Wheeling University
Acceptance rate
63.2%
2025
Peer median 77.9%
Tuition per year
$29,875
$42,345 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
619
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
54.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 58.7%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Wheeling University, located in Wheeling, West Virginia, is a private Catholic institution that has been committed to providing a holistic education since its founding in 1954. The university is known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education, promoting critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication among its students. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, Wheeling University ensures personalized attention and mentorship, allowing students to thrive academically and personally. The institution actively fosters a supportive community that values diversity, respect, and inclusiveness, enhancing the overall humanistic environment on campus.
In addition to its robust academic programs, Wheeling University boasts a vibrant campus culture enriched by various extracurricular activities and athletic programs. The university offers a wide range of clubs and organizations, allowing students to engage in leadership opportunities and community service initiatives. The athletics program, particularly in NCAA Division II sports, encourages students to maintain a balanced lifestyle and fosters school spirit. Notably, Wheeling University has also made headlines recently for its commitment to enhancing student experience through innovative programs and initiatives aimed at improving educational accessibility and success. With a strong foundation in faith and education, Wheeling University prepares its graduates to excel in their careers while making meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Wheeling University
Wheeling University, a private institution, has experienced considerable fluctuations in several key metrics over the past decade. One of the most notable trends is the significant increase in tuition costs. From 2014 to 2024, the tuition for in-state undergraduate students rose from $27,830 to $29,475, marking an increase of approximately 5.5%. This rise is concerning for prospective students, especially considering that tuition fees have been increasing at a rate that often outpaces inflation and wage growth.
In terms of student enrollment, there has been a sharp decline in both undergraduate and graduate student numbers. For instance, the undergraduate population dropped from 1,180 in 2014 to just 594 in 2023, representing a staggering decrease of about 50%. This trend may indicate potential issues with the university's appeal or accessibility, which could be exacerbated by rising tuition costs.
Retention rates also provide a mixed picture. There was a notable spike in 2021, achieving a perfect retention rate of 100%. However, this was followed by a decrease to 71.6% in 2023. Such fluctuations may reflect the changing experiences of students, influenced by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the university's response to it.
Lastly, the graduation rates indicate a need for improvement. The on-time graduation rate dropped to 0% in 2023, following fluctuating rates over the years. This raises concerns regarding the university's academic support and the overall student experience.
In summary, Wheeling University faces challenges in enrollment, retention, and graduation rates, compounded by rising tuition costs. Addressing these issues will be crucial for enhancing its competitive position and ensuring student success in the coming years.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Small city
- Nearest major city
- Pittsburgh, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), about 40 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dianna Vargo (President)
- Phone
- 3042432000
- City
- Wheeling, West Virginia
- Address
- 316 Washington Ave, Wheeling, WV 26003
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 67.2%, women 69.3%.
Data insights
Wheeling University Admission Trends and Rankings
The admission data for Wheeling University over the years reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the university faced a challenging landscape with a male acceptance rate of about 66.67% and a female acceptance rate of 66.05%. These rates show a relatively open admission process, although the number of applicants denied was notably high, reaching 400 in that year.
As we move through the subsequent years, there appears to be a gradual increase in enrollment, peaking in 2019 with 301 new students admitted. Interestingly, the acceptance rates for both genders fluctuated and showed a marked improvement by 2016, where the male acceptance rate spiked to 88.46%, indicating a more favorable admission climate. However, this trend was not consistent, reflecting the uncertainties in higher education admissions that many institutions experienced, especially during the pandemic years around 2020-2021.
The data also highlights the increase in deferred admissions, particularly in 2019, where over 1,100 students were deferred, showcasing students' changing perspectives on immediate enrollment amidst external factors like economic conditions and the global pandemic.
