Penn State's Flagship Campus: University Park
Penn State's main campus, and arguably its most recognizable, is located in State College, Pennsylvania, a borough in Centre County. University Park is often referred to simply as "Penn State" and is home to the majority of the university's undergraduate and graduate programs.
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania's scenic Nittany Valley, University Park offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with a mix of rural charm and urban amenities. The sprawling campus boasts iconic landmarks like the Old Main administration building and Beaver Stadium, one of the largest stadiums in the world.
Address: Old Main, University Park, PA 16802
For directions and maps, you can visit the official Penn State Maps website.
Beyond University Park: The Commonwealth Campuses
Penn State's commitment to accessibility and educational reach extends beyond University Park through its network of 20 Commonwealth Campuses strategically located throughout Pennsylvania. These campuses offer a more intimate learning environment with smaller class sizes and personalized attention from faculty.
Students can begin their Penn State journey at a Commonwealth Campus and seamlessly transition to University Park to complete their degree. This "2+2" plan allows students to experience the benefits of both a smaller campus setting and the resources of a major research university.
Here's a glimpse at some of the Commonwealth Campuses:
- Penn State Abington
- Penn State Altoona
- Penn State Beaver
- Penn State Berks
- Penn State Brandywine
- Penn State DuBois
- Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus
- Penn State Greater Allegheny
- Penn State Harrisburg
- Penn State Hazleton
- Penn State Lehigh Valley
- Penn State Mont Alto
- Penn State New Kensington
- Penn State Schuylkill
- Penn State Shenango
- Penn State Wilkes-Barre
- Penn State Worthington Scranton
- Penn State York
For specific addresses and contact information for each campus, please visit the official Penn State locations page.
Penn State's Online Presence: World Campus
Penn State's commitment to education transcends geographical boundaries through its World Campus. This online platform offers a wide range of accredited undergraduate and graduate degree programs, certificates, and courses, making a Penn State education accessible to students worldwide.
World Campus leverages cutting-edge technology to deliver a high-quality online learning experience, connecting students with renowned faculty and fostering a vibrant online community.
Getting to Penn State University Park
Traveling to University Park is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options available:
- By Car: State College is accessible via major highways like I-80 and I-99. Ample parking is available on campus, although permits are required.
- By Air: The University Park Airport (SCE) offers convenient access to campus with direct flights to several major cities. Other nearby airports include Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) and Altoona-Blair County Airport (AOO).
- By Bus: Several bus companies, including Greyhound and Fullington Trailways, provide service to State College.
- By Train: Amtrak offers train service to nearby Lewistown, with connecting bus service to State College.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Beyond the campus itself, the surrounding area offers a wealth of activities and attractions. From hiking and biking trails in the scenic Nittany Mountains to exploring the vibrant downtown State College area, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Local attractions include:
- The Arboretum at Penn State
- Mount Nittany
- Penn's Cave & Wildlife Park
- The Palmer Museum of Art
Why Choose Penn State?
Penn State's reputation for academic excellence, combined with its vibrant campus life and research opportunities, makes it a top choice for students worldwide. Whether you choose to study at University Park, a Commonwealth Campus, or online through World Campus, you'll become part of a thriving community of learners and scholars.
With its diverse range of academic programs, cutting-edge research facilities, and commitment to student success, Penn State offers a truly transformative educational experience.
Penn State's Rich History and Traditions
Founded in 1855 as the Farmers' High School of Pennsylvania, Penn State has evolved into a world-renowned institution. Its history is steeped in tradition, from the iconic Nittany Lion mascot to the annual Homecoming celebration. Exploring the university's rich history adds another dimension to the Penn State experience. The university archives and museums offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Student Life at Penn State
Penn State's vibrant student life offers a wide range of activities and organizations catering to diverse interests. From athletics and arts to community service and cultural events, there's something for everyone to get involved in. The university's numerous clubs and organizations provide opportunities for leadership development, networking, and personal growth. The sense of community and school spirit is palpable, creating a truly memorable college experience.
Research and Innovation at Penn State
Penn State is a leading research institution, contributing to advancements in various fields, from medicine and engineering to agriculture and the humanities. The university's commitment to research and innovation provides students with unparalleled opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects and work alongside world-renowned faculty. This focus on research not only enhances the learning experience but also contributes to solving real-world problems.