Wilson College
Acceptance rate
92.1%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$27,100
$39,396 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
1,379
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
32.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 50.4%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Wilson College, located in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, is a private liberal arts college with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1869. The college is known for its commitment to providing a personalized educational experience, emphasizing small class sizes and a strong faculty-student relationship. This intimate learning environment allows students to engage deeply with their professors and peers, fostering a collaborative and supportive academic atmosphere. Additionally, Wilson College prides itself on its dedication to empowering women through education, as it has a long-standing tradition of promoting female leadership and scholarship.
The college offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in areas such as equine studies, environmental sustainability, and education. Wilson College is also home to a vibrant campus culture, where students are encouraged to participate in various extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and community service. The college's beautiful 300-acre campus provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and engagement with nature, enhancing the overall student experience. Notably, Wilson College has a strong focus on career preparation, with robust internship programs and career services that help students transition successfully into the workforce after graduation.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Wilson College
Wilson College, a private institution, has shown notable trends in several key areas over the past decade. One of the most significant observations is the fluctuation in graduation rates. From a high of approximately 53% for the 150% graduation rate in 2022, the rate dropped to around 49.5% in 2023. This decline, paired with a low on-time graduation rate of 34.6% in 2023, raises concerns about student retention and success, especially given the financial investment students must make.
Speaking of finances, the tuition fees have steadily increased, with the in-state and out-of-state undergraduate tuition rising from around $29,370 in 2014 to $26,200 in 2022, reflecting a trend that can deter prospective students. Interestingly, the tuition for graduate programs has seen a smaller increase, indicating a potential strategic focus on attracting graduate students while navigating the undergraduate market's challenges.
Moreover, the student-to-faculty ratio has slightly increased, from 9:1 in 2013 to 13:1 by 2023. A higher ratio might suggest a decline in personalized attention for students, which could be a factor impacting both retention and graduation rates.
The gender distribution among undergraduates has also shifted, with the percentage of male students rising from about 11.3% in 2013 to roughly 24% in 2021, indicating a more diverse gender representation over the years. However, it's essential for the institution to maintain a balanced environment conducive to all students' academic success.
Overall, while Wilson College has made strides in certain areas, the challenges of increasing tuition, fluctuating graduation rates, and a rising student-to-faculty ratio warrant further investigation and potential strategic adjustments to enhance student experiences and outcomes.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Harrisburg, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), about 70 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Presbyterian Church (USA)
- President
- Dr. Wesley R. Fugate (President)
- Phone
- 7172644141
- City
- Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 1015 Philadelphia Ave, Chambersburg, PA 17201-1285
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 77.9% · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 89.9%, women 93.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Wilson College Admission Trends
The admission data for Wilson College over the years reveals notable trends in both acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Initially, in 2009, the college admitted approximately 41.5% of male applicants and 54.9% of female applicants, indicating a preference for female admissions, which aligns with the institution's focus on women's education. However, a significant drop in female acceptance rates was observed in 2011, plummeting to about 18.6%, showcasing a competitive admission landscape that year.
As we progress through the years, the data indicates a fluctuating admission rate. By 2019, the male acceptance rate surged to an impressive 92.7%, while female acceptance remained high at around 89.9%. This suggests a potential shift in the college's recruitment strategy, perhaps influenced by broader demographic trends in higher education, where institutions strive to balance gender representation.
The enrollment numbers also reflect these trends, with the college admitting a consistent number of students, peaking at 136 in 2022 and 2023. The data shows a steady increase in the number of denied applicants, indicating growing competition for limited spots. This trend aligns with national observations where colleges are experiencing an increase in applications, leading to lower acceptance rates.
