How about a journey through time at Westminster University? This private university in Salt Lake City has a rich history. It began as the Salt Lake Collegiate Institute in 1875.
Westminster University has transformed over the years. It first offered college classes in 1897 as Sheldon Jackson College. The college changed its name to Westminster College in 1902. This reflected a more general Protestant education. In 2023, it officially became Westminster University.
Originally located downtown, Westminster University moved in 1911. Its present campus spans 27 acres in the Sugar House neighborhood. Civil War Veteran Colonel William M. Ferry Jr. donated this land. Emigration Creek meanders through the campus adding to its beauty.
Westminster University comprises four schools. These are the School of Arts and Sciences, the Bill and Vieve Gore School of Business, the School of Education and the School of Nursing and Health Sciences.
Westminster University offers a wide array of programs. There are 38 undergraduate majors available. Students can earn BS, BBA, BA and BFA degrees. The university also provides customized majors. Pre-med, pre-law and pre-dental programs are also available. Westminster offers 13 graduate degrees. These include MBA, MAcc, MAT, MEd, DNP, MPH and MSC.
Westminster University emphasizes individualized attention. The graduate programs offer small classes. Faculty members help advance students’ thinking and careers. WestX is a guided program. It helps students explore interests and choose degrees. This helps students turn their college experience into a fulfilling career.
Westminster University is home to the Griffins. These athletic teams compete in NCAA Division II. They are part of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. Many students participate in sports. The Eccles Health Wellness and Athletics Center is a central hub. It has basketball courts, a weight room and a climbing wall.
Westminster University has a vibrant student life. There are over 70 campus clubs and organizations. The school newspaper is “The Forum”. “Ellipsis” is a nationally recognized literary journal.
Many notable alumni have walked these halls at Westminster University. Maude Adams was the first American actress to play Peter Pan on Broadway. Maddie Bowman won an Olympic gold medal in ski halfpipe. Joss Christensen also won Olympic gold in slopestyle. Countless others have gone on to make significant contributions.
Westminster University stands as a testament to education. It embraces change and fosters individual growth. The university motto “Discendo Vita Abundantior” rings true. It signifies that life is made more abundant through learning.