| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1846
Type: Private
Campus Size: 450 acres
Affiliation: Historically tied to the Baptist Church, but now nonsectarian
Motto: "Patriae Opes animumque meum" (Latin for "To my country I give my wealth and my soul")
Bucknell is primarily known for its strong programs in liberal arts, engineering, and management. It offers over 60 majors and 70 minors across three primary colleges:
College of Arts & Sciences
Offers programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics.
College of Engineering
Well-regarded programs in civil, mechanical, electrical, and biomedical engineering.
Freeman College of Management
Provides business-related majors, including finance, accounting, and global management.
Student-Faculty Ratio:
The university has a 9:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring small class sizes and personalized attention.
Bucknell is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States.
It is highly regarded for its engineering programs among institutions without doctoral programs.
Known for fostering undergraduate research opportunities and hands-on learning experiences.
Enrollment: Approximately 3,700 undergraduate students and a small number of graduate students.
Housing: Almost all students live on campus in university-owned housing.
Student Organizations: Over 200 student clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, service, and recreational groups.
Greek Life: Fraternities and sororities play a significant role, with about 50% of students participating in Greek life.
Nickname: Bison
Conference: Patriot League (NCAA Division I)
Bucknell offers 27 varsity sports teams, including basketball, soccer, track & field, and swimming. It also has many intramural and club sports.
Bucknell has a beautiful and well-maintained campus with state-of-the-art facilities, including:
Weis Center for the Performing Arts
Bertrand Library
Breakiron Engineering Building
A large and modern fitness and recreation center
Dedicated spaces for arts, music, and sciences.
Bucknell has a strong network of alumni who have excelled in various fields, including business, government, and the arts. Notable alumni include:
Philip Roth – Renowned American novelist
Les Moonves – Former CEO of CBS Corporation
Edward Herrmann – Actor
Mark P. Frissora – Former CEO of Hertz and Caesars Entertainment
Acceptance Rate: Around 30-40%
Application Options: Early Decision I & II, and Regular Decision
Test-Optional Policy: Bucknell is test-optional, meaning students can choose whether to submit SAT/ACT scores.
Average SAT Scores: 1280-1440 (for those who submit)
Average ACT Scores: 28-32 (for those who submit)
Tuition & Fees (2024-2025): Approximately $64,000 per year
Room & Board: Around $16,000 per year
Bucknell is committed to offering financial aid, including need-based aid and merit scholarships.
Strong academic reputation, especially in engineering, management, and liberal arts.
Personalized attention due to small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio.
Opportunities for hands-on learning, undergraduate research, and leadership.
A tight-knit campus community with vibrant student life and traditions.
Beautiful campus located in a safe, small-town setting.
1. College of Arts & Sciences
This college offers a diverse range of majors and minors in humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and mathematics. Students may also design their own majors in consultation with faculty.
Majors and Minors in the College of Arts & Sciences:
Humanities
Art History
Classics & Ancient Mediterranean Studies
Creative Writing
English – Literary Studies
Film & Media Studies
French & Francophone Studies
German Studies
History
Italian Studies
Literary Studies
Music
Philosophy
Religious Studies
Russian Studies
Spanish
Theatre
Social Sciences
Anthropology
Economics
Education
Geography
International Relations
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Natural Sciences
Biology
Biochemistry & Cell Biology
Chemistry
Environmental Geosciences
Geology
Neuroscience
Physics & Astronomy
Mathematics and Computer Science
Applied Mathematical Sciences
Computer Science
Mathematical Economics
Mathematics
Statistics
Interdisciplinary Programs
Animal Behavior
Environmental Studies
Global Management
Latin American Studies
Markets, Innovation & Design (offered jointly with the Freeman College of Management)
Women’s & Gender Studies
2. College of Engineering
Bucknell's engineering programs are highly ranked and emphasize hands-on learning, team projects, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Majors in the College of Engineering:
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Science and Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
3. Freeman College of Management
The Freeman College of Management provides a modern and interdisciplinary approach to business education, integrating ethics, sustainability, and innovation.