Overall, Wilson College's admission data illustrates the complexities of the higher education landscape, with shifting acceptance rates and enrollment figures influenced by both institutional priorities and broader societal trends. As the college continues to adapt, it will be essential to monitor how these patterns evolve in the coming years.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 13% submitted SAT, 0% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Data at Wilson College
The admission data for Wilson College from 2007 to 2023 reveals a notable trend in standardized test scores and the submission rates of these tests over the years. The proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen a decline, with a significant drop from 90% in 2007 to merely 28% in 2023. This shift may suggest a changing perspective among prospective students regarding the importance of standardized testing in their college applications, possibly influenced by broader educational trends emphasizing holistic admissions processes.
Looking at the score ranges, there is a general fluctuation in the 25th to 75th percentile scores for both SAT and ACT over the years. For instance, the SAT reading scores have ranged from a low of 400 to a high of 490 at the 25th percentile, while the 75th percentile has seen scores peak at 620. This indicates a competitive environment where the middle 50% of admitted students have varying academic strengths.
Moreover, the ACT scores reflect a similar pattern, with the composite scores ranging significantly, showcasing a diverse applicant pool. The decline in the number of students submitting scores may reflect a growing trend in colleges to adopt test-optional policies, which have gained traction in recent years, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the conversations surrounding equity in college admissions.
Overall, Wilson College's admission data highlights the evolving landscape of college admissions, where test scores are becoming less central to the decision-making process, fostering an environment that may prioritize other aspects of student applications. This trend aligns with national movements towards more inclusive and equitable admissions practices.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 9 in 10
925 applicants in 2025, 92.1% admitted
852 admitted 73 not admitted Yield 21.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's49 (0% international)
- Educational/Instructional Technology · Master's37 (0% international)
- Education, General · Master's21 (0% international)
- Visual and Performing Arts, General · Master's12 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's7 (0% international)
- Humanities/Humanistic Studies · Master's7 (29% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Wilson College 2023
The graduation data from Wilson College for 2023 reveals significant trends and highlights in various academic disciplines. Notably, the field of Registered Nursing stands out with 46 graduates, indicating a strong demand for healthcare professionals. This aligns with national trends where nursing has been recognized as a critical area, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has emphasized the importance of healthcare services.
In the realm of education, the data shows a notable output in master’s degrees, particularly in Educational/Instructional Technology and General Education, with 40 and 33 graduates respectively. This reflects an increasing focus on educational innovation and technology integration within teaching practices, a trend that has gained momentum as educational institutions adapt to a more digital and hybrid learning environment.
Another interesting observation is the representation of international students in certain fields. Although the numbers are relatively low, the presence of international graduates in disciplines like Business Administration and Registered Nursing highlights the college's appeal to a diverse student body, which is crucial for fostering global perspectives in these critical fields.
Overall, the data reflects a balanced distribution across various fields, with healthcare and education leading the way. This indicates that Wilson College is aligning its academic offerings with market demands while also contributing to essential sectors in society. As industries continue to evolve, ongoing monitoring of graduation trends will remain essential for understanding how educational institutions can best prepare students for future challenges and opportunities.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | $60,563 | |||
| Educational/Instructional Technology. | $66,130 | |||
| Learning Sciences. | - | |||
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | $54,996 | |||
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - | |||
| Physical Education Teaching and Coaching. | - | |||
| Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Nursing Education. | - | |||
| Medical/Health Humanities. | - | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $77,905 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equestrian/Equine Studies. | - | |||
| Animal Sciences, Other. | - | |||
| Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant. | $38,955 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visual and Performing Arts, General. | - | |||
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | - | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | - | |||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - | |||
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - | |||
| Research and Experimental Psychology, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences, General. | - | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | |||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sustainability Studies. | - |
Students
1,907 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 21:79 · Freshman retention 74.5%
- Continuing undergraduates 552
- First-year undergraduates 164
- Graduate students 528
- Transfers and others 663
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,379)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Wilson College in 2023
The demographic composition of Wilson College in 2023 reveals significant trends in student enrollment and diversity. The incoming class of undergraduate freshmen consists of 136 students, with a notable 75% being female. In contrast, the undergraduate upperclassmen show an even higher female representation at 81.9%, while the transfer students and graduate students also exhibit a predominance of females, at 77.8% and 78.9% respectively. This trend indicates a growing emphasis on gender inclusivity within the institution, aligning with broader societal movements toward gender equality in education.
