Wheeling University

With just 24 majors, Wheeling keeps offerings focused. Business administration, kinesiology, and criminal justice dominate (together comprising ~13% of degrees). The 13:1 student-faculty ratio enables close mentorship, though graduation rates tell a complex story—sources cite anywhere from 32% to 59% six-year completion. Nursing graduates report strong outcomes, with median salaries of $57,949. The university has faced recent turbulence, transitioning from Wheeling Jesuit University amid financial and operational challenges.

Life revolves around Wheeling's intimate 619-student campus, where the administration emphasizes "hands-on learning and unwavering support." With no Greek life and limited off-campus organizations, the Campus Activities Board drives social programming. A 2025 strategic plan prioritizes "diverse cultural exchanges," though current demographics skew heavily local. Crime reports indicate minimal on-campus incidents, with juniors and seniors having limited housing options beyond campus.

Post-graduation data shows contradictions: while 94-95% of surveyed alumni report employment or grad school attendance, four-year graduation rates sit at just 1-20%. Six-year rates improve to 53-68%. Median earnings ten years out reach $54,632—below the national average for four-year colleges ($60,377). Nursing graduates fare best, with $57,949 median salaries. Debt at graduation averages $15,375, lower than many private institutions.

Despite a $44,610 sticker price, 99% of students receive grants averaging $21,931—dropping the net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. to $19,164 for most. Freshman aid packages hit $27,335 on average. The university offers both need-based and merit aid?Merit aidScholarship money awarded for achievements like grades, talents, or test scores — not based on your family's financial need., with a June 30 FAFSA deadline. For context, the average annual cost across four years lands at $20,503 after aid.

Wheeling carves a niche through radical accessibility—both academically (64-75% acceptance) and financially (99% aid reception). Its tiny scale fosters mentorship, with every business major known by name. The Jesuit legacy?LegacyAn applicant whose parent (or sometimes other close relative) attended the college. Some schools give a small edge to legacy applicants. lingers in service-learning opportunities, though recent rebranding distances it from Catholic governance. For students wanting affordable, hands-on education in Appalachia—especially in nursing or criminal justice—it delivers where larger schools can't.