Wilson-a coeducational liberal arts college-provides a rigorous academic program with small classes that give students the opportunity to work closely with faculty in a collaborative environment that encourages students to push themselves and to succeed.
The College strives to create an open, welcoming community where relationships formed with classmates and professors can endure throughout their lifetime. Curiosity and enthusiasm to take advantage of all that Wilson offers are essential in preparing students to make a difference in their careers and in their communities.
All Wilson students, faculty and staff adhere to the school's honor principle, which creates a community where personal responsibility and individual success, both in and out of the classroom, are highly valued. Wilson's traditions serve as bonds that join the community together. From Convocation to Commencement, they are an important part of every student's experience.
The College-founded in 1869-is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, but is open to students of all religions and faiths. The student body in fall 2013 was 746, representing 23 states and 13 foreign countries. Wilson's student-to-faculty ratio is 10-to-1.
About
From the School
Contact & Visit
Campus Visits Contact
Contact
Nancy Myers
Admissions Administrative Assistant
Admissions Administrative Assistant
Address
Office of Admissions
1015 Philadelphia Avenue
Chambersburg, PA 17201
1015 Philadelphia Avenue
Chambersburg, PA 17201
Phone
717-262-2002
Email
admissions@wilson.edu
Experience College Life
Most Popular Places On Campus
Penn Hall Equestrian Center
Helen M. Beach '24 Veterinary Medical Center
Complex for Science, Math & Technology
Prentis Hall Women with Children Residence
Lenfest Commons with Fitness Center and Coffee House
Helen M. Beach '24 Veterinary Medical Center
Complex for Science, Math & Technology
Prentis Hall Women with Children Residence
Lenfest Commons with Fitness Center and Coffee House
Most Popular Places Off Campus
Historic Gettysburg, PA and Civil War Museum
Appalachian Trail
Prime Outlets Mall
Lancaster and Amish Country
Army War College and Museum
Appalachian Trail
Prime Outlets Mall
Lancaster and Amish Country
Army War College and Museum
Campus Tours
Campus Visiting Center
M-F
10, 11, 1, 2 and 3
717-262-2002
10, 11, 1, 2 and 3
717-262-2002
Campus Tours
Appointment Required: Yes
Dates: Year-round
Times: 10, 11, 1, 2 and 3
Average Length: 2 hours
Dates: Year-round
Times: 10, 11, 1, 2 and 3
Average Length: 2 hours
On Campus Interview
Campus Interviews
Yes
Information Sessions
Available
Times
during Open House events
Faculty and Coach Visits
Dates/Times Available
Year-round
Arrangements
Contact Admissions Office
Advance Notice
1 week
Contact Email Address for Visit
athletics@wilson.edu
Class Visits
Dates/Times Available
Academic Year
Arrangements
Contact Admissions Office
Overnight Dorm Stays
Overnight Dorm Stays
Available
Arrangements
Contact Admissions Office
Limitations
Pending Availability of Hostesses
Transportation
Types of Transportation Available to Campus
The Harrisburg International Airport (HIA), Amtrak Train Station and Greyhound Bus Terminal are located 50 minutes North of Chambersburg in Harrisburg, PA. BWI Airport is approximately 90 miles away. Greyhound of Harrisburg has daily runs to Chambersburg. Chambersburg Transit Authority offers a trolley system to popular destinations in and around Chambersburg.
Driving Instructions to Campus
From the North: Follow I-81 South. Take exit 17 in Pennsylvania (Walker Road). Turn right and proceed to first light. Turn rignt onto Norland Avenue and continue to Scotland Avenue. Turn left onto Scotland Avenue and continue to Park Avenue. Turn right onto Park Avenue and proceed to second stop sign. Enter campus.
From the South: Follow I-81 North. Take exit 17 in Pennsylvania (Walker Road). Turn left and proceed to light. Turn right onto Norland Avenue and continue until Scotland Avenue. Turn left onto Scotland and continue until Park Avenue. Turn right onto Park Avenue and proceed to second stop sign. Enter campus.
From the West: Follow I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) East. Take Exit 189 (Old exit 14, Willow Hill). Follow Route 75 South toward Fort Loudon. Then follow Route 30 East to Route 11 North in Chambersburg. Follow Route 11 North in the right lane for about two miles. The main entrance to the campus is marked by stone pillars.
From the East: Follow I-76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) West. Take Exit 226 (old exit 16, Carlisle/I-81) Follow I-81 South. Take Exit 16 (Route 30). Follow Route 30 West to Route 11 North in Chambersburg. Follow Route 11 North in the right lane for about two miles. The main entrance of the campus is marked by stone pillars.