When examining the racial and ethnic breakdown, the majority of undergraduate freshmen (108 students) identify as White. This trend continues among upperclassmen and graduate students, where White students form a significant portion of the student body, suggesting a continued need for initiatives aimed at increasing diversity among racial and ethnic groups.
The data shows that while male representation exists, particularly among the undergraduate freshmen at 25%, it remains lower compared to female counterparts across all categories. This female majority may reflect changing societal norms where more women are pursuing higher education, yet it also poses questions regarding male engagement in academic environments.
Overall, Wilson College's demographic data for 2023 highlights crucial areas for growth, particularly in enhancing racial diversity and addressing the gender disparity in enrollment. As institutions strive to create inclusive environments, understanding these dynamics is essential for fostering a balanced and varied educational community.
Age Distribution of Students at Wilson College in 2023
The age composition of students at Wilson College in 2023 reveals some interesting trends and insights into the demographics of higher education. Notably, the largest group of undergraduates consists of individuals aged 18-19, with 175 female students and 51 male students, indicating that the college attracts a significant number of traditional-age students right after high school.
Additionally, the 20-21 age bracket also shows a strong presence, particularly among female undergraduates, with 170 females compared to 47 males. This trend suggests that Wilson College maintains its appeal to younger students, promoting a vibrant campus life that resonates with this demographic.
As we analyze older age groups, there is a noticeable decline in the number of students. For instance, those aged 30-34 comprise 33 males and 66 females, while the 40-49 age group has 42 total female students and 11 male students. This could reflect societal changes where individuals are pursuing higher education later in life, possibly for career advancement or personal growth.
Moreover, the data highlights that the college has a diverse age range, with students even above the age of 65, though their numbers remain quite low, with only 2 females. This inclusivity aligns with a broader trend in education, where lifelong learning is increasingly encouraged.
In summary, Wilson College's age distribution showcases a strong foundation of younger students while also embracing non-traditional learners, reflecting a dynamic educational environment that caters to a variety of life stages and learning goals.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
15 in 2025 · 5.1% in 2016
2 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Wilson College
The data on international student enrollment at Wilson College reveals a complex and fluctuating landscape over the years. Notably, the percentage of international undergraduate students has shown variability, peaking at 5.34% in 2008 before steadily declining to a low of 1.12% in 2022. This decline raises concerns regarding the college's appeal to international students, which could be influenced by various factors, including changes in global immigration policies, the competitive landscape of higher education, and the overall reputation of the institution.
In contrast, while the international graduate student numbers show a general upward trend in the earlier years, they too experience significant fluctuations. The peak of 546 graduate students in 2020 is notable, but the proportion of these students has significantly decreased, dropping from 0.29% in 2017 to 0.25% in 2023. This could reflect a broader trend of international students favoring larger institutions that offer more diverse programs and resources.
