Wesleyan University is a small, private, liberal arts university, founded in 1831. Intellectual independence, critical thinking skills, and the ability to see the connection between distinct fields of learning are the goals of a Wesleyan education. Students are encouraged to see themselves as scholars, to participate in the exchange of ideas, and to form close working relationships with professors. Wesleyan describes its environment as academically demanding but noncompetitive: one that allows students to find their niche in the classroom, in campus life, and in the wider community. Wesleyan''s 240-acre campus is located 15 miles south of Hartford.