprofits and agencies.
Sustainability
It’s not only the Academic Mall that’s green here; our philosophy and even some of our buildings are, too—the Wilhelmina Cullen Welcome Center and the Prothro Center for Lifelong Learning are both LEED certified. Southwestern was the second university in Texas to sign the Talloires Declaration, a formal commitment to sustainability in higher education. In 2009, Southwestern also signed the College and University Presidents Climate Commitment. In addition, Southwestern was the first university in Texas to change to 100% wind energy.
Athletics
Southwestern student-athletes (Go, Pirates!) compete in NCAA Division III basketball, cross-country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, swimming and diving, tennis, and track and field for men and women; men’s baseball and football; and women’s softball and volleyball.
Our teams are members of the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) with Austin College, Centenary College, Colorado College, University of Dallas, Johnson & Wales, St. Thomas, Schreiner University, Texas Lutheran University, and Trinity University. Our football team is an affiliate member of the American Southwest Conference (ASC), whose members include Belhaven University, Concordia University Texas, East Texas Baptist University, Hardin–Simmons University, Howard Payne University, LeTourneau University, Louisiana College, University of Mary Hardin–Baylor, McMurry University, Texas Lutheran University, University of the Ozarks, Sul Ross State University, University of Texas at Dallas, and University of Texas at Tyler. For those looking for less official (but still competitive) activities to choose from, there are 22 intramural sports and two club sports: SU Cheerleaders and SU Dancers. More than 60% of our students participate annually in some form of organized physical activity.
Success after Southwestern
As of July 2019, 91% of Southwestern graduates had obtained employment or had been accepted into graduate or professional school within 10 months. The 2019 edition of the Princeton Review’s The Best 385 Colleges ranked Southwestern #6 in the country for Best Career Services and #3 in the country for Impact Schools.
Lectureships and Symposia
Brown Symposium Series
The Roy and Margaret Shilling Lecture Series
The Writer’s Voice
The Lurlyn and Durwood Fleming Scholar in Residence Program in Religion
The A. Frank Smith, Jr. Distinguished Lecture Program
The Jessie Daniel Ames Lecture
The Willson Lectureships
Paideia Connections
What Others Are Saying
Southwestern University enjoys recognition by a number of college guidebooks and other ranking services for our quality of education, sustainability, value, and contributions to the public good.
For a complete list, visit our Rankings and Recognition page.
Tuition
For 2019–2020, tuition and fees total $43,560. The average room rate ranges from $5,230 for a two-person room in the oldest residence hall on campus to $14,540 for a one-bedroom apartment in the newest residential center. Meal plans ranging from $2,192 to $6,298 are available. Of the students enrolled for the fall 2018 semester, 98% received financial aid from Southwestern; students in the fall 2017 entering class received more than $8.7 million of institutional assistance.
Endowment
$281,475,886 as of June 30, 2018
Southwestern University – The Princeton Review College Rankings & Reviews
About
From the School
For nearly two centuries Southwestern University has stood proudly as one of the nation’s oldest and finest liberal arts institutions. Our beautiful, tree-lined residential campus encompasses more than 700 acres featuring spacious sports and recreational facilities, multiple research laboratories, two live-performance theaters, and countless outdoor places to study, relax or socialize.
Recognized for our commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly practices, our campus was one of the first in the nation to meet 100 percent of its electric needs from renewable wind power, and since 1972 we’ve nourished our landscapes and athletic fields with recycled water.
Throughout campus and in the world beyond our students make meaningful connections across disciplines, cultures, and experiences through our unique Paideia approach—a curriculum that allows to students to chart a course that best suits their passions and life goals as they develop creative, critical thinking skills that make them adaptable to any challenge or opportunity. The results are impressive: less than a year after graduation, 98 percent of Southwestern students are either employed, attending a professional school or pursuing advanced studies.
But while you’re at Southwestern you should also know you have the best of all worlds for some good times, whether it’s a relaxing stroll through Georgetown’s historic town square, spending a day on the crystal-clear San Gabriel River, or enjoying an evening reveling in Austin’s live music scene.
A bright future begins here, right in the heart of Texas.