Local Accommodations
Best Western (211 Walker Road; 800-528-1234); Comfort Inn (3301 Black Gap Road; 800-228-5150); Fairfield Inn by Marriott (1122 Wayne Road, 800-228-2800); Four Points Hotel by Sheraton (1123 Lincoln Way East, 800-325-3535); Hampton Inn (955 Lesher Road, 800-426-7866); Quality Inn and Suites (1095 Wayne Avenue, 800-228-5151); Shultz Victorian Mansion BandB (756 Philadelphia Avenue, 717-263-3371).
Save SchoolAdmissions
Overall
From The School
High school students may apply at the beginning of their senior year. High school graduates can apply for admission within a year of their intended semester of enrollment. Wilson operates under a rolling admissions policy, which means the admissions office will review student applications as soon as all the required documents are received.
Wilson seeks students who have completed a college preparatory curriculum that includes four units of English, four units of history, three units of math (algebra 1 and 2 and geometry), two units of the same foreign language, and two units of natural science with labs. Students who have at least a 3.0 GPA in a college preparatory curriculum at a regionally accredited high school are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. Each applicant will be assigned an admissions counselor, who will assist them with the application process and continue guiding them until classes begin.
Required application documents include:
Application form, either online or paper, or the common application.
Official high school transcripts.
Official college transcripts (transfer students or dual-enrollment students)
Teacher recommendation
Graded English paper (written for a junior or senior English class)
Official SAT or ACT scores (if not applying as test-optional)
SAT code for Wilson College: 2979 ACT code for Wilson College: 3758 Call or email in advance to schedule a personalized tour, tailored to meet your interests. To apply, go online to wilson.edu or contact an admissions officer by phone at 800-421-8402 or email admissions@wilson.edu.
Wilson seeks students who have completed a college preparatory curriculum that includes four units of English, four units of history, three units of math (algebra 1 and 2 and geometry), two units of the same foreign language, and two units of natural science with labs. Students who have at least a 3.0 GPA in a college preparatory curriculum at a regionally accredited high school are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. Each applicant will be assigned an admissions counselor, who will assist them with the application process and continue guiding them until classes begin.
Required application documents include:
Application form, either online or paper, or the common application.
Official high school transcripts.
Official college transcripts (transfer students or dual-enrollment students)
Teacher recommendation
Graded English paper (written for a junior or senior English class)
Official SAT or ACT scores (if not applying as test-optional)
SAT code for Wilson College: 2979 ACT code for Wilson College: 3758 Call or email in advance to schedule a personalized tour, tailored to meet your interests. To apply, go online to wilson.edu or contact an admissions officer by phone at 800-421-8402 or email admissions@wilson.edu.
Overview
Applicants: 824
Acceptance Rate: 92%
Average HS GPA: 3.51
SAT & ACT Test Scores
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
25th-75th percentile (enrolled students)
490 - 570
SAT Math
25th-75th percentile (enrolled students)
460 - 560
ACT Composite Scores
25th-75th percentile (enrolled students)
17 - 23
Testing Policies
Other Admission Factors
Academic
Rigor of Secondary School Record
Academic GPA
Application Essay
Selectivity Rating
Get a personalized plan for a competitive application from an admissions expert.
Learn MoreAcademics
Academics
Overall
From The School
Academic Programs
Wilson is a member of Phi Beta Kappa, the nation's oldest and most prestigious and academic honorary society.
Wilson is well-known for its distinctive Women with Children Program, one of only a few in the nation, which provides family-friendly on-campus housing year-round to single mothers and their children (20 months and older) so the mother can pursue a bachelor's degree full time.
Wilson offers many academic options beyond the classroom. From interning in Washington, D.C., and pursuing honors classes to studying abroad.
Wilson is well-known for its distinctive Women with Children Program, one of only a few in the nation, which provides family-friendly on-campus housing year-round to single mothers and their children (20 months and older) so the mother can pursue a bachelor's degree full time.
Wilson offers many academic options beyond the classroom. From interning in Washington, D.C., and pursuing honors classes to studying abroad.
Majors and Degrees Offered
Students can earn degrees from 28 majors, 18 areas of concentration and 39 minors. Pre-professional programs are offered in health sciences, law, medicine and veterinary medicine. The most popular majors include business, education, English, veterinary medical technology and equestrian studies. A 3 + 1 option allows students to earn a bachelor's degree and a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in humanities in four years. Wilson also offers a Master of Education (M.Ed.), with a master's degree in accountancy expected to begin fall 2013. In addition, Wilson's Teacher Intern Program (TIP) offers certification for pre-K through 4 education, and secondary education in the areas of biology, chemistry, English, environmental studies, mathematics, social studies and Spanish. The certificate qualifies teachers in 45 states.
