Bachelor in Advisory Board

Direct access to industry leadership defines the experience for students at Widener University’s School of Business Administration. Through the Finance Advisory Board, students gain an invaluable bridge between academic theory and real-world financial practice, benefiting from the guidance of high-level professionals from prominent firms such as The Vanguard Group, Merrill Lynch, Wells Fargo, and Blackstone.

This initiative is far more than a traditional support committee; it serves as a career-accelerating engine for students pursuing undergraduate and graduate work in finance, tax, and financial planning. By engaging with these industry veterans, students move beyond the classroom to:

• Secure high-impact internship opportunities within major financial institutions.
• Access direct mentorship from partners, managing directors, and wealth strategists.
• Gain professional insights into the evolving landscapes of investment management, wealth planning, and consultancy.

The board is composed of a diverse array of experts who actively direct and promote the university’s finance curricula, ensuring that the academic training remains aligned with the needs of the modern financial services industry.

A Foundation of History and Academic Excellence

Widener University traces its history back to the Pennsylvania Military College, an origin that continues to influence the institution's commitment to leadership and service. Today, the university has evolved into a comprehensive private institution that emphasizes both intellectual growth and real-world application. Its academic landscape is expansive, featuring over 50 graduate programs and a wide array of undergraduate degrees designed to meet the demands of a modern, global economy.

Research and Hands-On Learning

A core component of the Widener experience is its dedication to experiential learning. The university manages between $8 million and $10 million in annual research grant funding, providing students with unique opportunities to work alongside faculty mentors. This emphasis on discovery is matched by a strong focus on career readiness, with 66% of students participating in co-ops or internships—a figure significantly higher than the national average. Programs such as the 8-month paid co-op allow students to gain professional experience while staying on track to graduate within four years.

Campus Life and Community

The campus serves as a dynamic hub for over 300 annual events, fostering a vibrant social and professional environment. With more than 90 student clubs and organizations, international students have ample opportunities to engage with the campus community, develop leadership skills, and build a network that extends to 65,000+ alumni worldwide. Civic engagement is a pillar of the Widener identity, with participation rates significantly outpacing national benchmarks, reflecting the university's commitment to developing well-rounded, socially conscious individuals.

International Student Context

Widener’s commitment to student success is evidenced by the 93% of the class of 2025 who achieved their career goals within six months of graduation. The university provides a pathway for students to excel in various high-demand fields, supported by a network of faculty and staff dedicated to individual student achievement. By fostering an environment where nearly every undergraduate receives some form of financial aid, the university ensures that a high-quality education remains accessible to a diverse and global student body.