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Widener University

Chester, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

2,765
Total Students
$54K
Tuition (In-State)
$54K
Tuition (Out-State)
$30K
Avg Net Price
84%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Graduation Rate
6-year
78%
Retention Rate
Doctoral/Professional Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Widener University

From Military College to Modern University: Widener Shapes Diverse Futures.

Widener University, a private institution nestled in Chester, Pennsylvania, stands as a testament to evolution and academic excellence. Known for its comprehensive academic offerings and a unique, storied history, it provides a vibrant learning environment across six colleges and schools. The university is particularly notable for operating two distinct law schools, extending its reach into Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and Wilmington, Delaware, emphasizing its strong commitment to professional education and broad impact.

The university's journey began modestly in 1821 as the Bullock School for Boys, undergoing several transformations before its most recognized identity as the Pennsylvania Military College (PMC) until 1972. This period established a profound legacy, with PMC distinguishing itself as one of the nation's senior military colleges and receiving federal recognition for its military training. A testament to its unique past, the institution proudly boasts a dedication from the "American March King" John Philip Sousa, who penned "The Dauntless Battalion" for PMC, highlighting its distinguished and influential history.

Today, Widener University offers an expansive array of associate’s, bachelor’s, master's, and doctoral degrees. Its curriculum spans liberal arts, business, engineering, nursing, and various health and human service professional programs, all meticulously designed to equip students for diverse and impactful career paths. With a strong focus on professional development, the university fosters an environment where students can pursue a comprehensive, career-focused education, supported by a history of adaptability and growth. Named in honor of Eleanor Elkins Widener, the university continues its legacy of providing a robust and forward-looking educational experience.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 1821, boasting over two centuries of educational legacy.
  • Evolved from the prestigious Pennsylvania Military College, a former senior military college recognized by the U.S. War Department.
  • Operates two distinct law schools: one in Delaware and the Widener University Commonwealth Law School in Harrisburg, PA.
  • Offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate’s, bachelor’s, master's, and doctoral degrees across liberal arts, business, engineering, nursing, and health sciences.
  • "The Dauntless Battalion" march was composed and dedicated to the college by "American March King" John Philip Sousa in 1923.
  • Enrollment of 6,464 total students, including 3,204 undergraduates, providing a diverse academic community.
  • Boasts an endowment of $122.3 million (as of 2025).

Timeline

1821
Founded as The Bullock School for Boys in Wilmington, Delaware
1862
Incorporated as Chester County Military Academy; moved to West Chester, PA
1892
Known as Pennsylvania Military College (PMC)
1923
John Philip Sousa dedicated 'The Dauntless Battalion' march to PMC
1966
Name changed to PMC Colleges; graduate programs introduced
1967
Female students first enrolled
1972
Renamed Widener College; Corps of Cadets disbanded
1975
Acquired Widener University School of Law
1979
Became Widener University
2015
Widener University School of Law split into two distinct law schools

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Widener University

⚖️

Widener University School of Law (Delaware campus)

One of two distinct law schools, offering comprehensive legal education.

⚖️

Widener University Commonwealth Law School (Harrisburg campus)

The second distinct law school, providing legal studies in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

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