Most majors require internships or capstone projects and all majors in the sciences require a three-semester research project. An agreement with Vermont Law School allows qualified Wilson graduates to study environmental law and apply with preference for entrance to the law school.
Most majors require internships or capstone projects and all majors in the sciences require a three-semester research project. An agreement with Vermont Law School allows qualified Wilson graduates to study environmental law and apply with preference for entrance to the law school.
Faculty and Class Information
Student/Faculty
12:1
Total Faculty
152
with Terminal Degree
73
95
Women
57
Men
8
Minority
Most frequent class size
10 - 19
Most frequent lab / sub section size
10 - 19
Graduation Rates
Graduate in 4 years
Graduate in 5 years
Graduate in 6 years
51%
Majors
-
AGRICULTURE, AGRICULTURE OPERATIONS, AND RELATED SCIENCES.
Equestrian/Equine Studies.
-
BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.
-
BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, MARKETING, AND RELATED SUPPORT SERVICES.
Accounting.
Business Administration and Management, General.
Management Information Systems, General.
-
COMMUNICATION, JOURNALISM, AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Journalism, Other.
Mass Communication/Media Studies.
-
EDUCATION.
Elementary Education and Teaching.
-
ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS.
English Language and Literature, General.
-
FOREIGN LANGUAGES, LITERATURES, AND LINGUISTICS.
French Language and Literature.
-
HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
Animal-Assisted Therapy.
Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant.
-
LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES, GENERAL STUDIES AND HUMANITIES.
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
-
MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICS.
Financial Mathematics.
Mathematics, General.
-
MULTI/INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES.
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.
Sustainability Studies.
-
NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION.
Environmental Science.
-
PARKS, RECREATION, LEISURE, AND FITNESS STUDIES.
Kinesiology and Exercise Science.
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.
-
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES.
Philosophy.
Religion/Religious Studies.
-
PHYSICAL SCIENCES.
Chemistry, General.
-
PSYCHOLOGY.
Psychology, General.
-
SOCIAL SCIENCES.
Economics, General.
International Relations and Affairs.
Social Sciences, General.
Sociology.
-
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS.
Art/Art Studies, General.
Degrees
Associate
Bachelor's
Master's
Bachelor's
Master's
Career Services
On-Campus Job Interviews Available
Yes
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Opportunities at School
Internship
Notable Faculty
Prominent Alumni
Marguerite Brooks Lenfest
Entrepreneur
Tracy C. Leskey, Ph.D.
Research Entonmologist, USDA
Susan Breakefield Fulton
Owner/Partner, FBB Capital Partners
Careers
Graduation Rates
Graduate in 4 years
Graduate in 5 years
Graduate in 6 years
51%
Career Services
On-Campus Job Interviews Available
Yes
Career Services
Alumni Network
Alumni Services
Classes
Interest Inventory
Internships
Opportunities at School
Internship
ROI & Outcomes
Tuition & Aid
Tuition & Aid
Overview
From The School
Tuition, Room, Board and Fees
As part of its commitment to affordable education, Wilson College will lower its tuition rate for the 2014-15 academic year to $23,745. The cost of room and board for the 2014-15 academic year will be determined in fall 2013.
For 2013-14, the tuition rate was held at $28,745 for a second year, with room and board set at $10,393.
Wilson guarantees on-campus housing for all four years, with single-room options available. All students are permitted to have cars on campus and laundry facilities are provided free of charge.
For 2013-14, the tuition rate was held at $28,745 for a second year, with room and board set at $10,393.
Wilson guarantees on-campus housing for all four years, with single-room options available. All students are permitted to have cars on campus and laundry facilities are provided free of charge.
Financial Aid
Wilson College awards more than $12 million in aid every year, with 96 percent of students receiving financial assistance. Wilson also awards a variety of scholarships, from those tied to specific majors to competitive scholarships and more. Merit scholarships, based solely on academic performance, are automatically awarded at the point of admission to the college. These renewable scholarships are based upon the applicant's participation in a college preparatory curriculum in a regionally accredited high school and cumulative grade-point average (GPA). The GPA standards apply to transfer students as well.
