Acceptance Rate
71%
Avg. SAT
1290
75th percentile
“Widener University blends hands-on learning with a tight-knit community in the heart of Chester, Pennsylvania.”
Chester, PA
Location
Large Suburb
Campus Setting
Nestled in Chester, Pennsylvania, just 20 minutes south of Philadelphia, Widener University carries a legacy of practical education dating back to its founding in 1821 as a preparatory school for boys. It evolved over the centuries, becoming a university in 1979, and today stands as a private institution with a mission to prepare students for real-world challenges through experiential learning. Widener’s identity is rooted in its commitment to civic engagement and professional readiness, making it a place where students are encouraged to think beyond the classroom and dive into community impact projects. You’ll find a campus that feels personal and connected, with under 3,000 undergraduates fostering a sense of belonging.
The surrounding area of Chester presents a mix of urban grit and historical depth, offering access to Philly’s cultural and career opportunities while maintaining a distinct small-city vibe. This location suits students who appreciate a quieter campus base with big-city resources nearby, but it’s worth noting that Chester itself faces economic challenges, which can limit off-campus amenities compared to more affluent college towns. Widener draws students who are self-motivated, eager to apply their learning in practical settings, and comfortable in a close community—those seeking a massive, bustling campus or a polished suburban setting might feel out of place here.
The university’s personality shines through its emphasis on service and collaboration, often reflected in initiatives like the Widener Partnership Charter School, run by the university to support local education. If you’re someone who values mentorship and real-world impact over flashy facilities, Widener’s unassuming charm could be a perfect match. Just be prepared for a campus that prioritizes substance over spectacle, with facilities that are functional but not always cutting-edge.
Photo Gallery
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Widener University carves out its academic niche with a strong focus on professional preparation, particularly in fields like nursing, engineering, and business. The School of Nursing is a standout, known for its rigorous programs and high pass rates on licensure exams, while the engineering school emphasizes hands-on projects through co-op opportunities that let you work in industry before graduation. You can expect a curriculum that ties theory to practice, often through internships, clinical rotations, or service-learning projects woven into your coursework. Class sizes tend to be on the smaller side, especially in upper-level courses, allowing for more direct interaction with professors who often double as mentors.
Research opportunities exist, particularly in applied fields like health sciences, though Widener doesn’t have the expansive research infrastructure of larger universities. The academic culture leans toward collaboration over cutthroat competition, but some popular programs, like nursing, can be demanding with limited spots for clinical placements, requiring strong time management. If you’re looking for a broad liberal arts exploration or highly theoretical study, Widener’s practical bent might feel restrictive—its strength lies in preparing you for a specific career path right out of the gate.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
2,975 undergrad • 2,738 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
59%
Black / African American
19%
Hispanic / Latino
9%
Asian
4%
Other / Multi-racial
10%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Chester, PA
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at Widener University hums with a friendly, down-to-earth energy, where you’re likely to know many of your peers by name thanks to the smaller student body. Social life often revolves around student organizations, athletic events, and community service initiatives, with traditions like the annual Homecoming celebration bringing everyone together for parades and games. You’ll find a decent number of clubs to join, from academic honor societies to cultural groups, though the range might not match what larger schools offer. Residential life plays a big role, with most students living on campus in dorms or university apartments, creating a built-in network of friends.
The social scene is more low-key than party-driven, which suits students who prefer meaningful connections over constant nightlife—though proximity to Philadelphia means you can seek out bigger entertainment if desired. Winters in Pennsylvania can be chilly and gray, something to consider if you’re not used to cold weather, and the cost of living off-campus in the Philly metro area can add up quickly if you choose to move out. Overall, Widener offers a supportive, community-focused experience, but if you crave a high-energy, urban campus vibe 24/7, you might find it a bit quiet.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Middle Atlantic Conferences
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
No
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
Net Annual Cost by Household Income
Household Income
Avg. Net Cost
$0 – $30K
$17,906
$30K – $48K
$20,244
$48K – $75K
$23,246
$75K – $110K
$23,486
$110K+
$26,217
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
78%
4 Years Graduation Rate
67%
6 Years Graduation Rate
69%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$70,920
78% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Widener University and return in the fall. 67% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 69% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
67%
4-6 years
2%
Non-grad
31%
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Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$50,624
Acceptance
71%
Undergrads
2,975
4-Year Grad Rate
67%
Endowment
$72M
Chester, PA 19013-5792
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