By 2023, the male acceptance rate rose to an impressive 96.17%, although the female acceptance rate dropped significantly to 46.40%, raising concerns about gender equity in admissions. The overall picture suggests that Wheeling University, like many others, is navigating an evolving landscape of higher education admissions, reflecting broader societal and economic trends. These dynamics will likely continue to shape the university's policies and applicant demographics in the years to come.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Health Specialty1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Scores at Wheeling University
The data from Wheeling University over the years reveals intriguing trends in standardized test scores and submission rates. Notably, there has been a fluctuating number of students submitting their SAT and ACT scores for admission, with a significant peak in 2021 where 93% of applicants provided SAT scores. This contrasts sharply with 20% in 2022 and 2023, indicating a potential shift in admissions strategy or a response to the growing test-optional movement in higher education.
In terms of scores, the SAT reading and math scores show a general improvement over time, with the 25th percentile score rising to 520 and the 75th percentile reaching up to 590 in recent years. This suggests that the admitted student cohort is becoming more academically competitive. Historically, the scores have fluctuated, with lower ranges observed in the mid-2010s, but the upward trend in the last few years is promising.
Moreover, the ACT scores also reflect a similar pattern, with an increase in the middle 50% range, indicating that the university is attracting higher caliber students. Such trends are essential for prospective students and parents to consider, as they reflect not only the academic standards of the institution but also its responsiveness to changes in the educational landscape, particularly amidst the increasing movement towards test-optional policies.
In summary, Wheeling University appears to be navigating the complexities of college admissions effectively, adapting to new trends while striving to maintain a competitive academic profile. This evolution will likely continue as higher education institutions collectively reassess the role of standardized testing in admissions processes.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 6 in 10
2,796 applicants in 2025, 63.2% admitted
1,766 admitted 1,030 not admitted Yield 10.2%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's27 (19% international)
- Physical Therapy/Therapist · Doctoral16 (0% international)
- Family Practice Nurse/Nursing · Master's15 (0% international)
- Educational Leadership and Administration, General · Master's9 (0% international)
- Organizational Leadership · Master's5 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Wheeling University
The graduation data from Wheeling University for 2023 reveals significant insights into the trends in various academic programs. Notably, the Physical Therapy/Therapist program stands out with a substantial number of doctorate graduates, totaling 37 individuals. This indicates a strong focus on advanced education in the health sciences, reflecting the growing demand for specialized healthcare professionals in a post-pandemic world.
In the nursing field, several programs such as Registered Nursing and Family Practice Nursing also produced notable graduates. The Registered Nursing program graduated 14 individuals at the bachelor's level, highlighting the critical role of nursing education in addressing healthcare needs. The absence of international students in these programs may suggest a potential area for growth, as attracting a diverse student body could enhance the educational experience.
Interestingly, other programs such as Exercise Science and Kinesiology and Criminal Justice saw moderate bachelor’s degree graduates, each with 14 and 5 graduates respectively. However, many programs reported no graduates or were completely absent of international students, indicating a potential disconnect or lack of interest in certain fields, such as Communication Management and Strategic Communication.
Overall, the data highlights a strong emphasis on medical and health-related programs at Wheeling University, aligning with national trends where healthcare occupations are projected to grow significantly. This focus could serve as a strategic advantage for the university, positioning it well to meet future workforce demands while also addressing gaps in recruitment and program expansion.
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 | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $40,074 | |||
| Organizational Leadership. | $40,074 | |||
| Accounting. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athletic Training/Trainer. | - | |||
| Physical Therapy/Therapist. | $75,926 | |||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - | |||
| Nursing Administration. | - | |||
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - | |||
| Educational Leadership and Administration, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - | |||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Safety Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Management and Strategic Communications. | - |
Students
774 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 58:42 · Freshman retention 53.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 321
- First-year undergraduates 180
- Graduate students 155
- Transfers and others 118
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (619)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Wheeling University for 2023
In 2023, Wheeling University presents a diverse student body with a notable distribution across different categories. The undergraduate freshmen comprise 145 students, with a male representation of 69% and females at 31%. This significant male dominance in the new cohort raises questions about gender inclusivity and recruitment strategies aimed at attracting more female students.
