Widener University
Chester, PA
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Widener University
From historic military college to a vibrant, comprehensive university experience.
Nestled in Chester, Pennsylvania, Widener University is a dynamic private institution with a rich history and a forward-looking approach to education. Offering a diverse array of associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across fields like liberal arts, business, engineering, nursing, and health sciences, Widener empowers students to achieve their academic and professional goals. The university's motto, "Mens Sana In Corpore Sano" (Sound Mind in Sound Body), embodies its commitment to holistic development and student success.
Widener's roots trace back to 1821 as The Bullock School for Boys, embarking on a remarkable journey of evolution. It gained prominence as the Pennsylvania Military College (PMC), a distinguished senior military college. This historic period saw PMC become the nation's first school to host a U.S. Army detail and receive federal arms for training in 1869, showcasing a pioneering spirit. The institution's esteemed reputation even caught the attention of "American March King" John Philip Sousa, who dedicated a march, "The Dauntless Battalion," to PMC in 1923, celebrating its legacy of discipline and leadership.
The university underwent a transformative period, evolving into PMC Colleges in 1966 with the introduction of co-educational and non-military curricula, alongside graduate programs. In 1972, it was renamed Widener College, honoring Eleanor Elkins Widener, a significant benefactor. This pivotal change marked its transition into a comprehensive academic powerhouse. By 1979, Widener College officially became Widener University, a testament to its broad and extensive educational offerings, including its two distinct law schools, providing an enriching and diverse environment for today's students.
Key Highlights
- ✦Established in 1821, Widener University boasts over two centuries of educational heritage, including its distinguished past as Pennsylvania Military College.
- ✦Offers more than 80 programs of study, spanning associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in diverse fields such as liberal arts, engineering, nursing, and law.
- ✦Home to two distinct legal institutions: Widener Law School in Delaware and Widener University Commonwealth Law School in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
- ✦Serves over 6,400 students, including approximately 3,200 undergraduates, fostering a vibrant and supportive learning community on its 108-acre urban campus.
- ✦Pioneering institution recognized in 1869 as the first school to host a U.S. Army detail and receive federal arms for training.
- ✦Honored by "American March King" John Philip Sousa, who dedicated "The Dauntless Battalion" march to PMC (Pennsylvania Military College) in 1923.
- ✦Features an endowment of $122.3 million (2025), supporting its academic mission and enriching the student experience.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
2 notable schools within Widener University
Widener Law School
Offers legal education from its campus in Wilmington, Delaware.
Widener University Commonwealth Law School
Provides legal studies from its Harrisburg, Pennsylvania campus.
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