Pennsylvania State University

State College, PA 16801, USA

University Type

Public

Pennsylvania,

United States

Year Established:

1863

Penn State, founded in 1855 as an agricultural college, admitted its first class in 1859. The Pennsylvania legislature designated Penn State as the Commonwealth's sole land-grant institution in 1863, which eventually broadened the University  mission to include teaching, research, and public service in many academic disciplines. Penn State has awarded more than a half-million degrees, and has been Pennsylvania's largest source of baccalaureate degrees at least since the 1930s. Although the University is privately chartered by the Commonwealth, it was from the outset considered an instrumentality of the state, that is, it carries out many of the functions of a public institution and promotes the general welfare of the citizenry. The Governor and other representatives of the Commonwealth have held seats on Penn State's Board of Trustees since the University founding, and the legislature has made regular appropriations in support of the University's mission since 1887. Today Penn State is one of four state-related universities (along with the University of Pittsburgh, Temple University, and Lincoln University), institutions that are not state-owned and -operated but that have the character of public universities and receive substantial state appropriations. With its administrative and research at the University Park campus, Penn State has 23 additional locations across Pennsylvania and Penn State World Campus, which provides on-line degree offerings. While some of the these locations, such as the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, have specialized academic roles, they all adhere to a common overall mission and set of core values and strategic goals.

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Rankings

#84

USNews

#83

QS

Pennsylvania State University Program Rankings

  • Industrial Engineering (UG) - Rank #9 (US News)

  • Biological Engineering (UG) - Rank #10 (US News)

  • Mechanical Engineering (PhD) - Rank #15 (US News)

  • Aerospace Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Architectural Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Biomedical Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Chemical Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Civil Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Computer Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Computer Science (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Data Sciences (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Electrical Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Engineering Science (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Mechanical Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Nuclear Engineering (UG) - Rank #19 (US News)

  • Computer Science & Engineering (PhD) - Rank #22 (US News)

  • Electrical Engineering (Masters) - Rank #25 (US News)

  • Computer Science & Engineering (Masters) - Rank #27 (US News)

  • Electrical Engineering (PhD) - Rank #31 (US News)

  • Biomedical Engineering (PhD) - Rank #38 (US News)

  • Accounting (Masters) - Rank #76 (QS)

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Pennsylvania State University Highlights

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FAQs

What are the most popular graduate programs offered at Pennsylvania State University?

Pennsylvania State University offers a diverse range of popular graduate programs including Engineering, Business Administration, Law, Education, and Medicine. The university's College of Engineering and Smeal College of Business are particularly renowned, drawing students globally for their rigorous curriculum and extensive research opportunities.

What is the Annual Cost of attendance at Pennsylvania State University?

The annual cost of attendance for an international graduate student at Pennsylvania State University typically includes tuition fees of approximately $38,000 USD and living costs around $16,000 USD, totaling around $54,000 USD. Converting this to Indian Rupees, at an exchange rate of approximately 83 INR to 1 USD, the total cost would be around ₹44,82,000 INR.

What Financial aid and scholarship options are available at Pennsylvania State University?

Pennsylvania State University offers various financial aid options including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. International students can apply for scholarships such as the Global Penn State Scholarship. Prospective students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and explore the university’s financial aid website for specific scholarships relevant to their field of study.

What is the reputation and ranking of Pennsylvania State University?

Pennsylvania State University is highly regarded, consistently ranking among top universities globally. Specific program rankings include its Engineering programs often ranked in the top 20 nationally, and its Business School, particularly the Smeal MBA, frequently appearing in top 30 U.S. business school rankings. This strong academic reputation underscores Penn State's commitment to excellence.

What is the campus culture like at Pennsylvania State University?

The campus culture at Pennsylvania State University is vibrant and diverse, featuring numerous cultural fests like the Mosaic Concert and Global Fest, alongside student-run events such as Penn State Homecoming and THON, the largest student-run philanthropy. The university also boasts over 1,000 student organizations, including sports clubs, academic societies, and cultural groups, ensuring a rich and engaging student life.

What are the housing options at Pennsylvania State University?

Pennsylvania State University offers a variety of on-campus housing options, including traditional residence halls, suites, and special living options focusing on academic interests and lifestyles. For off-campus housing, popular areas include State College, which provides a range of apartments and townhouses, and the nearby town of Bellefonte, known for its charming rentals and community atmosphere.

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Pennsylvania State University Fun Facts

  • The Nittany Lion Shrine

    The Nittany Lion Shrine is one of the most photographed spots on campus. It was a gift from the class of 1940.

  • The Creamery's Ice Cream

    Penn State's Berkey Creamery is the largest university creamery in the nation, often developing flavors inspired by alumni and notable figures.

  • The "S-Zone"

    During football games, students in the "S-Zone" wear shirts creating a blue and white "S" in the stands, showcasing immense school spirit at Beaver Stadium.

  • THON: The Dance Marathon

    Penn State hosts THON, the world's largest student-run philanthropy, which raises millions annually for pediatric cancer research and support at the Hershey Medical Center.