Overview
Wilkes University was founded in 1933 as Bucknell University Junior College and became an independent institution named Wilkes College in 1947, achieving university status in 1990. Located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, the university has built a reputation for its rigorous Nesbitt School of Pharmacy, strong engineering and health sciences programs, and a commitment to experiential, hands-on learning. It emphasizes close faculty-student relationships and has grown from a small regional college into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania |
| Founded | 1933 |
| Total students | 4,300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 85% |
| Graduation rate | 65% |
| Average starting salary | $55,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $42,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $42,000 |
| Room & board | $14,500 |
| Average financial aid | $28,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1030-1220 |
| ACT range | 20-26 |
| Average GPA | 3.40 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Physical Therapy
- Creative Writing (MFA)
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.