Penn State University

Penn State is in the top 1 percent of universities worldwide. It has the largest alumni network in the nation. Founded in 1855, it combines academic rigor with a vibrant campus life. A nationally recognized Research-I institution, Penn State teaches students to be leaders with a global perspective.

Mission

Penn State is a multi-campus public research university that improves the lives of the people of Pennsylvania, the nation and the world through integrated, high-quality programs in teaching, research, and service.

Our instructional mission includes undergraduate, graduate, professional and continuing and distance education informed by scholarship and research.

Our research, scholarship, and creative activities promote human and economic development through the expansion of knowledge and its applications in the natural and applied sciences, social sciences, arts, humanities, and professions.

WHAT WE DO BEST

We teach students to be leaders with a global perspective. We conduct research to improve lives. We add millions to the economy through projects in our state and beyond. We help communities by sharing our faculty expertise and research.

We have campuses from one side of the state to the other. It's convenient to go to Penn State no matter where you are. In-state students can commute from home or live on their own. Out-of-state and international students find welcoming communities at our campuses, including some that have services dedicated specifically to them. Through Penn State World Campus, students can take courses and work towards degrees online from anywhere on the globe that has Internet service.

We support students through, among other things, advising and counseling services for school and life; diversity and inclusion services; social media sites; safety services; and emergency assistance.

Our network of more than a half-million alumni is accessible to students when they want advice, job networking and mentor opportunities, and information about what to expect in the future. We have graduates all over the world, ready to help.

The best part of Penn State is our people--our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and residents in communities around our campuses. The people who study and work at here every day are dedicated to learning and fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.

YOUR PENN STATE LIFE

As a prospective student, are you looking for a university that balances academic rigor with a student experience rich in opportunities? Found it!

• Your life at Penn State will be an incredibly wonderful time when you'll meet friends you'll have for life. You'll be among your peers, all with a common understanding of what it's like to be preparing for the fast-forward world of your future.
• You'll work hard in your courses and learn that you're working for your knowledge and career, not just to pass tests. Our academic programs are dedicated to creating leaders. Put simply, we want our students to succeed.
• Out of the classroom? Clubs and organizations range from A to Z, including intramural and varsity sports. Entertainment and cultural events are happening all the time. Every campus is a lively, fun place to be.
• The diversity of our student population and faculty make for a wonderful mix of cultures and interesting conversations. And you can discover even more diversity by participating in educational opportunities across the globe.
• Your time at Penn State can be some of the best years of your life. Your shared experiences help you grow and stand ready to contribute to the world.

Attractions

• Berkey Creamery
• The Arboretum at Penn State
• Penn State Golf Courses
• Museums
• Shaver's Creek Environmental Center

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