A Reputation for Excellence

Wilmington University is a private, nonprofit, open-access and accredited university committed to offering affordable, student-centered education since 1968. Respected for its in-person classes and nationally recognized for excellence in online learning, WilmU is an innovator in providing higher education to busy working adults, and its exceptional 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio means instructors are actively involved in your education.

  • 95% of WilmU graduates would recommend the University to family and friends.
  • 89% of graduates rate their instructors as "excellent."

With more than 20,000 students at its Delaware locations and global online campus, WilmU’s student community includes traditional, non-traditional, military and international learners. Discover the student experience through videos, testimonials and more in the Digital Viewbook.

Accredited by Multiple Agencies

Wilmington University is fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Other accreditations highlight the value of individual colleges and programs, such as the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

The Legal Studies concentration of the B.S. in Law, Policy and Political Science and the Post-Bachelor's Paralegal certificate are American Bar Association (ABA) approved.

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) certifies the University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program.

Why Wilmington University is Respected

Globally Respected Faculty

Wilmington University is a highly respected educational institution where instructors are leaders in their fields and well-versed in the challenges facing today’s workforce. Their up-to-date knowledge and innovative coursework will help you succeed.

Get to know some of WilmU’s highly accomplished professors:

Awards and Distinctions

Supporting Employees Through Academic and Corporate Partnerships

Many leading organizations and corporations trust their employees’ education and training to WilmU.

"WilmU has been a trusted and valued partner of Guild's for many years. It’s been clear from day 1 of our partnership that WilmU cares deeply about the needs of working adult learners. Their robust catalog paired with their commitment to transfer-friendly policies makes it possible for Wildcats across the country to jump-start their education and advance their careers." - Mark Rudnick, Vice President, Learning Partnerships, Guild Education

"I’ve always believed that I would pursue a career in leadership, and Wilmington University provides a flexible learning environment for adult learner students such as myself. If you are interested in pursuing a career in a profession you’re passionate about, Wilmington University provides a flexible and cost-effective option." - Alex T., American Airlines

Career-Relevant and Flexible Degree Options To Fit Your Life

At Wilmington University, faculty and staff are focused on helping you reach your academic goals — with more than 200 degree and certificate programs offered across six academic colleges: Business, Education and Liberal Arts, Health Professions and Natural Sciences, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Technology, and the Wilmington University School of Law.

Whether you’re just starting out, climbing the corporate ladder or changing careers, WilmU programs can flex to meet your needs. Choose from in-person courses at WilmU’s Delaware locations or more than 150 programs available 100% online. Align your coursework with your professional goals through minors, concentrations, certificates and experiential learning options.

With traditional semesters or accelerated seven-week blocks and a choice of course formats, WilmU accommodates your needs so you can learn when it is most convenient for you.

Dual-Credit ADVANTAGETM

Dual Credit Advantage Logo

You can earn credentials faster and with significant savings through Dual-Credit ADVANTAGE™ programs. Unique to WilmU are accelerated academic options that let you apply course credits to more than one degree or certificate.

Guided Pathways Approach

WilmU's Guided Pathways framework — a comprehensive, personalized approach to educational planning from application to graduation — will keep you on track, on time and on budget. Through advisement and check-ins, Guided Pathways counselors will help you complete your degree efficiently and affordably.

Emphasizing Career Readiness and Advancement

WilmU instructors are active practitioners and leaders in their fields, teaching you the skills you need to stay current in your chosen industry. They want you to graduate confident, connected and ready to take on the challenges of the global business and technology marketplace, health care and educational systems, community organizations, and more.

  • 93% of WilmU students believe their professors provide relevant assignments for real-world application.
  • 88% of students feel they have acquired knowledge and skills that will improve their career opportunities.

Assessment and Evaluation

WilmU routinely assesses academic programs to ensure you’re learning the skills employers want. WilmU studies labor market trends and develops responsive curricula that equip graduates with in-demand skills.

The proof is in the data. Wilmington University Academic Affairs publishes student learning outcomes online and evidence of student achievement.

“That layer of transparency in itself is key to that level of respect,” says Dr. Denise Wells, WilmU’s vice president of academic affairs.

Lifetime Career Services

You’ll enjoy outstanding career placement opportunities and lifetime counseling at Wilmington University. The Career Services office provides free resources for WilmU students and alumni to explore job openings, gain professional development and pursue experiential learning. Counselors can help you learn more about your chosen field and advance your career.

World-Class Faculty Expertise

Wilmington University’s expert faculty are active practitioners and leaders in their fields who genuinely care about their students.

  • 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures all learners receive individualized attention.
  • The Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) offers professional development opportunities for all faculty members so students receive the highest quality education.

What students are saying about WilmU:

  • 85% feel their instructors are interested in them and their learning.
  • 84% rate their courses as excellent.