The decline in both undergraduate and graduate international student populations might also be a response to the global pandemic, as many institutions faced significant disruptions in recruitment and student mobility. As colleges and universities worldwide adapt to these changes, it is crucial for Wilson College to evaluate its strategies for attracting international talent, ensuring it remains competitive in the evolving landscape of higher education. The future trajectory for international enrollment at Wilson College will depend on its ability to address these challenges and enhance its global appeal.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$39,396
- Undergraduate tuition
- $27,100
- Room and board
- $12,296
- Graduate tuition
- $9,450
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 11% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 13%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$39.5M
Expenses$29.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · North Eastern Athletic Conference
North Eastern Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 28 | 31 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 25 |
| Basketball | 9 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | 9 | 11 |
| Equestrian | - | 20 |
| Lacrosse | - | 18 |
| Other Sports | - | 12 |
| Golf | 3 | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 26 | 24 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Field Hockey | - | 25 |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | 12 | 12 |
| Lacrosse | - | 18 |
| Other Sports | - | 13 |
| Golf | 10 | - |
| Equestrian | - | - |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 20 | 29 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Field Hockey | - | 18 |
| Volleyball | 10 | 8 |
| Lacrosse | - | 17 |
| Equestrian | - | 15 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
| Other Sports | - | 9 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 23.3 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Dickinson CollegeCarlisle · 29.7 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Juniata CollegeHuntingdon · 42.7 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
The Pennsylvania State UniversityUniversity Park · 59.6 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Shenandoah UniversityWinchester · 60.4 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of Maryland-Baltimore CountyBaltimore · 69.2 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 69.6 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 70.8 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
American UniversityWashington · 76.2 mi
U.S. News #95
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Wilson College:
-
Gettysburg College - Ranked 63rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Gettysburg College is a liberal arts college known for its rich history and commitment to academic excellence.
-
Dickinson College - With a rank of 46, Dickinson College is another esteemed liberal arts institution offering a diverse range of programs and a strong focus on global education.
-
Johns Hopkins University - Ranked 9th, Johns Hopkins is a prestigious research university renowned for its medical and scientific programs, as well as its commitment to interdisciplinary studies.
-
Georgetown University - This university is ranked 22nd and is known for its strong programs in international relations, law, and public policy, making it a prominent institution in the heart of Washington D.C.
-
Franklin and Marshall College - Ranked 35th, Franklin and Marshall is a liberal arts college with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research and a vibrant campus community.
These institutions offer a variety of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in their respective fields.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Crime Trends at Wilson College: A Positive Shift
The crime statistics from Wilson College over the years reveal a significant downward trend in crime rates, particularly from 2013 to 2023. In 2013, the average number of offenses per 1,000 students was alarmingly high at 32.23, with various incidents reported, including gun arrests and drug-related offenses. However, as the years progressed, there has been a remarkable decline, with the average crime rate plummeting to 0.00 in both 2021 and 2022.
The data from 2023 indicates a slight increase in the crime rate to 5.29 per 1,000 students, primarily due to a few incidents, but the overall trend remains encouraging. This notable decrease in crime can be attributed to several factors, including enhanced campus security measures, increased awareness programs, and a growing commitment to creating a safe environment for students.
Moreover, the absence of serious offenses such as robbery, rape, or murder during several years should be highlighted. This trend aligns with a broader national decrease in campus crimes, reflecting a collective effort toward improving campus safety across various educational institutions.
The data suggests that Wilson College is making strides in ensuring student safety, which is pivotal for fostering a conducive learning environment. Continuous efforts in crime prevention and community engagement will be essential in maintaining this positive trajectory. For those interested in understanding how crime rates are calculated, additional information can be found here.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Wilson College include Patsy Mink (Hawaii congresswoman, first Asian-American woman in Congress), Rida Johnson Young (Playwright, songwriter and librettist) and M. Jane Kitchel (Democratic Vermont state senator from 2005 to 2025).
-
Patsy Mink 1927–2002
Hawaii congresswoman, first Asian-American woman in Congress
-
Rida Johnson Young 1869–1926
Playwright, songwriter and librettist
-
M. Jane Kitchel 1945–
Democratic Vermont state senator from 2005 to 2025
-
Frances Wick 1875–1941
Physicist known for studies on luminescence
-
Pauline Morrow Austin 1916–2011
Physicist and meteorologist known for weather radar
-
Betty Andujar 1912–1997
First Republican woman elected to Texas State Senate
-
Anna Jane McKeag 1864–1947
Psychologist and first woman president of Wilson College
-
Delia Velculescu 1975–
Romanian economist, former IMF mission chief in Greece
-
Hannah Jane Patterson 1879–1937
Suffragist and social activist
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.