Overview
Enrollment
Best Colleges Rank
| Location | West Chester, Pennsylvania |
| Online | wcupa.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Large Suburban |
| Size | Mid-size |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
West Chester University of Pennsylvania, located in West Chester, Pennsylvania, is a public university that offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Situated 25 miles west of Philadelphia, the university provides a semi-urban campus setting that complements its historic architecture, with many buildings constructed in the Georgian revival style. Established in 1871, West Chester University has evolved into a comprehensive institution known for its strong programs in business, education, health sciences, and music. The university maintains a moderately selective application process. Student housing is available, with a variety of on-campus living options catering to the needs of the undergraduate population. West Chester University is part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education and serves as an accessible option for students seeking a robust academic experience in proximity to a major metropolitan area.
In the most recent statistical year 14,778 prospective students applied, and 12,982 were granted admission. Of those admitted 3,006 enrolled in the school. 13,579 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 3,696 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $7,716 plus fees of $2,859. WCU is ranked 496 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
WCU is rated within the top 45% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 6 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for West Chester University of Pennsylvania within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#496 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#150 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#40 in Best Colleges in Pennsylvania
#3 in Best Public Colleges in Pennsylvania
#590 in Best Value Colleges in the U.S.
#51 in Best Value Colleges in Pennsylvania
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 1080/1260 |
| ACT | 23/30 |
| GPA | 3.43 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | - |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $45 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Pennsylvania Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Other Fees | $2,859 |
| Room and Board | $14,228 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $2,520 |
| Total One Year Cost | $28,523 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| Other Fees | $2,859 |
| Room and Board | $14,228 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $2,520 |
| Total One Year Cost | $40,097 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Business | 16% |
| Education | 16% |
| Health Professions | 14% |
| English and Literature | 9% |
| Liberal Arts and Humanities | 9% |
Other Colleges to Consider
Students considering WCU are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=216764 IPEDS survey data for West Chester University of Pennsylvania.
Current students may use the West Chester University of Pennsylvania GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.