Divine Word University | Courses Offered | Tuition Fees 2026
General Information
Reviews
Divine Word University is widely recognized as one of Papua New Guinea’s most reputable private higher education institutions, particularly respected for its strong emphasis on ethics, communication, leadership, and community-oriented education. Reviews from students and alumni frequently highlight the university’s disciplined academic culture, small class sizes, and close interaction between faculty and students. Many learners describe the academic experience as rigorous yet supportive, noting that lecturers are approachable and committed to mentoring students beyond classroom instruction. The institution’s faith-based foundation is often mentioned positively, with reviewers emphasizing its role in promoting moral responsibility, social justice, and intercultural understanding in a diverse national context. Programs in journalism, education, business, information systems, and health sciences are commonly praised for their practical orientation and relevance to national development needs. Some reviews point out limitations in infrastructure expansion and advanced research facilities, reflecting broader regional challenges, yet these concerns are typically balanced by appreciation for ongoing campus improvements and strong academic governance. Overall sentiment portrays the university as a values-driven institution that prioritizes character formation, professional competence, and service to society, making it an attractive choice for students seeking a holistic and purpose-oriented university education.
Contact Informations
The university is located in Madang Province, Papua New Guinea, serving as a major academic center for the northern coastal region and the country at large. Address: Divine Word University, P.O. Box 483, Madang, Papua New Guinea. Phone Number: +675 422 2937. Email Address: info@dwu.ac.pg. Administrative offices coordinate admissions, academic affairs, finance, and student services through centralized systems operating during standard weekday hours. Communication with faculties and departments is conducted through official institutional channels to ensure consistency and accountability. The campus setting offers a structured and secure learning environment, with accessibility for students from various provinces. The institution also maintains outreach and partnership activities with churches, non-governmental organizations, and public agencies, reinforcing its national presence and educational mission.
School Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1996 |
| Institution Type | Private Catholic University |
| Motto | Knowledge for Service |
| Location | Madang, Papua New Guinea |
| Academic Calendar | Semester System |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Religious Affiliation | Roman Catholic |
| Accreditation | Papua New Guinea Department of Higher Education |
Divine Word University Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position |
|---|---|
| National Ranking (Papua New Guinea) | Top 5 |
| Regional Ranking (Pacific Region) | Top 40 |
| Global Ranking | Top 7,500 |
Divine Word University Academics
Divine Word University Faculties / Departments
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
- Faculty of Business Studies
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Information Systems and Mathematics
- Faculty of Journalism and Communication
- Graduate Studies
Divine Word University Courses Offered and Programs / Majors
- Bachelor of Arts in Social Development
- Bachelor of Business Management
- Bachelor of Education
- Bachelor of Journalism
- Bachelor of Health Sciences
- Bachelor of Information Systems
- Bachelor of Mathematics
- Master’s Programs in Education, Communication, and Business
Online Learning
The university has gradually integrated blended learning approaches to complement its predominantly face-to-face academic model. Online learning platforms are used to distribute lecture materials, host discussions, manage assignments, and support assessments, particularly for senior undergraduate and postgraduate programs. This approach enhances flexibility for students balancing academic responsibilities with community service, internships, or employment. While fully online degrees are limited, digital learning tools have strengthened academic continuity and resource accessibility. Summer school sessions are available for selected courses, allowing students to accelerate program completion or retake required units. Degrees are awarded based on formal credit accumulation and assessment processes aligned with national academic standards. The integration of online learning is viewed as a strategic enhancement rather than a replacement of the university’s emphasis on personal interaction, ethical formation, and experiential learning.
Average Test Scores
| Exam | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | Not Required |
| ACT | Not Required |
| GRE | Program-Specific |
| National Entrance Exam | Required |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Retention rates are considered solid, supported by structured academic advising, pastoral care, and student mentoring programs. Graduation rates reflect consistent academic progression, particularly in programs with clearly defined curriculum pathways and strong faculty oversight.
Divine Word University Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admissions decisions are primarily based on national secondary school examination results, subject prerequisites, and institutional entrance assessments. International standardized tests such as SAT or ACT are generally not required.
Divine Word University Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance Rate | Approximately 62% |
Divine Word University Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit a completed application form, certified academic transcripts, proof of secondary or prior tertiary education, and valid identification documents. Certain programs may require interviews, aptitude assessments, or prerequisite coursework. International applicants must provide authenticated credentials and evidence of English language proficiency. The admissions framework emphasizes academic readiness, ethical conduct, and alignment with the institution’s mission of service-oriented education, ensuring that admitted students are prepared for both academic rigor and community engagement responsibilities.
Application Process
- Complete and submit application form
- Provide academic transcripts and certificates
- Sit for entrance assessment if required
- Attend interview if applicable
- Receive admission decision
- Confirm enrollment
Divine Word University Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Intake | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Main Intake | July 31 |
| Supplemental Intake | January 31 |
Essay Prompt
Some programs may require a personal essay addressing academic motivation, leadership aspirations, and commitment to community service, particularly for competitive or postgraduate admissions.
Divine Word University Scholarships
Scholarship opportunities include merit-based awards, need-based financial aid, church-sponsored assistance, and limited donor-funded grants designed to promote access and academic excellence.
Divine Word University Tuition Fees
| Program Level | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | USD 1,100 – 1,800 |
| Postgraduate | USD 1,800 – 3,000 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
The student population demonstrates balanced gender representation, with most students between 18 and 28 years old. Students originate from diverse provinces across Papua New Guinea, reflecting broad ethnic and cultural representation.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
A significant proportion of students come from low- to middle-income households. Financial assistance, flexible payment plans, counseling services, and basic accessibility accommodations support students with disabilities and economic challenges.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 3,200 |
| International Students | About 5% |
| Undergraduate Students | Majority |
| Postgraduate Students | Growing |
University Diversity
Diversity is a defining strength, shaped by linguistic, cultural, and regional representation. The campus promotes inclusion through intercultural dialogue, faith-based initiatives, and community engagement programs that encourage mutual respect and collaboration.
Average Earnings
Graduates commonly pursue careers in education, media, healthcare, business, government, and non-governmental organizations. Early-career earnings align with national labor market standards, with long-term growth potential supported by professional skills and leadership training.
Divine Word University Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The university employs qualified faculty members with advanced degrees and professional experience, supported by administrative and support staff dedicated to academic delivery and student welfare.
Faculty Profiles
Academic staff possess expertise in journalism, education, health sciences, business, information systems, and social sciences. Many faculty members are actively involved in research, media practice, policy advisory roles, and community development initiatives.
Divine Word University Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Campus life is centered on a residential academic environment that emphasizes discipline, community living, and personal development. On-campus housing is available at moderate cost, complemented by nearby off-campus options.
Transportation
The campus is accessible via local road networks and public transportation within Madang. On-campus mobility is primarily pedestrian-based, supported by a secure and organized campus layout.
Job Openings
Employment opportunities are periodically available for academic, administrative, and technical staff, supporting institutional growth and academic expansion.