About William Woods University
Students pay an average net price of $22,270 after financial aid, making this private education more affordable than the sticker price suggests. Graduates earn a median of $42,401 ten years after leaving school. With typical debt loads of $21,983, monthly loan payments average $233. The employment rate hits 93.1%, suggesting strong job placement despite modest starting salaries.
Women make up 64% of the student body, reflecting the university's historically strong programs in education and equestrian studies. The Owls compete in 19 NAIA sports with 394 total athletes receiving over $5.4 million in athletic scholarships. The 74% retention rate indicates most students stay, though only 54% graduate in four years. Campus housing accommodates 741 students, creating a tight-knit residential community.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 11:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 31.6%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 53.9%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 57.0%
- Retention Rate
- 73.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $42,401
- Carnegie Classification
- Doctoral/Professional University
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $78,343 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Certificate | $53,579 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $50,856 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $39,801 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Master | $36,488 |
| Educational/Instructional Media Design. | Master | $35,772 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $35,772 |
| American Sign Language. | Bachelor | $32,806 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $29,322 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness. | Bachelor | $27,295 |
Campus Life
The 200-acre campus revolves around equestrian life, with many students spending weekends at the on-site stables or competing in horse shows. With 63.62% of students being women, the atmosphere skews toward collaborative rather than competitive. The 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio means professors know your name and track your progress personally. Small class sizes create study groups that often turn into lasting friendships.
Students frequently head to Columbia, just 30 minutes away, for shopping and dining options beyond Fulton's limited offerings. Campus traditions center on the Owls athletics programs, with 394 student-athletes competing in 19 NAIA sports. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social scenes like at larger universities.
- Setting
- Town-Distant
- Housing Capacity
- 741 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1870
Campus Safety (2023)
4 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Vehicle Theft | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 19°–37°F
- July Avg
- 65°–87°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 45.1"
- Annual Snowfall
- 19.6"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 36.4%
- Women
- 63.6%
- White
- 59.2%
- Black
- 11.7%
- Hispanic
- 8.3%
- Asian
- 1.3%
- In-State Students
- 64.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 30.3%
Location
- Address
- Fulton, Missouri 65251-2388
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $42,401
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $48,059
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $33,100
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 67.7%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $233/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $21,983
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at William Woods University?
William Woods University admits 61.47% of applicants. This selective liberal arts university has maintained its focus on personalized education since 1870. The admissions process reflects their commitment to finding students who will thrive in their close-knit academic community.
How much does William Woods University cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $22,270 annually after aid. With total attendance costs reaching $42,562, most families see significant reductions from the sticker price. Graduates typically leave with $21,983 in debt and monthly loan payments of $233.
What is the student-faculty ratio at William Woods University?
The university maintains an 11:1 student-faculty ratio with 1,061 total students. This small scale allows for intensive mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities. Students benefit from direct access to professors in their specialized programs, particularly in equestrian studies where the school has built a national reputation.
How much do William Woods University graduates earn after college?
Alumni earn a median salary of $42,401 ten years after graduation. The employment rate stands at 93.1%, reflecting strong career preparation. Graduates find success across various fields, though the school's equestrian program alumni often pursue specialized careers in horse training, veterinary medicine, and agricultural business.
Where is William Woods University located and what is campus life like?
The university sits in Fulton, Missouri, a small town that creates a tight-knit campus community. With 741 students living on campus and a 73.71% retention rate, students form lasting connections. The campus houses 394 student-athletes competing in 19 NAIA sports, with the Owls receiving over $5.4 million in athletic scholarships.
What makes William Woods University unique for equestrian students?
William Woods has built a nationally recognized equestrian studies program that sets it apart from other small liberal arts colleges. The university attracts students from across the country who want to combine academic study with serious horse training. With 63.62% of students being women, the gender balance reflects the program's appeal to female equestrians seeking both athletic and academic excellence.
