Why Penn State Wilkes‑Barre?

Where can you get a Big Ten education with all the advantages a small campus has to offer? At Penn State Wilkes-Barre, you choose the degree plan that’s right for you. Whether that’s two years at home and two years at another campus to finish one of Penn State’s 275+ degrees, or all four years at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. And it’s affordable — 91% of our students receive financial aid, including scholarships. Here, you’ll find caring faculty, undergraduate research opportunities, and experienced advisers to prepare you for the career you want. Our alumni are making their mark — join a network of more than 700,000 Penn State graduates around the world!

We are Penn State. And we are here for you every step of the way.

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For the past two years my son … has attended Penn State University Wilkes-Barre. Your staff has gone above and beyond as they educated, guided, and advised my son. For this and so much more I wish to convey my deepest appreciation.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre parent
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Academics

At Penn State Wilkes-Barre, you choose the degree plan that’s right for you. We offer several associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and minors that can be completed right here. Or, you can complete your first two years of coursework here, then transition to another campus to complete your major in one of the 275+ degree programs offered by the University. No matter where you start, no matter where you finish, you’ll get the power of a Penn State degree.

Learn about academics at Penn State Wilkes-Barre
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Honors Program

The Honors Program at Penn State Wilkes-Barre provides a means for motivated students to enrich their general education and to deepen their specialized preparation for employment or graduate study. As an honors student, you will have fewer restrictions and more open doors.

Learn about our Honors Program
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Excellent Faculty

Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s faculty are friendly and approachable, as well as committed to your success! Because class sections rarely exceed 25-30 students, professors get to know their names. What’s more, students often form close mentoring relationships with their faculty members. Additionally, many of our faculty are professionally active in their academic fields, allowing students to learn from practitioners as well as theoreticians.

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Internships & Career Connections

The Struthers Family Career Services Center offers a variety of career planning and employment services to students. Career planning begins in your first year of college and continues throughout your lifetime!

Visit Career Services
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Outstanding Athletics

Students at Penn State Wilkes-Barre can participate in a variety of club, intramural and intercollegiate sports. The Athletic and Recreation Building (ARB) and its surrounding fields and courts offer a wide range of fitness and wellness options to our students, including specialized equipment and programs.

Go to the Athletics website
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Leadership Opportunities

There are many ways to pursue your out-of-classroom interests at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Get involved in one of our clubs or organizations related to community service, culture, professional interests and more.

Learn about Leadership Opportunities
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Student Success Services

Student Success Services (SSS), a TRIO federal grant program, aims to increase college retention, graduation rates, and career options for first-generation college students, those from low-income families, the physically challenged, and students with learning disabilities.

Visit Student Success Services