The undergraduate continuing students number 379, with a more balanced gender ratio of 58.6% male and 41.4% female. This trend suggests that while the university has a predominantly male freshman class, the continuing students show an improvement in gender balance, indicating potential changes in retention rates or shifts in the demographic makeup over time.
The transfer students, numbering 54, exhibit a gender ratio that is nearly equal, with 53.7% male and 46.3% female, illustrating a slight move towards gender parity in this group. Conversely, the graduate students total 155, with a nearly equal distribution of genders—50.3% male and 49.7% female—indicating a more progressive stance towards gender equality in higher education, particularly at the graduate level.
Interestingly, the data reveals a total of 16 students in the 'non-degree' category, with a striking 25% male and 75% female representation, further emphasizing the complexities of demographics in specific programs.
Overall, Wheeling University’s demographics highlight a need for ongoing assessment of gender representation, particularly in first-year admissions. The university may benefit from targeted initiatives that encourage greater female enrollment, enhancing its commitment to diversity and inclusivity in all academic programs.
Age Demographics at Wheeling University: A Closer Look
The age demographics of Wheeling University reveal a diverse student population, predominantly composed of younger individuals. The majority of students are in the 18-21 age range, with 115 undergraduate males and 64 undergraduate females aged 18-19, and 130 undergraduate males alongside 63 undergraduate females in the 20-21 age group. This suggests that the university attracts a significant number of recent high school graduates, aligning with national trends where younger students increasingly pursue higher education immediately after secondary school.
Interestingly, the data shows a gradual decrease in enrollment among older age groups. For instance, while 82 students aged 22-24 are enrolled, the numbers drop significantly for those aged 25-29, where only 24 students are recorded. This trend might reflect societal shifts where young adults prioritize their education earlier in life, hence fewer students returning to academia later on.
Additionally, the presence of graduate students is noteworthy, especially among those aged 22-24, where 19 male and 8 female students are pursuing advanced degrees. This could indicate that younger students are more inclined to continue their education immediately after their undergraduate studies, possibly fueled by the increasing job market demands for advanced qualifications.
Overall, Wheeling University showcases a youthful and vibrant academic community, with a notable emphasis on younger students. This aligns with broader educational trends observed across many institutions, highlighting the importance of adapting curricula and support services to cater to the needs of this demographic.
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.
120 in 2025 · 6.3% in 2016
13 in 2025 · 0.9% in 2016
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Data at Wheeling University
The data from Wheeling University over the years reveals intriguing trends in international student enrollment within both undergraduate and graduate programs. In the early years, particularly from 2004 to 2009, the percentage of international students in undergraduate programs fluctuated significantly, peaking at 6.33% in 2016 before dropping again in subsequent years. This fluctuation may reflect broader trends in higher education, including changes in global mobility, visa regulations, and university recruitment efforts.
The increase in the proportion of international students in 2022 to 10.68% is noteworthy, suggesting a potential rebound or a strategic initiative to attract more diverse student populations. This rise could indicate that Wheeling University is successfully positioning itself as an attractive destination for international students, a trend that many institutions are pursuing to enhance their global presence and cultural diversity.
Conversely, graduate student enrollment trends appear more stable but less pronounced, with international representation hovering around or below 2% for most years. The lack of data for recent years raises questions about the university's ability to attract graduate students from abroad, especially when compared to the growing competition among universities globally for this demographic.
