Overview
Wilkes University was founded in 1933 as a satellite campus of Bucknell University and became independent as Wilkes College in 1947, later attaining university status in 1990. Originally serving the coal-region community of Wilkes-Barre, the institution has grown into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate programs across business, engineering, sciences, education, nursing, and the arts, emphasizing small class sizes and close faculty mentorship. The Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership, renamed in honor of the former Customers Bancorp CEO and Wilkes alumnus following a significant gift, reflects the university's focus on applied business education and leadership development.
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 | 60% |
| Average starting salary | $52,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $42,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $42,000 |
| Room & board | $14,000 |
| Average financial aid | $27,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 95% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1050-1230 |
| ACT range | 20-26 |
| Average GPA | 3.4 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Business Administration
- Physical Therapy
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.