Western New England University (WNE) is a private, coeducational institution located in Springfield, Massachusetts. Founded in 1919, WNE offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, sciences, business, engineering, and law. The university is known for its commitment to experiential learning and its close ties to the business community.
Campus Map
The WNE campus is situated on 225 acres of land in the Riverdale neighborhood of Springfield. The campus is divided into two main sections: the North Campus and the South Campus.
North Campus
The North Campus is home to the majority of the university’s academic buildings, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, the College of Engineering, and the School of Law. The North Campus also includes a number of residence halls, dining facilities, and athletic fields.
South Campus
The South Campus is home to the university’s School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. The South Campus also includes a number of research facilities, including the Center for Excellence in Cancer Research and Treatment and the Center for Orthopaedic Research and Education.
Key Buildings
Some of the most notable buildings on the WNE campus include:
- Academic Quadrangle: The Academic Quadrangle is the heart of the North Campus. It is home to the University Library, the Admissions Office, and a number of academic buildings.
- Berte Center: The Berte Center is a state-of-the-art recreation and fitness facility. It includes a gymnasium, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.
- Commonwealth Honors College: The Commonwealth Honors College is a residential college for high-achieving students. It offers a rigorous academic program and a variety of enrichment opportunities.
- Hodgkinson Hall: Hodgkinson Hall is the home of the College of Business. It includes a number of classrooms, lecture halls, and computer labs.
- University Library: The University Library is a four-story building that houses over 500,000 volumes. It also provides access to a variety of electronic resources.
Transportation
The WNE campus is easily accessible by car, bus, and train. The university provides a free shuttle service that runs between the North Campus and the South Campus. The shuttle also stops at a number of off-campus locations, including the Springfield Union Station.
Parking
There are a number of parking options available on the WNE campus. Students, faculty, and staff can purchase parking permits that allow them to park in designated areas. There are also a number of pay-by-space parking lots available.
Safety
The WNE campus is a safe and secure environment. The university has a 24-hour police department that patrols the campus and provides security services. The university also has a number of safety programs in place, including a rape prevention program and a self-defense class.
Student Life
WNE offers a vibrant student life experience. The university has over 100 student clubs and organizations, including academic clubs, athletic clubs, and social clubs. The university also has a number of student events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events, and cultural events.
Athletics
WNE competes in the NCAA Division III New England Collegiate Conference (NECC). The university has 21 varsity sports teams, including baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field, and volleyball.
Academics
WNE offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university’s undergraduate programs are offered in the following areas:
- Arts and Humanities
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Law
- Science
The university’s graduate programs are offered in the following areas:
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Law
- Science
Admission
Admission to WNE is competitive. The university accepts applications from students of all backgrounds. The university’s average SAT score is 1150 and the average ACT score is 26. The university also considers a student’s high school GPA, class rank, and extracurricular activities.
Tuition and Financial Aid
The cost of tuition at WNE is $38,570 per year. The university offers a variety of financial aid programs, including scholarships, grants, and loans. The university also has a number of payment plans available.
Rankings
WNE is ranked among the top regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report. The university is also ranked among the top universities in Massachusetts by Forbes.
Notable Alumni
WNE has a number of notable alumni, including:
- Ernie Boch Jr.: Founder and CEO of Boch Automotive Group
- Steve Carell: Actor and comedian
- John Cena: Professional wrestler and actor
- James P. Comer: U.S. Representative from Kentucky
- David E. Kelley: Television producer and writer
- Kevin Mannix: President and CEO of MassMutual
- Dennis Lehane: Author and screenwriter
- John W. McCormack: Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives
- David Ortiz: Former Major League Baseball player
- Harold Washington: Former Mayor of Chicago
Conclusion
Western New England University is a vibrant and diverse institution that offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. The university is committed to providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their careers and personal lives.