Majors in the Freeman College of Management:
Accounting
Business Analytics
Finance
Global Management
Managing for Sustainability
Markets, Innovation & Design (interdisciplinary major)
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Arts & Sciences |
|
|
|
- Art History |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Biology |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Biochemistry & Cell Biology |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Chemistry |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Classics & Ancient Mediterranean Studies |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Computer Science |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Creative Writing |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Economics |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- English – Literary Studies |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Environmental Studies |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Film & Media Studies |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- History |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- International Relations |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Mathematics |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Music |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Philosophy |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Political Science |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Psychology |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Sociology |
4 years |
$64,000 |
|
- Spanish |
4 years |
$64,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Engineering |
|
|
|
- M.S. in Chemical Engineering |
2 years |
$64,000 |
|
- M.S. in Civil Engineering |
2 years |
$64,000 |
|
- M.S. in Electrical Engineering |
2 years |
$64,000 |
|
- M.S. in Environmental Engineering |
2 years |
$64,000 |
|
- M.S. in Mechanical Engineering |
2 years |
$64,000 |
High-Quality Education
Bucknell is ranked among the top liberal arts universities in the U.S., with strong programs in engineering, business, and the liberal arts.
Small class sizes and a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio ensure personalized attention and close interactions with professors.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Bucknell provides hands-on learning and research opportunities, allowing students to collaborate with faculty on real-world projects.
Beautiful Campus
The 450-acre campus is located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, offering a safe and serene environment for learning and living.
Diverse Student Body
International students make up a growing percentage of the student body, fostering a multicultural and inclusive community.
Extensive Support for International Students
Dedicated resources like visa assistance, orientation programs, and academic advising are available.
Bucknell offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and 70 minors in three main academic divisions:
College of Arts & Sciences
College of Engineering
Freeman College of Management
Popular programs for international students include:
Biomedical Engineering
Business Analytics
Computer Science
Economics
Mechanical Engineering
Global Management
Bucknell offers three admission plans:
Early Decision I: Deadline: November 15 (binding)
Early Decision II: Deadline: January 15 (binding)
Regular Decision: Deadline: January 15 (non-binding)
Step 1: Complete the Application
Applicants must submit their application through one of the following platforms:
Common Application.
Coalition Application.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
Application fee: $50
Fee waivers are available for students with financial need.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
For First-Year (Undergraduate) Students:
Official High School Transcript
Submit transcripts for all completed secondary/high school coursework.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional)
Bucknell is test-optional; SAT or ACT scores are not required but can be submitted if the applicant believes they will strengthen their application.
Average SAT scores (if submitted): 1280–1440
Average ACT scores (if submitted): 28–32
English Language Proficiency Test Scores (For International Students)
If English is not your first language, you must submit one of the following:
TOEFL (minimum: 100 iBT)
IELTS (minimum: 7.0)
Duolingo English Test (minimum: 120)
Personal Essay
Required as part of the Common or Coalition Application.
Supplemental Essay
Bucknell may require one or more short essays specific to the university. Check the application portal for essay prompts.
Letters of Recommendation
One letter from a teacher (academic subject preferred).
One letter from a school counselor or another recommender who can speak about your personal qualities.
For Transfer Students:
Official College Transcripts
Transcripts from all colleges/universities attended.
High school transcripts may also be required.
Transfer Essay
Explain why you want to transfer to Bucknell.
Recommendation Letters
At least one from a college professor or instructor.
Step 4: Interview (Optional but Recommended)
Interviews are optional but encouraged, especially for Early Decision applicants.
Bucknell offers both on-campus and virtual interviews.
Step 5: Track Your Application Status
Once your application is submitted, you will receive access to Bucknell's application portal, where you can track the status of your application, confirm receipt of documents, and view your admission decision.
Bucknell primarily has one main intake for most programs:
Fall Intake (August/September) – The main and largest intake.
Bucknell does not offer a Spring or Summer intake for most programs, but transfer students may apply for spring admission in certain cases.
Academic Eligibility:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Strong academic performance in high school, including coursework in:
English
Mathematics (at least 3-4 years, including pre-calculus for certain majors like engineering)
Science (preferably physics and chemistry for engineering programs)
Social studies and a second language.