Nationally Recognized for Expertise in Online Learning

Wilmington University is a nationally recognized academic institution for online learning, educating students online since 2007. Choose from more than 150 programs available 100% online — combining the same quality academics of traditional degree programs with a convenient online format. WilmU also has comprehensive student services and tech support to meet your needs.

A Good Choice for Working Adults

Flexible scheduling options allow you to continue to earn while you learn through four types of online courses: hybrid, online, Flex and Online Live.

  • 93% of WilmU students take advantage of online learning options.
  • 77% take all their courses online.

Online Learning Awards and Recognition

Woman sitting while working on a laptop.

The Online Learning Consortium™ (OLC) awarded Wilmington University an Exemplary Endorsement for Administration of Online Programs, based on the rigorous OLC Quality Scorecard. This third-party recognition confirms WilmU’s high standards for student and instructor support, technology infrastructure, and course development.

Forbes Advisor included four WilmU online degrees in the top 10 of its 2024 Best Online Degree rankings: the associate degree in Health Sciences, the associate degree in Finance, the Doctor of Business Administration, and the Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership, Learning and Innovation.

Top-Ranked Degree Completion Programs

Transfer Honor Roll

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) named Wilmington University one of America’s most transfer-friendly colleges for degree completion. Apply up to 90 undergraduate credits or 12 graduate credits to your WilmU program for a head start on completing your degree.

  • Approximately 70% of undergraduate students transfer credits to WilmU.
  • Graduates of any accredited community college benefit from guaranteed admission to WilmU and can apply their entire associate degree (or all applicable credits) to a WilmU bachelor's degree.

Credit for Prior Learning and Experience

Why relearn what you already know? At Wilmington University, you have options.

Shorten your path to graduation by earning WilmU academic credit for your prior work and experience, including previous college-level coursework, certifications, training, licenses, military service, co-ops, internships, and standardized tests and exams.

Check out 10 ways to earn college credit for your accomplishments.

Student-Focused Culture

Wilmington University is diverse and inclusive, welcoming students worldwide. Each WilmU student has a story, a journey, goals and needs. Faculty and staff take them all to heart. Their goal is to provide comprehensive and caring support to every student from their first contact with WilmU through their lifetime as a proud graduate.

Institutional Values

We are committed to being a university where UNDERSTANDING and RESPECT for each other are paramount; INTEGRITY guides all of our choices; providing educational OPPORTUNITY is our primary purpose; and RESPONSIVENESS to diverse community needs is key.

Who are WilmU’s 20,000+ students?

WilmU Wildcats are traditional college-aged students, working professionals, active-duty military, veterans, teachers, registered nurses, business owners, career changers, international students, first-generation college students, parents and grandparents. Each student has unique needs.

  • Approximately 70% of WilmU students transfer in credits.
  • 77% take all their courses online.
  • 23% choose a combination of formats or in-person courses.
  • 45% identify as racially/ethnically diverse.
  • 75% of students attend part time.
  • 12% are international students.

WilmU provides supportive, personalized programs and flexible schedules to help you achieve your educational and career goals while balancing your personal commitments and "living a full life."

Comprehensive Student Support Services

As a WilmU student, you can access free 24/7 online tutoring, academic advising and other caring support services. Counselors in the Student Engagement Center are happy to help you throughout your time at WilmU. They’re your primary resource for any questions or concerns you have while enrolled.

Clubs and Organizations

Get to know your fellow Wildcats! Many of WilmU’s 40 clubs, organizations and honor societies host monthly meetings virtually, giving online students a perfect way to engage with fellow Wildcats.

Affordable Higher Education

Wilmington University is committed to keeping education affordable and telling you all the costs of earning your degree or certificate from the very beginning. WilmU is one of the region’s most affordable private, nonprofit institutions — with low in-state tuition and low fees for all students.

Whether you choose to take courses in person at locations throughout Delaware or online, WilmU charges tuition on a per-credit basis, so you only need to pay for the credits you’re taking.

  • Students who transfer to WilmU with an associate degree can complete their bachelor’s degree for as little as $21,000.
    • Delaware SEED program graduates can complete their bachelor's degree for less than $13,000.
  • Average student loan debt for Wilmington University students is $20,000, well under the national average.

WilmU offers many scholarships and financial aid programs to students who qualify. The generosity of donors allows WilmU students to pursue their dreams. Read some of their inspiring scholarship stories.

Military Benefits

Military Friendly Badge

Individuals who have served or are currently serving in the military and their dependents may be eligible to have their tuition covered under veterans benefits. Active-duty military students can take advantage of WilmU’s military tuition rate and any tuition assistance programs their military branch offers.