Overall, these statistics point to a dynamic landscape for international education at Wheeling University, influenced by external factors and institutional strategies. As the university continues to adapt, it will be crucial to monitor these trends to ensure sustainable growth in international enrollment, which can enrich the academic environment and foster a more global perspective on campus.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$42,345
- Undergraduate tuition
- $29,875
- Room and board
- $12,470
- Graduate tuition
- $6,260
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 7% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 76%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$18.9M
Expenses$25.1M
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 · Other · Mountain East Conference
Mountain East Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 130 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 53 | 42 |
| Soccer | 39 | 34 |
| Lacrosse | 32 | 23 |
| Basketball | 21 | 23 |
| Baseball | 39 | - |
| Swimming | 17 | 14 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Volleyball | - | 23 |
| Wrestling | 19 | - |
| Golf | 11 | 6 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 142 | - |
| Soccer | 34 | 34 |
| Baseball | 44 | - |
| Basketball | 22 | 18 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 17 | 22 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 17 | 22 |
| Cross Country | 17 | 22 |
| Lacrosse | 31 | - |
| Softball | - | 29 |
| Wrestling | 25 | - |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Swimming | 9 | 10 |
| Golf | 11 | 4 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 127 | - |
| Soccer | 38 | 32 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 28 | 35 |
| Basketball | 20 | 19 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Lacrosse | 36 | - |
| Other Sports | 34 | - |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Volleyball | - | 21 |
| Swimming | 5 | 8 |
| Golf | 6 | 6 |
| Wrestling | 11 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 24.8 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Robert Morris UniversityMoon Township · 40.1 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh · 44.6 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh · 46.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh · 47.1 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Chatham UniversityPittsburgh · 48.0 mi
U.S. News #236
-
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown · 49.3 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Kent State University at KentKent · 81.8 mi
U.S. News #236
-
College of WoosterWooster · 83.0 mi
Liberal Arts #91
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Wheeling University:
-
Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious research university in Pittsburgh is known for its strong emphasis on technology and the arts.
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - With a rank of 67, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is renowned for its research initiatives.
-
Duquesne University - This university ranks 151st and is well-regarded for its programs in law, business, and health sciences, providing a strong liberal arts education.
-
Ohio State University-Main Campus - Ranked 43rd, Ohio State is a large public university known for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life.
-
Kenyon College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Kenyon ranks 39th and is celebrated for its rigorous academic curriculum and beautiful campus setting.
These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding Wheeling University.
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
Analysis of Crime Data at Wheeling University
The crime data from Wheeling University over the past decade reveals significant fluctuations in the average crime rate per 1,000 students. In 2013, the average was notably high at 38.14 incidents per 1,000 students, but this figure has decreased remarkably over the years, reaching a low of 14.94 in 2021. This trend indicates a positive development in campus safety and an effective response to crime prevention measures.
However, the data also shows a concerning spike in 2023, with the average crime rate rising to 40.85 per 1,000 students. Such an increase could be influenced by various factors, including changes in campus policies, societal issues, or even the impact of recent global events like the pandemic, which has affected crime rates in many communities.
Among the specific types of incidents, gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents have been areas of concern, but the university has made strides in reducing these occurrences significantly over the years. The absence of on-campus incidents in many categories further emphasizes the effectiveness of the university's safety protocols.
While the overall trend points to improvements in campus safety, the resurgence in crime rates in 2023 warrants further investigation. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures are crucial to ensure the safety of students and staff at Wheeling University. For a more comprehensive understanding of crime rate calculations, further information can be found here: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Wheeling University include Timothy F. Murphy (Former US Representative from Pennsylvania, psychologist), Haywood Highsmith (Professional basketball player) and John Beilein (Basketball coach, former Cleveland Cavaliers head coach).
-
Timothy F. Murphy 1952–2026
Former US Representative from Pennsylvania, psychologist
-
Haywood Highsmith 1996–
Professional basketball player
-
John Beilein 1953–
Basketball coach, former Cleveland Cavaliers head coach
-
Joel John Bailey 1980–
Forward who played for Carolina RailHawks
-
James T. Smith, Jr. 1942–
Former Maryland Secretary of Transportation
-
Lionel Cartwright 1960–
Country music singer-songwriter
-
Remy Munasifi 1980–
Stand-up comedian and parody musician
-
Jason H. Wilson 1968–
Former Ohio state senator
-
Christina Richey
Planetary scientist at Jet Propulsion Laboratory
More alumni (1, by field)
Politics and law
-
Erikka Lynn Storch 1971–
Former West Virginia House of Delegates member
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
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.