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Overview of Penn State University

Mission Statement

Penn State University Logo
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Penn State is a multicampus public research university that educates students from Pennsylvania, the nation and the world, and improves the well being and health of individuals and communities through integrated programs of teaching, research, and service.

Our instructional mission includes undergraduate, graduate, professional, and continuing education offered through both resident instruction and online delivery. Our educational programs are enriched by the cutting edge knowledge, diversity, and creativity of our faculty, students, and staff.

Our research, scholarship, and creative activity promote human and economic development, global understanding, and progress in professional practice through the expansion of knowledge and its applications in the natural and applied sciences, social sciences, arts, humanities, and the professions.

As Pennsylvania's land-grant university, we provide unparalleled access and public service to support the citizens of the Commonwealth. We engage in collaborative activities with industrial, educational, and agricultural partners here and abroad to generate, disseminate, integrate, and apply knowledge that is valuable to society.

Quick Facts

45,233 students

55% admitted

$15,124 tuition/year

  • 43,106 full time
  • 2,127 part time
  • 23,593 men full time
  • 19,513 women full time
  • 41,545 applied
  • 22,761 admitted
  • 7,262 enrolled
  • $27,206 out of state
  • $860 fees
  • $9,432 room & board
  • $1,536 books

Social Stream

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At a Glance

Institution Type: Public
Campus Setting: Small city
Highest Degree Offered: Doctor's degree - research/scholarship and professional practice
Level of Institution: Four or more years
Calendar: Semester
School Colors: Blue and white
45,233 Students
Non-Degree Undergrads Graduates
Reviews: In Three Sentences
  • Michelle
  • 0
  • “Penn State was a large beautiful school. It offered many different fields for students to choose to major in. There were many activities to do, organizations to join, and people…”

  • Jan-07-2012 » Read More
  • Emma from Pittsburgh, PA
  • 0
  • “Penn State is active and vibrant, something is always going on. Penn State is an intelligent and thinking school. Penn State in State College is it's own little bubble and feels like…”

  • Jan-13-2012 » Read More
  • Sara from Browns Mills, NJ
  • 0
  • “This school is amazing. They have every club and class you can imagine. They even hold events sponsored by the student organizations to make sure everybody becomes involved.…”

  • Jan-17-2012 » Read More

Reviews

Student Responses to Review Topic: Am I Enjoying Being Here
  • 5
  • Natalie from Delafield, WI
  • Jan-04-2012 I am a current student here

    Being at PSU is quite the experience. I love the campus life, there is always something going on and something for everyone. Whether it be a Tuesday night or a Saturday night, Penn State is alive from morning til late night.

    » Read More
  • 5
  • Kelly from Laurel, MD
  • Dec-30-2011 I am a current student here

    Narrowing down which college I would attend was a tough process last year, but after attending one semester at Penn State, I can't imagine being anywhere else. This school and community is a home away from home where your floor mates become your best friends, study partners, and family. The classes, professors, and resources are great, while the social aspect is more than I could have ever imagined. Though I have only been here one semester, I have seen school spirit like no other, and the Lion’s pride I feel is something I know will never fade.

    » Read More