Wilson Merit Scholarships 2013-14
Scholarship Annual Reduction GPA
Presidential 50% tuition 3.75+
Dean’s 35% tuition 3.5 – 3.74
Faculty 25% tuition 3.25 – 3.49
Wilson Merit Scholarships 2013-14
Scholarship Annual Reduction GPA
Presidential 50% tuition 3.75+
Faculty 25% tuition 3.25 – 3.49
Dates
Application Deadlines
Notification Date
Nov 15
Required Forms
FAFSA
Financial Aid Statistics
Average Freshman Total Need-Based Gift Aid
$10,244
Average Undergraduate Total Need-Based Gift Aid
$11,457
Average Need-Based Loan
$4,946
Undergraduates who have borrowed through any loan program
84%
Average amount of loan debt per graduate
$40,623
Average amount of each freshman scholarship/grant package
$18,623
Financial aid provided to international students
Yes
Expenses per Academic Year
Tuition
$24,450
Required Fees
$850
Average Cost for Books and Supplies
$1,260
Tuition / Fees Vary by Year of Study
No
Board for Commuters
$3,200
Transportation for Commuters
$1,280
On-Campus Room and Board
$11,594
Comprehensive Fee
Available Aid
Financial Aid Methodology
Federal
Scholarships and Grants
Need-Based
Need-Based College/University Scholarship or Grant Aid from Institutional Funds
Need-Based Federal Pell
Need-Based Private Scholarships
Need-Based SEOG
Need-Based State Scholarships
Non-Need-Based
Institutional non-need-based scholarship or grant aid is available
Federal Direct Student Loan Programs
Direct PLUS Loans
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Subsidized Stafford Loans
Direct Unsubsidized Stafford Loans
Federal Family Education Loan Programs (FFEL)
College/university loans from institutional funds
Federal Perkins Loans
Federal Perkins Loans
Is Institutional Employment Available (other than Federal Work Study)
Yes
Direct Lender
No
Student Body
Student Body
Overall
From The School
Students are encouraged to get involved and meet fellow students on campus by joining any of the many clubs and organizations or participating in intercollegiate athletics or equestrian teams. Wilson has something to satisfy the interests and pursuits of most students, but if they can't find what they want, they can take the lead and start a new club.
Three student organizations carry academic credit for participants: Billboard, the student newspaper, the Wilson College Choir and Orchesis, Wilson's acclaimed modern dance troupe. The Wilson College Government Association (WCGA) is jointly responsible for the rules that govern the college campus, and provides leadership opportunities. Students can also participate in internships, such as the Washington Center program, or complete research projects and study abroad.
Wilson College is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III and a member of the North Eastern Athletic Conference (NEAC). By 2014, Wilson plans to offer basketball, cross country and golf for men, and have two additional men's sports in place by 2016. Women's sports include basketball, cross country, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer and softball.
Wilson's hunt seat and western equitation teams compete in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), while the dressage team competes in the Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA). Additional equestrian clubs provide students with the opportunity to participate in the eventing team and the mounted drill team.
Three student organizations carry academic credit for participants: Billboard, the student newspaper, the Wilson College Choir and Orchesis, Wilson's acclaimed modern dance troupe. The Wilson College Government Association (WCGA) is jointly responsible for the rules that govern the college campus, and provides leadership opportunities. Students can also participate in internships, such as the Washington Center program, or complete research projects and study abroad.
Wilson College is part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III and a member of the North Eastern Athletic Conference (NEAC). By 2014, Wilson plans to offer basketball, cross country and golf for men, and have two additional men's sports in place by 2016. Women's sports include basketball, cross country, field hockey, lacrosse, soccer and softball.
Wilson's hunt seat and western equitation teams compete in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA), while the dressage team competes in the Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA). Additional equestrian clubs provide students with the opportunity to participate in the eventing team and the mounted drill team.
Student Body Profile
Total Undergraduate Enrollment
1,044
Foreign Countries Represented
10
Demographics
4.09%
Black
3.85%
Hispanic
61.18%
Caucasian
23.32%
Unknown
4.45%
International
79% female
21% male
23% are out of state
65% are full time
35% are part time
Campus Life
Campus Life
Overview
From The School
Location
Wilson College sits on 300 acres in Chambersburg, Pa., located along Interstate 81, approximately 17 miles from the Maryland border. The campus, with its Collegiate Gothic architecture and beautiful grounds is on the National Register of Historic places.
Wilson can be easily accessed from several major cities and airports. Its campus is 1-hour driving distance from Harrisburg; one and 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C.; 2 hours from Baltimore; 3 hours from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh; and 4 hours from New York City.
Wilson can be easily accessed from several major cities and airports. Its campus is 1-hour driving distance from Harrisburg; one and 1.5 hours from Washington, D.C.; 2 hours from Baltimore; 3 hours from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh; and 4 hours from New York City.