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
If English is not your first language, you must demonstrate proficiency by submitting one of the following:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW): Recommended score of 580 or higher (if SAT is submitted).
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
Bucknell is test-optional for SAT and ACT scores, meaning they are not mandatory for most programs.
Average SAT range (if submitted): 1280–1440
Average ACT range (if submitted): 28–32
Other Requirements:
Personal Essay (as part of the Common Application or Coalition Application).
Letters of Recommendation (at least one from a teacher or counselor).
Extracurricular Activities and Leadership Roles (preferred but not mandatory).
Bucknell offers Master of Science (M.S.) programs primarily in engineering fields.
Academic Eligibility:
A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, sciences, or related disciplines) from an accredited institution.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (preferred).
English Language Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120
GRE Scores:
GRE is optional for most master’s programs but may strengthen your application.
Other Requirements:
Statement of Purpose explaining academic goals and reasons for choosing Bucknell.
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2-3, from professors or employers).
Resume or CV (for certain programs).
Bucknell accepts transfer students with the following eligibility requirements:
Minimum of 12 completed college credits from an accredited institution.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program).
Transfer students must meet the same English proficiency requirements as first-year international students if applicable.
Ranking Organization |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked (Bucknell is primarily a liberal arts college and QS typically ranks research-intensive universities) |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
#32 in National Liberal Arts Colleges |
|
|
#40 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs (for schools without a doctorate) |
|
|
#51 in Best Value Schools |
|
|
#23 in Most Innovative Schools |
|
Forbes America’s Top Colleges |
Top 150 (approx.) |
|
Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education |
Top 100 in the U.S. for Student Engagement |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Presidential Fellowships |
Top academic performers with leadership qualities |
Up to $30,000 per year |
Combines scholarship with opportunities for faculty-mentored research or special projects. |
|
Merit Scholarships |
Outstanding academic achievements and extracurricular involvement |
, up to $20,000 per year |
Automatically considered for all admitted students. |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Based on demonstrated financial need |
(can cover full need) |
International and domestic students must submit the CSS Profile for eligibility. |
|
Dean's Scholarships |
High-achieving students with leadership potential |
Typically $10,000-$15,000 per year |
Requires strong academic records and active participation in extracurricular activities. |
|
Arts Merit Scholarships |
Students with exceptional talent in music, theatre, or visual arts |
, up to $20,000 per year |
Portfolio, audition, or other proof of talent required. |
|
ROTC Scholarships (Army) |
Students enrolled in Bucknell’s ROTC program |
Covers tuition, fees, and stipend |
Requires commitment to serve in the U.S. Army after graduation. |
|
Bucknell Grants |
Based on financial need |
(up to full tuition) |
Awarded through the financial aid process. |
|
First-Generation Student Scholarships |
First-generation college students |
, up to $20,000 per year |
Recognizes the unique challenges and achievements of first-generation students. |
|
International Student Scholarships |
High-achieving international students |
(up to full tuition) |
Limited number available; students must submit financial documentation during application. |
|
Athletic Scholarships |
Student-athletes recruited for varsity sports |
N/A |
Awarded by the Athletics Department, based on athletic ability and academic performance. |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Amenities |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
Shared or single rooms for first-year and sophomore students. |
Shared bathrooms, study lounges, laundry facilities. |
$8,000 - $9,500 |
|
Suite-Style Housing |
Suites with private or semi-private bathrooms, available to upperclassmen. |
Shared kitchenettes, lounge areas, laundry facilities. |
$10,000 - $12,000 |
|
Apartment-Style Housing |
Fully furnished apartments with private bedrooms and shared common spaces, for juniors and seniors. |
Kitchen, private bathrooms, living room, laundry. |
$12,000 - $14,000 |
|
Affinity Housing |
Themed housing based on shared interests (e.g., sustainability, arts), available for upperclassmen. |
Lounge spaces, kitchens, collaborative areas. |
$10,000 - $13,000 |
|
Fraternity & Sorority Housing |
Housing for students involved in Greek life. |
Community spaces, kitchens, laundry facilities. |
$9,000 - $11,500 |
|
Special Interest Houses |
Houses dedicated to cultural, academic, or social themes, available for select students. |
Study rooms, kitchens, lounge areas. |
$10,000 - $12,000 |
Expense |
Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Meal Plan (Required for most students) |
$7,500 - $8,000 per year |
|
Laundry Facilities |
Included in housing fee |
|
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet) |
Included in housing fee |
Bucknell fosters a tight-knit, welcoming community where students and faculty build close relationships. The university prides itself on maintaining a collaborative and supportive environment, allowing students to thrive academically and socially. Students benefit from small class sizes, personal interactions with professors, and strong peer networks.
