West Chester University's Student Population: A Comprehensive Overview

West Chester University in Pennsylvania is a large university, with a total student population of over 17,000. The university has seen a recent increase in its student population, with 17,275 students enrolled in Fall 2022, and 17,076 in Fall 2023. Of these students, approximately 14,000 are undergraduates, with the remaining 3,000 studying graduate programs.

West Chester University's total student population

West Chester University (WCU) is a public university located in West Chester, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1871 and currently offers over 118 undergraduate, 80+ graduate, and 5 doctoral programs across more than 50 fields of study.

WCU's total student population, including both undergraduate and graduate students, exceeds 17,000. Specifically, for the Fall 2023 semester, the university enrolled 14,344 undergraduate and 2,732 graduate students, for a total of 17,076 students. This number represents a less than 2% decrease in overall headcount from 2022, when the university's total enrollment stood at 17,275 students.

WCU's student body is predominantly female, with 59% of students identifying as female and 41% as male. Additionally, 41% of students live in college-owned housing, while 59% live off-campus. The university's first-year class for Fall 2022 was its largest in history, with 3,006 first-year students, compared to 2,628 in Fall 2021.

Undergraduate vs graduate student numbers

West Chester University (WCU) is a public university in Pennsylvania that offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. As of Fall 2023, the university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 14,344 students and a total graduate enrollment of 2,732 students. This means that the number of undergraduate students at WCU is significantly higher than the number of graduate students.

WCU offers over 118 undergraduate programs and 80+ graduate programs across more than 50 fields of study. The university has a large first-year class, with 3,006 first-year students enrolled in Fall 2022, an increase from 2,628 in Fall 2021. The university's overall enrollment stands at over 17,000 students, with a gender distribution of 41% male and 59% female students. About 41% of students live in college-owned or affiliated housing, while 59% live off-campus.

WCU's in-state tuition and fees for undergraduate programs are $10,687, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $22,261. The university has a strong focus on accessibility and affordability, with yearly in-state tuition remaining at $7,700. WCU encourages undergraduates to participate in experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and collaborative research with faculty members.

Gender distribution

West Chester University (WCU) has a total student population of over 17,000, with 14,344 of those being undergraduate students. The gender distribution of the student body is 59% female and 41% male. This distribution is reflected in the university's first-year class, which, in fall 2022, was composed of 3,006 students.

WCU has a strong focus on accessibility and affordability, with yearly in-state tuition remaining at $7,700, making it an attractive option for many students. This commitment to accessibility has resulted in WCU receiving more than 15,500 applications for its Fall 2022 first-year class. The university's large student population and strong enrollment numbers contribute to its position as the largest state-owned university in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

WCU offers a wide range of academic programs, including over 118 undergraduate, 80+ graduate, and 5 doctoral programs across more than 50 fields of study. The university encourages its undergraduates to participate in experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and collaborative research with faculty members. Additionally, WCU has a Summer Undergraduate Research Institute that further enhances research opportunities for its students.

The university's commitment to accessibility and academic excellence has resulted in it being recognised as a sought-after educational institution in the mid-Atlantic region.

On-campus vs off-campus living

West Chester University (WCU) in Pennsylvania offers both on-campus and off-campus living options for its students. With over 17,000 students enrolled, more than 5,300 choose to live in one of the 12 residence halls on campus.

On-Campus Living

On-campus living at WCU offers students three styles of residences: community-style (traditional dorm rooms), suites, and apartments. There are two on-campus living options: WCU Managed Housing (community-style housing) and USH (suite-style housing). Living on campus means that students are just steps away from their classes, dining options, student activities, and over 200 events each year. There are 18 on-campus dining options, 24/7 security, Friday nights in Sykes, and a world-class fitness facility.

Off-Campus Living

West Chester Off-Campus Housing was founded in 1987 to provide high-quality and affordable student housing. The organisation offers single houses, townhouses, duplexes, triplexes, quads, and various apartment settings, all within walking distance of the university. West Chester Off-Campus Housing has 150 properties, all of which include amenities such as spa-inspired bathrooms, onsite laundry facilities, 24-hour video surveillance, flat-screen televisions, and business-class WiFi.

The right choice for you depends on your personal preferences, budget, and desired proximity to campus. On-campus living offers convenience and easy access to university facilities and events, while off-campus living provides more independence and a wider variety of housing options. Consider factors such as cost, commute time, and the level of independence you desire when making your decision.

Student housing types

West Chester University (WCU) is a public university located in West Chester, Pennsylvania. It offers over 118 undergraduate, 80+ graduate, and 5 doctoral programs in more than 50 fields of study. As of Fall 2022, the university has over 17,000 students enrolled, including the largest first-year class in its history, with 3,006 first-year students.

WCU offers three styles of on-campus housing: community-style, suites, and apartments.

Community-Style Housing (WCU-Managed Housing)

WCU-managed housing is the traditional dorm room option, with over 5,300 students residing in 12 residence halls across North and South Campus. This option provides easy access to everything on campus, including classes, dining options, student activities, and over 200 events each year.

Suite-Style Housing (USH Affiliated Housing)

The University Student Housing (USH) is a suite-style housing option with a separate leasing office and contact information from WCU-managed housing. This option is also located on campus.

Apartments

Apartment-style housing options include the College Arms Apartments and the South Campus Apartment Complex, which are under the operational oversight of the Office of Residence Life and Housing.

Frequently asked questions