Widener University
Chester, 🇺🇸 United States Private Non-Profit
#266 National #392 THE
#266 National #392 THE
Founded 1821 5,801 students 1% international Suburban $57.2k - $58.3k/yr
About Widener University
Widener University, located in Chester, Pennsylvania, is a private institution with a rich history dating back to 1821. It offers a comprehensive range of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across various fields. Widener is dedicated to fostering the personal and professional growth of its students, providing a supportive and engaging academic environment.
Widener University offers over 60 undergraduate majors and minors, alongside numerous graduate programs, including nationally recognized programs in business, engineering, education, nursing, and law. The university emphasizes a personalized teaching approach with small class sizes, promoting close interaction between students and professors. Notable programs include those in engineering, nursing, and law, with a strong focus on hands-on learning and career preparation.
Widener University actively supports its international student community, which makes up approximately 1% of its total enrollment. The International Student Services (ISS) team provides comprehensive support, including guidance on immigration and visa processes, assistance with acclimating to life in the U.S., and help with cultural integration. While specific English-taught programs are not explicitly detailed as separate tracks, the university generally operates in English, and English proficiency is a requirement for international applicants. Widener embraces diversity, with students from various backgrounds and cultures, fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment through numerous cultural organizations and events.
Widener's main campus is situated in Chester, Pennsylvania, approximately 20 minutes south of Philadelphia. The campus spans 108 acres and features resources such as a museum, observatory, and arboretum. While Chester offers a local experience, the proximity to Philadelphia provides access to a major city's attractions and opportunities, easily accessible by a short train ride. The university also has additional campuses in Wilmington, Delaware, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, primarily for its law schools.
Widener University demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with 96% of the May 2023 graduates achieving a positive career outcome, including employment, graduate education, or military service. The median starting salary for May 2024 graduates was $77,760, with nursing graduates reporting a median of $86,000 and business administration graduates earning around $70,000. The university's Career Design and Development office assists students in transitioning from academia to the professional world. Graduates have secured positions at notable employers such as Deloitte, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Northrop Grumman, and Vanguard.
Academics
Widener University offers over 60 undergraduate majors and minors, alongside numerous graduate programs, including nationally recognized programs in business, engineering, education, nursing, and law. The university emphasizes a personalized teaching approach with small class sizes, promoting close interaction between students and professors. Notable programs include those in engineering, nursing, and law, with a strong focus on hands-on learning and career preparation.
International Students
Widener University actively supports its international student community, which makes up approximately 1% of its total enrollment. The International Student Services (ISS) team provides comprehensive support, including guidance on immigration and visa processes, assistance with acclimating to life in the U.S., and help with cultural integration. While specific English-taught programs are not explicitly detailed as separate tracks, the university generally operates in English, and English proficiency is a requirement for international applicants. Widener embraces diversity, with students from various backgrounds and cultures, fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment through numerous cultural organizations and events.
Campus & Location
Widener's main campus is situated in Chester, Pennsylvania, approximately 20 minutes south of Philadelphia. The campus spans 108 acres and features resources such as a museum, observatory, and arboretum. While Chester offers a local experience, the proximity to Philadelphia provides access to a major city's attractions and opportunities, easily accessible by a short train ride. The university also has additional campuses in Wilmington, Delaware, and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, primarily for its law schools.
Career Outcomes
Widener University demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with 96% of the May 2023 graduates achieving a positive career outcome, including employment, graduate education, or military service. The median starting salary for May 2024 graduates was $77,760, with nursing graduates reporting a median of $86,000 and business administration graduates earning around $70,000. The university's Career Design and Development office assists students in transitioning from academia to the professional world. Graduates have secured positions at notable employers such as Deloitte, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Northrop Grumman, and Vanguard.
Highlights
- Historic institution, founded 1821
- Diverse academic programs
- Strong engineering, nursing, law
- Personalized learning, small classes
- Supportive international student community
- Chester campus near Philadelphia
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available
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Programs Offered at Widener University (7)
Offers programs in:
Bachelor Programs (3)
Bachelor of Arts
Arts & Humanities
Arts & Humanities
international arts & humanities programarts & humanities at Widener Universityarts & humanities in Chesterbachelor's in arts & humanitiesstudy arts & humanities in United States
48 months English Full-time
Scholarships Bachelor of Engineering
STEM
Engineering & Technology
Engineering & Technology
bachelor of engineeringengineering jobsbachelor engineering & technology chesterBS engineering & technologyengineering & technology in united states
48 months English Full-time
Scholarships Bachelor of Science
STEM
Sciences
Sciences
bachelorbachelor'sbachelorssciencesciences
48 months English Full-time
Scholarships Master Programs (3)
Master of Arts
Arts & Humanities
Arts & Humanities
artsarts & humanitiesmastermaster of artsunited states
24 months English Full-time
Scholarships Master of Business Administration
Business & Management
Business Administration
administrationandbusinessbusiness & managementchester
24 months English Full-time
Scholarships Master of Science
STEM
Sciences
Sciences
master's in sciencessciences in Chestergraduate program sciencesstudy sciences in United Statesstudy sciences in Chester
24 months English Full-time
Scholarships PhD Programs (1)
Doctor of Philosophy
STEM
Philosophy
doctor of philosophydoctoraldoctoratephdphilosophy
60 months English Full-time
Scholarships Widener University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
6.5+ IELTS
79+ TOEFL
110+ Duolingo
3+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Open (60%+)
Intakes August, January
Application Deadline Rolling
Tuition (per year) $57.2k - $58.3k/yr
0 Teaching Language English
Student : Faculty 11:1
Accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
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Frequently Asked Questions About Widener University
Common questions from international students considering Widener University.
What is the acceptance rate at Widener University?
Widener University is classified as "Open (60%+)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.
How much does Widener University cost for international students?
Tuition at Widener University ranges from $57.2k - $58.3k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.
What is Widener University ranked globally?
Widener University holds the following rankings: Times Higher Education #392, #266 in United States. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.
What English language requirements does Widener University have?
Widener University typically requires IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 79+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.
Are scholarships available at Widener University?
Yes, Widener University offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.
When does Widener University start its semesters?
Widener University has intakes starting in August, January. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.
How many English-taught programs does Widener University offer?
Widener University offers 7+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.
Where is Widener University located?
Widener University is located in Chester, United States 🇺🇸. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What programs does Widener University offer?
For specific details about Widener University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
Are there scholarships at Widener University?
For specific details about Widener University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
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