Campus Facilities & Equipment
With state-of-the-art classroom, laboratory and research spaces, the Harry R. Brooks Complex for Science, Mathematics and Technology enhances the College's strengths in the sciences at the undergraduate level. The Wilson campus also includes the Fulton Center for Sustainable Living with its organic farm, the Penn Hall Equestrian Center, and the Hankey Center for the Education and Advancement of Women.
Wilson's exceptional Penn Hall Equestrian Center serves as the base for equestrian programs and includes two indoor riding arenas featuring shadowless lighting and sand/sawdust footing. The center also houses an outdoor arena with racetrack sand footing, three pristine barns with 72 stalls, 20 acres of fenced paddocks and pastures, and plenty of space for outdoor riding. Horse boarding is available.
The Fulton Center for Sustainable Living, with its active CSA (community-supported agriculture) program and organic farm, provides options for students in environmental majors or those who are interested in sustainable practices. The center provides internships, service learning and volunteer opportunities.
Wilson will begin a campus renovation in the coming year, starting with a new student center space (scheduled to be completed during the 2013-14 academic year) and updated residence halls. The College is also in the planning stages for a new library with a learning commons that will serve as a hub for academic life on campus.
Wilson's exceptional Penn Hall Equestrian Center serves as the base for equestrian programs and includes two indoor riding arenas featuring shadowless lighting and sand/sawdust footing. The center also houses an outdoor arena with racetrack sand footing, three pristine barns with 72 stalls, 20 acres of fenced paddocks and pastures, and plenty of space for outdoor riding. Horse boarding is available.
The Fulton Center for Sustainable Living, with its active CSA (community-supported agriculture) program and organic farm, provides options for students in environmental majors or those who are interested in sustainable practices. The center provides internships, service learning and volunteer opportunities.
Wilson will begin a campus renovation in the coming year, starting with a new student center space (scheduled to be completed during the 2013-14 academic year) and updated residence halls. The College is also in the planning stages for a new library with a learning commons that will serve as a hub for academic life on campus.
Off-Campus Opportunities
Downtown Chambersburg is within walking distance of campus. Students display their artwork in town, take music lesson from the Cumberland Valley School of Music on campus and volunteer in community organizations. Wilson's cultural events and enrichment programs are resources to the local and regional communities. Students can take advantage of nearby parks and recreation areas, such as Caledonia State Park, part of the Appalachian trail. Wilson is within an easy travel distance to Baltimore, Washington, DC, Philadelphia, New York City and historic Gettysburg.
Campus Life
Undergrads living on campus
47%
Help finding off-campus housing
No
First-Year Students living on campus
79%
Campus Environment
Village
87/99
Housing Options
Dorms Coed
Dorms Female
Dorms Female
Dorms Male
Other
Theme Housing
Other
Theme Housing
Special Needs Admissions
College Entrance Tests Required
No
Interview Required
No
Special Need Services Offered
Student Activities
Registered Student Organizations
42
Number of Honor Societies
2
Number of Social Sororities
0
Number of Religious Organizations
3
Sports
Athletic Division
Division III
Men's Sports ()
0 Sports
Women's Sports (Wilson College)
7 Sports
Basketball
Field Hockey
Gymnastics
Lacrosse
Soccer
Softball
Tennis
Field Hockey
Gymnastics
Lacrosse
Soccer
Softball
Tennis
Student Services
Day Care
Health
Army ROTC Offered at cooperating institutions: Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
Health
LGBT Support Groups: Allies Organization
Minority Support Groups: Black Student Union
Muhibbah International Club
Foreign Language Association
Army ROTC Offered at cooperating institutions: Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
Sustainability
64/99
Campus Security Report
Campus Security Report
The Jeanne Clery Act requires colleges and universities to disclose their security policies, keep a public crime log, publish an annual crime report and provide timely warnings to students and campus employees about a crime posing an immediate or ongoing threat to students and campus employees.
Please visit The Princeton Review’s page on campus safety for additional resources: http://www.princetonreview.com/safety
The Princeton Review publishes links directly to each school's Campus Security Reports where available. Applicants can also access all school-specific campus safety information using the Campus Safety and Security Data Analysis Cutting Tool provided by the Office of Postsecondary Education of the U.S. Department of Education: https://ope.ed.gov/campussafety/#/
Other Information
Campus-wide Internet Network
Yes
% of Classrooms with Wireless Internet
100
Fee for Network Use
Yes
Partnerships with Technology Companies
No
Personal computer included in tuition for each student
No
Discounts Available with Hardware Vendors
Yes
Description
Dell Student Program
AICUP Discount Program
