Wilkes University

Wilkes University, located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, offers a comprehensive educational experience with a strong emphasis on individualized attention, exceptional teaching, and community engagement. The university aims to prepare students for lifelong learning and success in a diverse and evolving world. It fosters a dynamic learning environment where students are encouraged to actively participate in their education and develop critical thinking skills.

Academics

Wilkes University offers over 50 undergraduate majors and more than 40 graduate degrees and certificates across its College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Engineering, and College of Health and Education. The teaching approach emphasizes hands-on research opportunities, even at the undergraduate level, allowing students to collaborate with faculty on real-world issues. Notable programs include engineering, pharmacy, business, and nursing, with accreditations from bodies like ABET for engineering and AACSB for business. The university also offers multidisciplinary strengths, encouraging students to explore and combine various interests.

International Students

Wilkes University is home to international students from over 23 countries, with a significant representation from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and India. The Office of Global Engagement provides cultural, social, and academic support, including assistance with obtaining the Form I-20 and offering orientation programs and cultural activities. While specific diversity statistics beyond country representation are not detailed, the university emphasizes its commitment to being an inclusive learning environment that celebrates diverse backgrounds. The Intensive English Program (IEP) and University Preparatory Program are available for international students to enhance their English language skills and prepare for university studies. Wilkes also offers a wide range of student clubs, including many representing diverse cultures and faiths, facilitating cultural integration.

Campus & Location

Wilkes University's compact, 35-acre campus blends historic mansions with modern facilities in a downtown Wilkes-Barre neighborhood. Wilkes-Barre offers city life with various dining options and nearby attractions like the Pocono Mountains for recreational activities. On-campus housing options include traditional dorms and apartment-style living in University Towers, which offer kitchens and living areas. The university also has partnerships within downtown Wilkes-Barre, aiming to cultivate these relationships for community improvement.

Career Outcomes

Wilkes University boasts a 98% job placement rate, based on self-reported survey data, and its Center for Career Development and Internships offers career fairs, resume workshops, and networking opportunities. The Brookings Institution ranked Wilkes 14th nationally among private, four-year colleges for improving students' economic standing and income after graduation. Graduates in engineering fields tend to have higher earning potentials, with mechanical engineering graduates earning approximately $61,200 annually. The university has also recently joined the Google AI for Education Accelerator program, providing students with career-focused resources, including Google Career Certificates in in-demand fields like cybersecurity and data analytics, to enhance their marketability.