“Southwestern University helped me challenge myself, explore my found and unfound passions, and learn what I was truly capable of. SU is a special place where thinking and learning lead to developing skills that will last you a lifetime. The University gave me the community and the environment that nurtured my creativity and enabled me to flourish.” — Caden Cox ’22, Communication Studies
Southwestern University
1001 E. University Avenue
Georgetown, TX 78626
Telephone: 800.252.3166
Email: [email protected]
Website: southwestern.edu
Save School
- Admissions
- Academics
- Tuition & Aid
- Student Body
- Campus Life
- Careers
Admissions
Applicants: 5,557
Acceptance Rate: 45%
Average HS GPA: 3.
53
Academics
Careers
Tuition & Aid
Student Body
Campus Life
Save School
Articles & Advice
Crafting an Unforgettable College Essay
What is a Good SAT Score?
What is a Good ACT Score?
Top 10 College Majors
Southwest and D.C. Wharf
Home to the nation’s longest permanent open-air fish market, houseboats, and a vibrant waterfront community offering panoramic views, extensive recreational activities, and easy access to Washington, D.C.’s hottest spots Colombia. monuments and memorials. At the same time, it is quickly becoming one of the most popular districts of D.C. with Wharf, a waterfront restaurant and entertainment center with many things to do and do.
An oasis in the city, Southwest & The Wharf is home to the largest “safaris” group on the East Coast, meaning people who live on boats year-round.
Many are docked at Gangplank Marina, side by side with DC cruise boats such as City Cruises. In warm weather, free outdoor movies, yoga classes and other workout programs are waiting for you. In cold weather, during the holidays, the promenade attracts a procession of brightly lit boats as part of the Lighted Boat Parade, which starts in the Old City of Alexandria.
With a host of hotels including the luxurious Mandarin Oriental and the spacious Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall, Southwest & The Wharf is within walking distance of renowned attractions including the International Spy Museum, the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, and the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden, US Capitol. The area has its favorite waterfront attractions, including a two-century-old seafood market, and Arena Stage at the Mead American Theater Center, a cultural center showcasing the best of American theater.
The area offers an eclectic collection of architecture, from 18th-century federal to mid-century modern, and everything in between.
The four buildings were designed by I. M. Pei, architect of the stunning prism outside the Louvre. Keep an eye out for innovative and original events at the one-of-a-kind DK Culture House, a vibrantly colored former Baptist church. Attend a $5 jazz and blues concert on Friday nights at Westminster Presbyterian Church, or chill with hipsters at the Capitol Skyline Hotel’s outdoor pool. Pay tribute to the Titanic Memorial, the inspiration for the Academy Award winning film.
Join locals at restaurants such as Friendliness + Commerce, American Bistro & Bar at Mandarin Oriental, and Masala Art for Indian Cuisine. The Wharf offers over 20 restaurants and bars in the neighborhood, including new concepts from award-winning and Michelin-starred chefs, fast casual favorites and even a distillery. Embark on Fabio Trabocchi’s tour of Spanish coastal cuisine with Del Mar or Workshop, Nicola Stefanelli’s three-story homage to Italian cuisine.
Southwest & The Wharf is a strategic base from which you can enjoy great views of the Potomac River and easy access to the National Mall.
Although this tight-knit community is undergoing a renaissance and rebuilding, they invite visitors to experience authentic Washington lifestyle and culture.
Tuition fees at DC University, Washington – UniPage
Washington, USA
www.udc.edu
Learn all about applying to UDC and available programs in our article.
Are you a representative of this university?
Information is for informational purposes only. Check the prices and requirements on the official website of the educational institution.
About the University
The University of Columbia (UDC) is a public nonprofit educational institution. UDC is located in Washington, USA. UDC is part of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities (APLU). Sport affiliations and memberships: National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
UDC is one of the top most prestigious universities in the US.
The Admissions Committee accepts applications from new students for a list of programs, which can be found on the website of the university.
Need help applying?
Get AdviceAbout Services
DC University Tuition
The DC University academic calendar consists of two semesters. For convenience, the total cost of training is calculated per year. For studying at the University of the District of Columbia, local residents and foreigners pay differently. US citizens need to pay from 4999 USD per year, and for international students – from 12,497 USD. The university provides tuition assistance to some students through financial aid programs. They are available to both locals and foreigners. The exact cost of programs and information on the availability of scholarships can be found on the website of the university.
Additional
When choosing an educational institution, additional costs must be taken into account: hostel, transport, study materials, meals and personal expenses.
