Widener University
Chester, United States • Founded 1862
Updated Jun 2026
Overview
Established in 1862, the Widener University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large town of Chester (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Pennsylvania.
This institution also has branch campuses in Harrisburg, Exton and Wilmington. Officially accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Widener University is a small-sized coeducational US higher education institution.
Widener University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 162-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.
The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. Widener University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Widener University's physical location and the contact details prospective students typically need before applying or visiting. Channels listed below come from the institution's published profile.
Academic Details
Widener University's institutional metrics — useful for sizing it against other shortlisted universities. The proportion of academic staff with doctorates correlates with research output and graduate-school admissions.
Programs Offered
The programme finder below covers every degree Widener University currently offers. Programme codes here often map to international classification systems used for credential recognition abroad.
146 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 56 programmes
Showing 10 of 56.
Master's Degree 42 programmes
Showing 10 of 42.
Doctorate 14 programmes
Showing 10 of 14.
Professional Doctorate 3 programmes
Associate's Degree 9 programmes
Certificate 8 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 14 programmes
Showing 10 of 14.
How to apply to Widener University
Five steps that capture how most applications to Widener University flow, from research through submission to follow-up correspondence.
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1
Browse the programme catalogue
Use the programme finder to browse Widener University's 146 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
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2
Check eligibility for your chosen programme
Programme-level requirements at Widener University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
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3
Get your documents ready
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
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4
Apply through the official channel
Widener University processes applications through www.widener.edu. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
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5
Reach out and track your application
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (888) 943 3637. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Widener University
Below are the key facts most prospective students ask about Widener University, drawn directly from institutional records.
When was Widener University founded?
Widener University was established in 1862 (approximately 164 years ago).
Where can I find Widener University?
The institution is located in Chester, United States.
What is Widener University's control type?
Widener University is a private institution.
How many students does Widener University have?
The institution has a student body of 2,951.
Who recognises Widener University?
Yes, Widener University is recognised by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
What is Widener University's official website?
Widener University's official website is www.widener.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Research output among the United States's top universities sets the publication-and-citation upper bound. Comparing Widener University's research output to this benchmark gives a fair institutional read.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Below: other National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) member institutions, alongside Widener University.
Faculties at nearby universities
Below are universities in the same area as Widener University.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Below: other the United States universities that offer Education & Teaching programmes.
Universities Compared with Widener University
Below are universities sometimes compared with Widener University.
Studying in United States: guides and resources
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