Bucknell is a residential university, meaning nearly all students live on campus for their four years of study. The residential experience is an integral part of student life, and the university provides a variety of housing options, such as traditional residence halls, suite-style housing, affinity housing (shared-interest communities), and apartment-style housing for upperclassmen. Residence halls are equipped with lounges, study rooms, and other amenities that encourage social interaction and community building.
Bucknell offers diverse dining facilities that cater to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. Students can enjoy freshly prepared meals at dining halls, grab a quick snack at campus cafés, or take advantage of meal plans tailored to their needs. The university is committed to offering sustainable and locally sourced food whenever possible.
With over 200 student-run clubs and organizations, Bucknell offers numerous ways for students to get involved. Clubs range from academic, cultural, and professional organizations to recreational, artistic, and service-oriented groups. Popular clubs include the International Students Association (ISA), Bucknell Student Government, theater and music groups, and the Outdoor Education & Leadership Program (OEL).
Greek life plays a significant role at Bucknell, with about 50% of students participating in fraternities and sororities. Greek organizations at Bucknell focus on leadership, community service, and fostering a sense of belonging among members. While Greek life is prominent, the campus offers plenty of opportunities for students who do not join Greek organizations.
Bucknell has a vibrant arts scene, offering students opportunities to explore and express their creativity. The university's Weis Center for the Performing Arts hosts concerts, plays, dance performances, and lectures. Students can also participate in theater productions, music ensembles, or visual arts exhibitions. Campus events like film screenings, poetry readings, and open mic nights add to the rich cultural life.
Bucknell’s athletic teams, known as the Bison, compete in the NCAA Division I Patriot League. The university offers 27 varsity sports, including basketball, soccer, swimming, and track & field. For those not involved in varsity sports, there are numerous intramural and club sports, such as ultimate frisbee, rugby, and skiing.
The university also has excellent fitness and recreation facilities, including a modern gym, swimming pools, and outdoor recreational spaces.
Located in the scenic town of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Bucknell offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Students can take advantage of the nearby Susquehanna River for kayaking and canoeing, hike in the surrounding state parks, or participate in the Outdoor Education & Leadership Program, which organizes adventure trips like camping, rock climbing, and skiing.
Bucknell provides a wide range of support services to ensure student success and well-being, including:
Academic Support: Peer tutoring, writing center, and academic advising.
Career Development Center: Offers career counseling, internship opportunities, resume workshops, and networking events.
Health and Wellness Services: On-campus medical center, counseling services, and wellness programs focused on mental and physical health.
Office of International Student Services (OISS): Assists international students with visas, cultural adjustment, and academic support.
Bucknell students actively participate in campus traditions and annual events, which help foster school spirit and community. Some popular traditions include:
First Night: A celebratory event for first-year students to mark the start of their Bucknell journey.
Homecoming and Family Weekend: A time for alumni and families to visit campus and participate in various events, including sports and performances.
Chrysalis Ball: A formal dance hosted by Bucknell Student Government.
Fall and Spring Concerts: Performances by well-known artists and bands, organized by the Bucknell Concert Committee.
Bucknell encourages students to engage with the local community and take part in service-learning projects. Many students volunteer at nearby schools, non-profits, and community organizations, building connections beyond the campus. Programs like the Bucknell Public Interest Program (BPIP) connect students with internships and jobs in public service fields.