Student and Alumni Reviews

One of the best ways to learn about the University is to hear from WilmU Wildcats:

"I wouldn't consider going anywhere else. Having (my WilmU) degree, as well as years of experience, helped to put me toward the top of the pile when employers were considering applicants. Online education is important, and WilmU did a great job. Investing in yourself is one of the best investments you can ever make in life." — Virginia S., B.S. in Business Management

"My inspiration to attend Wilmington University was the flexibility of the courses because I was working full time. My professors helped me gain the knowledge and basics to get started in the technology sector. WilmU helped me shape my management career, and I now own a business. WilmU helped me grow." — Varunsinh J., M.S. in Information Systems Technologies

"This University has the ability to transform your greatest desires and dreams into reality. (It is) a great community of students, faculty and alumni that will help you wherever you are in your life journey. I came in as an anxious student and came out as a fully confident graduate who was ready to start her life on the right foot!" — Nina T., B.S. in Middle Level Education

"My father received his doctorate from Wilmington University and recommended it to me. WilmU was a good place to go because of the small classes and one-on-one attention. The price was reasonable, and I could get a good education. I learned a lot, and my degrees have assisted me in my current position." — Glenn C., M.Ed. in Applied Technology in Education, M.Ed. in ESOL Literacy

"The fact that WilmU offers such small classes is one of my favorite things. … (It) gives us the opportunity to interact and get to know each other. We’re able to address our professor directly whenever we need to discuss something." — Konstantinos P., B.S. in Sport Management candidate

"WilmU had exactly the program I was seeking. I enjoyed my time there, and the teachers were so phenomenal that I continued on to get my master's degree. Everything I learned in the classes was extremely valuable, and I use (those skills) every day in the classroom. All of the support shaped me into the educator that I am today." — Brianna S., B.S. in Education Studies, M.Ed. in Special Education

"I knew I could attend WilmU and get the quality education I needed to move to the next level in my career." — Dr. Raymond N., Doctor of Nursing Practice

"I chose WilmU because they made me feel seen." — Hannah G., J.D. candidate

A Strong Alumni Network

Four students standing and smiling

Wildcats are impacting their communities and doing amazing things around the world. Among its distinguished alumni, Wilmington University counts educators, scientists, technology specialists, health care leaders, businesspeople, and police and emergency preparedness professionals.

The 2006 National Teacher of the Year is a WilmU graduate, and 12 of the last 16 Delaware Teachers of the Year have been WilmU alums. More than 50% of Delaware teachers have a degree from Wilmington University, including many in leadership roles, such as Dr. Mark Holodick, Delaware’s secretary of education.

Read some of WilmU’s exceptional student success stories:

  • Dr. Abiodun (Abi) Bakare, chief learning officer at the U.S. Mint, is responsible for helping 1,600 government employees improve their work at six locations across America.
  • Erica Dorsett was named one of Delaware Today’s 40 Top Women in Business.
  • Dr. Johnny Gayden, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), is one of only seven Black male CRNA full-time faculty members nationwide.
  • Dell Scott designs glamorous fashions that have graced runways in New York, Paris and Dubai.
  • Dr. Jason Smith serves as ChristianaCare’s corporate director of medical group operations, emergency services.
  • Dr. Hakim Stovall, a prevention scientist, earned a postdoctoral fellowship at the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions.

Athletics and Esports

Softball player smiling running and high fiving teammates.

16 NCAA Division II Teams

Wilmington University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II institution that competes in the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC). The Conference includes 12 schools throughout Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York and Connecticut.

The Wildcats sponsor 16 intercollegiate athletic teams. The Athletic Department is proud of its student-athletes’ successes:

  • WilmU Wildcat teams have competed in 12 NCAA National Tournaments.
  • WilmU Wildcat teams have appeared in 38 NCAA Division II Regional Tournaments.
  • The Wildcats have won six NCAA Division II East Regional Tournaments in four sports.
  • WilmU Cheer has earned its 10th Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championship.

Esports

Esports teams are growing at Wilmington University. Join us for exciting gameplay in a fun and cooperative community as students compete against local and not-so-local universities in League of Legends, Rocket League and other esports.

Rolling Admission

With six start times per year, you can begin your Wilmington University education as quickly as possible. Most programs don’t require standardized test scores when submitting your application, and Enrollment Counselors are available to guide you through the process.

WilmU’s open admissions policy means admission is guaranteed to most WilmU programs. With low in-state tuition rates for all students, flexible course formats, schedule choices and 100% online options for most programs, a WilmU education fits your busy life.

Thousands of students like you have found their higher education homes at Wilmington University. Enrollment and Engagement Counselors can help you research programs, navigate funding options and develop a schedule based on your needs.

*Data is based on the most recent Wilmington University Fact Book and alumni survey.

Take Your Next Steps

Apply to Wilmington University today or learn more about WilmU at an upcoming discovery event.