Wofford College has resided on the same campus grounds, developing and strengthening its roots in the soil since 1851. Known for its strong sense of community and true values of southern hospitality, the College has earned a respected reputation for academic dedication and excellence. Providing students with a unique liberal arts education, based on a holistic focus, Wofford College offers both students and alumni continuous support and resources throughout their college years and into their professional endeavors. Many Wofford students pursue the engaging Finance programs offered by the school, as well as Business Management and Biological Sciences.
The College has worked hard over the years to provide a well-rounded education as well as stable career opportunities for students upon graduation. For this reason, Wofford College has established a pristine structure of professional preparation courses, classes and internship programs that helps students to develop the skills needed to take advantage of the long-term job placement opportunities available upon graduating. With dedication in the honor of the founders, Wofford College remains one of the seldom educational facilities in the country that were established Pre-Civil War and has remained in continuous operation.
School History
Bishop William Wightman, was responsible for establishing building the Wofford College campus in the village of Spartanburg in 1851. Flourishing in early 1854 when Reverend Benjamin Woffard left a $100,000 bequest to develop the school, the College incorporated holistic programs to showcase a unique and creative perspective of the liberal arts culture. Developing the minds of young leaders was of the utmost importance to the Reverend, becoming the reason for his endowment for the core foundation of the school.
Wofford College holds several accreditations for the individual programs offered, however, is authorized and accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools for their Bachelor’s programs.
The first classes at Wofford College were held in the Fall semester of 1854. Classes were operated by three teachers on campus and included only seven students. The early curriculum focused on historical literary figures and artists with a strong foundation of science and mathematics to add an eclectic set of skill sets for the students. In 1856, the first Wofford graduate, Samuel Dibble was honored, establishing his career as a future U.S. Congressman. By 1859, after years of dedication, President Wightman resigned from the College, passing the reigns to reverend Albert M. Shipp, most commonly known for his role in helping the College survive through the Civil War.
Campus Life
The majority of Wofford College students reside in newly established Michael S. Brown Village Center, creating a family of students and their peers that work and live together to ensure the ideal college living experience. The Village houses over 450 students, and guarantees housing for senior students. Living on campus provides students with a beneficial environment of support, guidance and intellectually stimulating activities and entertainment resources to utilize in between classes. Students can enjoy spacious 4 bedroom apartments that are equipped with two bathrooms, furnished kitchen and dining rooms as well as balcony and porch access. All housing facilities are enabled with cable and high speed internet access, as well as telephone service to keep in touch with friends and family.
Wofford College students often enjoy spending time at the Arboretum located on campus for quality study escapes and recreational nature walks. The campus grounds offer plenty of historical landmarks that many students take advantage of during their down time. Throughout the year, there are many special events, live performances and activities held on campus by the various student organizations and activists groups. Upholding old traditions and helping students find resources to create new traditions enables the student body to develop their leadership skills and experiences while leaving their legacy within the campus grounds.
To ensure the safety of all students, Wofford College offers a detailed campus map and directory that is available to all students, helping them navigate around campus easily. Many students utilize the Campus Calendar as well to ensure they do not miss out on any of the festivities that take place around campus. Since many of the students travel off-campus together to enjoy the scenery and attractions, Wofford also offers an Off-Campus Group Coordinator to ensure safety on and off campus grounds.
Financial Aid
Each year, Wofford College secures a substantial amount of private funding through donations, endowments and grants to provide students with a solid education at the most convenient cost possible. Finding the proper financial aid funding is vital to the success of each student. Financial Aid Advisors are dedicated to providing students with the attention and sincerity they need to explore funding options and choose the best selection. All students are encouraged to apply to as many funding options as possible to ensure consistent and well-optimized scheduling, as many of the popular classes and time slots get filled quickly during registration.
Wofford College accepts all forms of funding and third party scholarship awards to help students transition into college life. Upon admission, students are considered for several merit-based scholarships, grants and monetary awards that are based on need, academic achievement and high school standings. Placement testing upon admission can also increase the chances of students to secure private funding based on artistic and athletic talent as well. Whether financial aid is obtained, all students are offered the opportunity to participate in the work study program that secures employment on and off-campus during the school year.
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