Bucknell is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus environment. Students from all over the world bring different perspectives and experiences to the university. Bucknell supports diversity through various cultural organizations, events, and resource centers, such as the T.E.A.M. (Together Everyone Achieves More) mentoring program and the Multicultural Student Services office.
High Placement Rate:
97% of Bucknell graduates are employed, in graduate school, or engaged in other meaningful activities (e.g., fellowships or military service) within 9 months of graduation.
Top Employers:
Bucknell graduates are highly sought after by top companies and organizations across industries. Some of the notable employers hiring Bucknell graduates include:
Goldman Sachs
Deloitte
Accenture
Amazon
Lockheed Martin
General Electric (GE)
JP Morgan Chase
Johnson & Johnson
PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
Graduate School Admission:
A significant number of Bucknell graduates pursue further education at prestigious institutions, including:
Harvard University
Stanford University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
University of Pennsylvania
Columbia University
Johns Hopkins University
Freeman College of Management:
Graduates in business, finance, and management fields consistently secure roles in top firms, particularly in consulting, banking, and marketing. Popular roles include:
Financial Analyst
Business Consultant
Marketing Associate
Investment Banker
College of Engineering:
Bucknell's engineering graduates are highly recruited for technical and leadership roles. Common job titles include:
Mechanical Engineer
Civil Engineer
Software Engineer
Environmental Consultant
College of Arts & Sciences:
Graduates from liberal arts programs find opportunities in a variety of fields, such as education, media, public service, and technology. Popular career paths include:
Data Analyst
Teacher/Educator
Research Assistant
Policy Analyst
Bucknell's Career Development Center (CDC) plays a key role in student placements by offering:
Internship Opportunities:
Over 85% of Bucknell students complete at least one internship during their undergraduate studies.
Internships are facilitated through career fairs, employer connections, and Bucknell’s alumni network.
On-Campus Recruiting:
More than 200 employers visit campus annually to recruit Bucknell students for internships, co-op programs, and full-time positions.
Networking Events:
The university hosts career fairs, industry panels, and networking events where students connect with potential employers and Bucknell alumni.
Personalized Career Counseling:
Career advisors assist students with resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Students also receive guidance on exploring career paths and graduate school options.
Handshake Platform:
Bucknell uses Handshake, an online platform that connects students to job and internship opportunities and helps them apply directly to employers.
The acceptance rate at Bucknell University is 33% to 38%, making it a selective institution. This means that about one-third of applicants are admitted, depending on the year and the competitiveness of the applicant pool.
Bucknell's admissions process is holistic, meaning they consider several factors when evaluating applications, including:
Academic Performance:
Strong high school GPA (most admitted students have a GPA of 3.6 to 4.0).
Rigorous coursework (AP, IB, honors classes are preferred).
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
SAT (if submitted): Middle 50% range is 1280–1440.
ACT (if submitted): Middle 50% range is 28–32.
Note: Bucknell is test-optional, meaning submitting test scores is not mandatory.
Essays and Personal Statements:
Compelling, well-written essays that reflect your personality and goals are highly important.
Extracurricular Activities:
Leadership roles, community service, and involvement in clubs, sports, or the arts.
Letters of Recommendation:
Strong recommendations from teachers and counselors who can attest to your academic and personal strengths.
Demonstrated Interest:
Visiting the campus, attending Bucknell events, or communicating with admissions counselors can positively impact your application.
Address:
Bucknell University
One Dent Drive
Lewisburg, PA 17837, USA
Proximity to Major Cities:
Harrisburg, PA: ~1 hour by car (50 miles)
Philadelphia, PA: ~2.5 hours by car (150 miles)
New York City, NY: ~3.5 hours by car (170 miles)
Washington, D.C.: ~3.5 hours by car (180 miles)
Town of Lewisburg:
Lewisburg is a historic and charming small town with a vibrant downtown area, offering a range of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
The town is known for its welcoming and safe environment, making it an ideal location for students to live and study.
Natural Surroundings:
The campus is surrounded by rolling hills, green spaces, and the scenic Susquehanna River, offering students opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and cycling.
