Wilkes University | Wilkes Barre

Wilkes University is a private, coeducational university located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Established originally in 1933 as a satellite campus of Bucknell University, it became an independent college in 1947 and later achieved university status in January 1990. Over the decades, Wilkes University has grown into a respected institution offering a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, blending academic rigor with community engagement.

History and Development

Founded: 1933 (as Bucknell’s Wilkes-Barre campus)

Independent: 1947, becoming Wilkes College

University Status: Achieved in 1990, reflecting expanded academic offerings and graduate programs

The university has evolved from its modest beginnings into a comprehensive institution serving thousands of students each year, with a strong commitment to both academic excellence and practical experience.

Campus and Location

Wilkes University occupies a 35-acre campus nestled in the historic downtown district of Wilkes-Barre. The campus uniquely combines stately historic mansions with modern academic buildings and facilities, creating an inviting and picturesque environment.

Campus Setting: Urban, with easy access to cultural, recreational, and natural attractions such as River Common Park and the nearby Pocono Mountains.

Facilities: Modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, athletic facilities, residence halls, and student centers.

Community Integration: The university’s downtown location fosters strong ties with local businesses, government offices, and cultural institutions, enhancing opportunities for internships, service learning, and community engagement.

Academics

Wilkes University offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs across several schools and disciplines:

Colleges and Schools:

College of Arts and Sciences

School of Business

School of Engineering and Engineering Technology

School of Nursing and Health Sciences

Graduate Studies

Popular Programs: Business, Engineering, Nursing, Education, Public History, Psychology, and Digital Media.

Unique Programs: The Public History program is particularly notable for combining history with community involvement, material culture studies, and digital media skills, enabling students to work directly with local museums, archives, and historic sites.

Academic Calendar: Semester system, offering flexibility and diverse course options.

Student Body

Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 2,245 students

Graduate Enrollment: Approximately 2,254 students

Student-Faculty Ratio: Small class sizes encourage personalized attention and mentoring.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition and Fees: Around $43,496 per academic year

Financial Aid: About 96% of first-time, full-time students receive some form of financial aid.

Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships range from $8,000 to $19,000 annually; transfer students are also eligible for scholarships ranging from $9,000 to $16,000 per year.

The university strives to make education affordable through a combination of grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities.

Athletics and Campus Life

Wilkes University fields 23 varsity sports teams competing in NCAA Division III as a member of the Landmark Conference. The university supports over 500 student-athletes and encourages active participation in athletics alongside academics.

Sports: Include basketball, soccer, lacrosse, swimming, baseball, softball, and more.

Clubs and Organizations: Over 80 student clubs and organizations provide a vibrant social and cultural campus environment.

Events: Campus activities include cultural programs, leadership development, community service projects, and social gatherings.

Support for International Students

Wilkes University offers a highly regarded Intensive English Program (IEP) designed to help non-native English speakers develop language proficiency and prepare for academic success. The program runs year-round and is recognized among the top in the United States for English language training.

Community Engagement and Career Preparation

The university emphasizes experiential learning through internships, cooperative education, research projects, and community service. Its downtown location and partnerships with local organizations facilitate valuable real-world experiences for students.

Career services provide students with resources including resume workshops, job fairs, networking events, and alumni connections, helping graduates transition smoothly into their professional lives.

Summary

Wilkes University is a well-rounded, community-focused institution with a rich history and a strong academic reputation. It offers students a blend of rigorous education, cultural enrichment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, all within a scenic and historic urban campus. The university’s commitment to small class sizes, personalized learning, and hands-on experiences makes it a notable choice for students in Northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond.