Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
| Location | Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania |
| Online | wilkes.edu |
| School Type | Private 4 Year |
| Setting | Small City |
| Size | Small |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
Wilkes University, established in 1933, is a private institution located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, resting in the heart of the Susquehanna Valley, primarily a suburban setting with proximity to the urban offerings of Scranton about 20 miles away. Known for its intimate campus adorned with a mix of classic and modern architectural styles, the university provides a conducive learning environment across its approximately 35-acre footprint. Wilkes offers a variety of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs with a notable emphasis on pharmacy, nursing, and engineering. While the university has a more inclusive acceptance rate, it maintains a commitment to academic rigor across its diverse range of disciplines. On-campus housing is available to students, with a range of living options designed to suit different preferences and needs. Athletic offerings are centered around NCAA Division III sports, with teams known as the Colonels, although the university is not primarily recognized for its athletic dominance. Wilkes University's educational profile is marked by its strong emphasis on the liberal arts and sciences, fostering a multifaceted academic experience.
In the most recent statistical year 4,798 prospective students applied, and 4,517 were granted admission. Of those admitted 478 enrolled in the school. 2,338 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 2,869 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $39,134 plus fees of $1,978. Wilkes is ranked 478 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
Wilkes is rated within the top 45% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 6 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Wilkes University within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#478 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#333 in Best Private Colleges in the U.S.
#37 in Best Colleges in Pennsylvania
#35 in Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania
#466 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#41 in Best Value Colleges in Pennsylvania
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1060/1260 |
| ACT | 21/26 |
| GPA | 3.56 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | - |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $40 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,600 |
| Other Fees | $1,978 |
| Room and Board | $15,850 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $3,193 |
| Total One Year Cost | $61,755 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 18% |
| Liberal Arts and Humanities | 13% |
| Health Professions | 11% |
| Engineering | 11% |
| Communication | 8% |
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Questions and Answers
CollegeSimply Advisor posts about Wilkes University.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=216931 IPEDS survey data for Wilkes University.
Current students may use the Wilkes University GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.
Last updated February 24, 2024