Dallas Baptist University began as Northwest Texas Baptist College, founded in 1891. The school was originally located in Decatur due to its “healthful and invigorating climate,” as well as for its central location. Wise County citizens donated land as well as an endowment of $15,000 to start the school. The first classes were held in the old Opera House on Decatur’s East Main Street. A new administration building was completed just south of the Decatur courthouse in September 1893.
Three years after the opening of the school, several churches that pledged to support the college financially failed to meet those obligations and the school was sold for $13,000 at auction, In 1897, the Baptist General Convention of Texas purchased the college and lands for $7,000, changing the name to the Decatur Baptist College. The school operated as a church-affiliated coeducational two-year college designed to prepare students for attendance at Baylor University for four-year programs. The school was supported financially by a $20,000 endowment and a $10,000 contribution each year from the Baptist Executive Board as well as fees collected for tuition and board. Private donations also helped support the school.
While in Decatur, the school was known for its strong Christian foundation with students expected to attend church services regularly. Students were required to complete two Bible courses in order to graduate. By 1959, the school began offering additional courses that included business, vocational training and fine arts in addition to religion. Most of the students lived in a 50-mile radius of Decatur during the first few decades of its existence.
By 1958, Decatur had the distinction of being the oldest junior college in the world. In 1965, the school moved to its present location in Dallas and the name of the school changed to Dallas Baptist College. It became a four-year school in 1968. The school gained university status on January 1, 1985.
The mission of DBU is to provide Christ-centered education in arts, sciences and professional studies. The goal is to create service leaders who are able to integrate faith and learning in their chosen profession.
DBU Accreditation
DBU is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Regional accreditation indicates to students, parents and employers that graduates of the university are well-prepared for their chosen careers and will strive for leadership roles in any organization. In addition, specific programs at the university are accredited by the following agencies and associations:
- Accreditation Council for Collegiate Business Schools and Programs
- Commission on English Language Program Accreditation
- National Association of Schools of Music
DBU also holds memberships in many organizations designed to create excellence in higher education.
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DBU Application Requirements
In order to attend DBU as an undergraduate, students must complete either the online application provided by the school or an ApplyTexas application. The school application may be completed online or printed and mailed. Students who have not attended college after high school graduation are considered freshmen. They must provide an official high school diploma that shows class rank and GPA as well as a typewritten personal statement of 250 words that explains why the student wants to attend the university. Official ACT or SAT scores are required as well.
Students who have attended college after high school graduation, even if they have not received credit for those courses, are considered transfer students. Official transcripts from all colleges and universities must be provided. Students who have earned less than 30 credit hours must also provide SAT or ACT scores and an official high school transcript. Students must provide a personal statement of 250 words that explains why they wish to transfer to DBU.
Graduate students must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in order to apply. Each degree program has specific admission requirements so students are encouraged to speak to an admissions counselor before applying.
DBU Tuition and Financial Aid
Undergraduate tuition at DBU is $886 per credit hour. Graduate tuition is $906 per credit hour while doctorate programs are $926 per credit hour.
Financial aid is available. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as well as the DBU Supplemental Application. Financial aid is available in the form of grants, scholarships, loans and work-study programs.
DBU Degree Program(s) Available
Psychology Undergraduate
DBU offers an undergraduate degree in psychology with a Christ-centered approach. Students are provided an overview of psychology as well as in-depth study in various areas to give them a full understanding of this multi-faceted discipline. Courses in counseling as well as technical and research-oriented subjects help prepare students for entry-level positions in business, education and other industries. One course is devoted to the integration of psychology and Christianity.
Master of Arts in Christian Counseling
The Master of Arts in Christian Counseling is a 36-hour graduate program designed to prepare servant leaders who focus on Christian counseling. The program enables students to incorporate biblical principles into their counseling practice and is designed for those who wish to counsel at their local church, in an agency or in organizations that are ministry-based. It is a non-licensure program with a strong focus on theological and counseling techniques. Courses are available online, on campus and in a hybrid version.
Master of Arts in Professional Counseling
Dallas Baptist University offers a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling that prepares students to become Licensed Professional Counselors in Texas. Students are able to provide counseling in a wide range of settings. Because many people are becoming disillusioned with morally neutral counseling approaches, the need for counselors with an understanding of Biblical perspectives is growing. The program offers classes with flexible evening and weekend schedules. Students must be recommended from a staff member or official of the church where they are a member. Students must faithfully attend and hold Jesus Christ to be their Lord and Savior. Students transferring from another college or university must submit an official letter which shows that they are in good standing at their current school.
Master of Education in School Counseling
The Master of Education in School Counseling offers students the framework necessary to work in a school setting offering counseling services to students. It is a 36-hour, non-thesis program that leads to a Professional School Counselor Certificate. It is interdisciplinary, building on prior education and experiences. Through self-appraisals, students are able to monitor their own progress throughout the program. Upon graduation, students will be prepared to sit for the School Counselor Examinations of Teacher Standards. Upon passage of the test and documentation they have completed two years of teaching in a K-12 setting, students are able to apply for the Texas School Counselor Certificate.
DBU offers several degrees in the psychology and counseling fields. Many classes are offered in an online format as well as on weekends and in the evening so that students who may have work, family or social obligations can obtain their higher education goals at Dallas Baptist University