A United Methodist-Related Institution

“The desire of knowledge . . . is intended . . . to raise our thoughts to higher and higher objects more and more worthy of our consideration,till we ascend to the source of all knowledge,and all excellence, the all wise, and all gracious Creator.” — John Wesley, 1703-1791

John Wesley, the namesake of our college and the founder of the Methodist movement, was one of the most educated men of his time. Today’s United Methodist Church was founded in 1968 with the union of The Methodist Church and The Evangelical United Brethren Church and traces its roots to the ministry of John Wesley in England.

A 1727 graduate of Oxford University, Wesley was passionate about the value of education and encouraged people to live with “knowledge and vital piety.”

Inspired by Wesley’s passion, early Kentucky Methodists founded Kentucky Wesleyan College in 1858 “for the promotion of literature, science, morality and religion.”

According to the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church (GBHEM), “United Methodist-related institutions are committed to academic excellence within the context of a caring community where students are both nurtured and challenged to reach their full potential.”

KWC is one of 123 colleges, universities and schools related to the United Methodist Church in America today. We value our rich Methodist heritage and the church’s emphasis on quality education.

We are committed to Christian unity. Through the support of the Kentucky Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, a full-time chaplain coordinates Campus Ministries and serves as a spiritual advisor to the college community. Our Campus Ministries is ecumenical and provides shared opportunities for people of all Christian faiths.

Students who choose to participate in Kentucky Wesleyan College Campus Ministries have opportunities to grow in their faith, connect with others as they serve God together and reach out in acts of service and witness around the world.