About Wilson College
The financial picture requires careful consideration, especially given Wilson's unique student outcomes. Students pay an average net price of $21,241 after aid, but graduates face a median debt load of $26,328. Ten years after graduation, the median earnings reach $43,326, which struggles to keep pace with the monthly loan payments of $279. The 51% graduation rate signals that many students struggle to complete their degrees within six years.
Wilson's student body reflects an unusual demographic makeup that shapes campus culture daily. Women comprise over 80% of enrollment, creating a distinctly female-centered environment. The college's 14 Division III sports teams compete in the United East Conference, with 230 student-athletes representing nearly one-third of the entire student body. This athletic participation rate far exceeds most liberal arts colleges of similar size.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 12:1
- Full-Time Faculty
- 100.0%
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 51.2%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 51.8%
- Retention Rate
- 77.2%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $43,326
- Carnegie Classification
- Master's University (Medium)
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Master | $54,996 |
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians. | Bachelor | $32,391 |
Campus Life
The student body is 81% women, which shapes the campus culture . Wilson is known for its strong equestrian and veterinary programs, so you'll often see students heading to the stables or working with animals. The college fields 14 varsity sports teams with 230 total athletes competing in Division III, giving about 31% of students a chance to play college sports. With a 12:1 student-faculty ratio, expect to know your professors personally. Weekends often revolve around campus activities since you're in a small town setting, though the proximity to larger cities provides escape options when needed.
- Setting
- City-Small
- Housing Capacity
- 467 beds
- Calendar System
- Semester
- Study Abroad
- Available
- Founded
- 1869
Campus Safety (2023)
8 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education
| Offense | On Campus | Residential | Noncampus | Public Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fondling | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Domestic Violence | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Rape | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 22°–36°F
- July Avg
- 64°–84°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 41.7"
- Annual Snowfall
- 31.1"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 19.3%
- Women
- 80.7%
- White
- 77.7%
- Black
- 7.8%
- Hispanic
- 9.1%
- Asian
- 0.5%
- In-State Students
- 58.6%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 26.6%
Location
- Address
- Chambersburg, Pennsylvania 17201-1285
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $43,326
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $48,122
- Mean Earnings (6 years after entry)
- $29,400
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 60.4%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $279/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $26,328
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the acceptance rate at Wilson College?
Wilson College accepts 94.05% of applicants, making it highly accessible to most students. The middle 50% of students score between 970-1120 on the SAT, with an average of 1045. This Presbyterian-affiliated liberal arts college welcomes students who want a supportive academic environment.
How much does Wilson College cost after financial aid?
Students at Wilson College pay an average net price of $21,241 per year after aid is applied. Families earning under $30,000 annually pay just $14,381, while those making $30-48,000 pay even less at $10,250. Graduates typically leave with $26,328 in debt and monthly loan payments of $279.
What is the student-faculty ratio at Wilson College?
Wilson College maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio with just 745 total students enrolled. This small liberal arts environment allows for personalized attention in programs ranging from veterinary medicine to equestrian studies. The college retains 77.21% of first-year students, reflecting strong student-faculty connections.
What are the job prospects after graduating from Wilson College?
Wilson College graduates achieve a 97.2% employment rate after finishing their degrees. Alumni earn a median salary of $43,326 ten years after graduation, with recent graduates starting at $52,435 in their first year. The college's 51.8% six-year graduation rate reflects the challenges many small liberal arts colleges face.
Where is Wilson College located and what is campus life like?
Wilson College sits in the small city of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, housing 467 students in on-campus facilities. The campus serves 745 students who are 80.67% female, creating a unique community atmosphere. Students compete as the Phoenix in 14 NCAA Division III sports with 230 total athletes.
What makes Wilson College's programs unique?
Wilson College stands out for its strong veterinary medicine and equestrian programs, drawing students interested in animal-related careers. Founded in 1869, this Presbyterian institution has built a reputation for hands-on learning in specialized fields. The college's 58.62% in-state student population creates a tight-knit Pennsylvania community focused on practical education.
