Wright State University-Main Campus
The Vibe Check
Wright State University feels like a supportive, commuter-focused campus where students are laser-focused on practical career outcomes rather than traditional college party culture. The atmosphere is grounded and unpretentious, with a diverse mix of non-traditional students and recent high school graduates navigating their educational journey together. It's a place where you roll up your sleeves, get your degree, and get ready for the workforce.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Wright State offers strong, career-oriented programs, particularly in Business, Health Professions, and Engineering, with solid ties to the major employers in the Dayton region. Class sizes are generally manageable, allowing for accessible interactions with professors who often bring real-world experience to the classroom. The university provides ample research opportunities through its connection to the nearby Air Force Research Laboratory and other local industries.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Dayton
Student life in Dayton is anchored by the university's suburban campus, but the city itself offers a surprisingly vibrant arts and culture scene, including the renowned Dayton Art Institute and numerous live music venues. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the extensive network of bike trails and parks, while the city's aerospace history (think Wright Brothers) provides unique museums and events. For nightlife and dining, students often head to the Oregon District or nearby Kettering.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($49,500):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in a quiet, wooded suburb (Fairborn) and has a dedicated campus police force, though standard precautions are always recommended. The surrounding area is generally safe, but the proximity to a major city means students should be aware of their surroundings, especially when venturing off-campus.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Affordable tuition, especially for Ohio residents
- ✓ Strong connections to major employers like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base
- ✓ Wide range of in-demand majors like Engineering and Health Professions
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it accessible for many students
Cons
- ✗ Lower graduation and retention rates compared to national averages
- ✗ Campus life is more commuter-focused and may lack a traditional 'college town' feel
- ✗ The suburban setting requires a car to access off-campus amenities and entertainment
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Wright State University is particularly known for its strong ties to the aerospace and defense industry, largely due to its proximity to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. It offers robust programs in Business, Health Professions (including nursing and medicine), Engineering, and Education. The university is also recognized for its value and accessibility as a public institution in Ohio.
No, Wright State is not considered a hard school to get into, with an acceptance rate of 95.15%. The average SAT score is around 1086, and the university practices open admissions for most programs, making it a great option for a wide range of students. However, admission to specific competitive programs within the university may require higher academic standards.
Campus life at Wright State is best described as diverse and commuter-oriented, with a significant portion of students living off-campus. While there are over 200 student organizations and NCAA Division I athletics, the social scene is quieter compared to large party schools, focusing more on academic and career-related activities. Students often engage in on-campus events or explore the broader Dayton area for entertainment.
For Ohio residents, Wright State offers a compelling financial value with low tuition and a net price of around $15,000. The median earnings of $49,500 ten years after graduation provide a solid return on investment, especially for graduates in high-demand fields like engineering, business, and healthcare. However, the value depends heavily on the student's major and their ability to graduate on time, given the lower retention and graduation rates.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 8,256
- In-State Tuition $11,188
- Out-of-State $20,606
- Zip Code 45435
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
Wright State presents a solid financial value, especially for Ohio residents, with an in-state tuition under $12,000 and a net price around $15,000 after aid. The 10-year median earnings of $49,500 for graduates offer a reasonable return on investment, particularly for those in high-demand fields like engineering or health professions. However, the lower graduation and retention rates suggest that students must be proactive to finish on time and maximize their investment.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.