
204 E College Street, Athens, TN 37303, USA


Tennessee Wesleyan University traces its origins back to 1857 when it was founded as Athens Female College, emphasizing the education of women during a time when higher education opportunities for them were limited. Over the years, the institution underwent several name changes and expansions, reflecting its evolving mission and broader academic offerings. In the early 20th century, it became Tennessee Wesleyan College, beginning to include male students and broaden its curriculum. The university gradually developed into a comprehensive institution committed to providing a liberal arts education combined with professional programs.
Throughout its history, Tennessee Wesleyan University has adapted to the changing educational landscape by adding various academic programs and facilities to support student growth and career preparation. The institution's Methodist heritage influenced its foundational values, but it has worked to maintain an inclusive environment geared toward student success across diverse fields. This historical progression from a small women's college to a full university illustrates its longstanding dedication to accessibility and academic excellence in higher education.
Tennessee Wesleyan University offers a diverse range of academic programs designed to accommodate various interests and career goals. The university's faculties encompass areas such as arts and sciences, business, education, nursing, and music, providing comprehensive options for undergraduate study.
The College of Arts and Sciences includes departments that focus on disciplines like biology, chemistry, communication, history, and mathematics, fostering a strong foundation in liberal arts and sciences. Students interested in healthcare can explore the School of Nursing, which prepares graduates to meet the demands of the medical field with practical and theoretical training.
The Business Department features programs aimed at developing leadership and management skills, integrating contemporary business practices and ethical decision-making. Additionally, the School of Education is dedicated to preparing future educators through coursework and hands-on experiences that align with current educational standards.
For those inclined toward the performing arts, the university maintains a vibrant Music Department that offers instruction in performance, theory, and music education, supporting creative and professional aspirations.
Overall, Tennessee Wesleyan University organizes its academic offerings through focused faculties and departments structured to support an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to engage deeply in their chosen fields while gaining a well-rounded collegiate experience.
Tennessee Wesleyan University is situated in Athens, Tennessee, specifically at 204 East College Street, within the 37303 zip code area. This location places the university in a small city environment that offers a balance of community atmosphere and access to essential amenities. Prospective students can appreciate the convenience of its setting in a town that is easily navigable and close to larger metropolitan areas.
The university's placement in Athens also means it is accessible via nearby transportation hubs. McGhee Tyson Municipal Airport serves as a regional airport option, facilitating travel for students and visitors coming from other locations. This connectivity enhances the university's appeal for those who may be relocating or commuting from outside the immediate area.
Tennessee Wesleyan University is dedicated to providing a comprehensive liberal arts education that encourages intellectual growth, ethical leadership, and community engagement. Its mission emphasizes fostering a supportive environment where students can develop their talents and pursue academic excellence, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society.
The university's vision reflects a commitment to cultivating well-rounded individuals who are equipped with the critical thinking skills and moral compass necessary to navigate a complex, diverse world. It aims to blend rigorous academic programs with opportunities for personal development, promoting lifelong learning and service-oriented leadership among its student body.
Name of the institution
Tennessee Wesleyan UniversityLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PrivateSetting type
Town: DistantInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
1,000 - 4,999School type
Comprehensive higher education institutionMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1857
Bachelor's degree
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Master's degree
Certificate of less than 1 year
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
Data not availableBehavioral Sciences
Data not availableBiological and Physical Sciences
Data not availableBiology, General
Data not availableBusiness Administration, Management and Operations
$38,842Chemistry
Data not availableClinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
Data not availableCommunication and Media Studies
Data not availableComputer and Information Sciences, General
Data not availableCriminal Justice and Corrections
Data not availableDental Support Services and Allied Professions
Data not availableEnglish Language and Literature, General
Data not availableFinance and Financial Management Services
Data not availableHealth and Medical Administrative Services
Data not availableHealth and Physical Education/Fitness
Data not availableHealth/Medical Preparatory Programs
Data not availableHistory
Data not availableHuman Resources Management and Services
Data not availableHuman Services, General
Data not availableLiberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Data not availableMarketing
Data not availableMathematics
Data not availableMental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
Data not availableMulti/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
Data not availableMusic
Data not availablePhilosophy and Religious Studies, General
Data not availablePsychology, General
Data not availableRegistered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
Data not availableResearch and Experimental Psychology
Data not availableRhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
Data not availableSecurity Science and Technology
Data not availableSocial Work
Data not availableSociology
Data not availableSpecial Education and Teaching
Data not availableTeacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
Data not availableTeacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
Data not availableTheological and Ministerial Studies
Data not availableTheology and Religious Vocations, Other
Data not availableVisual and Performing Arts, General
Data not available