Higher Education in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's rich diversity makes it an ideal destination for international students. From the gleaming urban centers of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to the breathtaking natural beauty found throughout its rural heartland, the state has something to suit everyone's taste.
The educational opportunities found here are almost boundless. The network of community colleges, state-owned and state-related universities, and private colleges and universities offers international students virtually unlimited educational opportunities. With more than 100 institutions of higher learning from which to choose, the most difficult decision a student may have to make is which one to attend.
Pennsylvania's colleges and universities are at the cutting edge of technology, providing students with the tools they need to succeed in the rapidly changing global economy.
PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES
Pennsylvania has 14 public universities, which comprise the State System of Higher Education. Each of these comprehensive universities offers an array of undergraduate and graduate programs, many of which enjoy national and international reputations. All offer master's degree programs and Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) also awards doctorates. Many include student exchange programs to encourage their students to study abroad while offering students from other countries the opportunity to study in the U.S.
IUP enrolls the largest number of international students, followed by Slippery Rock and Kutztown Universities of Pennsylvania. The other State System universities are Bloomsburg, California, Cheyney, Clarion, East Stroudsburg, Edinboro, Lock Haven, Mansfield, Millersville, Shippensburg, and West Chester Universities of Pennsylvania.
As teaching institutions, the State System universities focus on students first. At all 14 universities, students have the opportunity to learn from full professors in many, if not most, of their classes, beginning with their freshmen years. With more than 95,000 students, the State System is Pennsylvania's largest provider of higher education. Combined, the 14 universities offer more than 250 degree and certificate programs in more than 120 areas of study.
STATE-RELATED UNIVERSITIES
Four universities in Pennsylvania are classified as state-related because they receive a significant amount of state support. They include three large research institutions: Pennsylvania State University, Temple University, and the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt), as well as Lincoln University, one of two historically black colleges in the Commonwealth (the other is Cheyney University).
Penn State, Temple and Pitt offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs including both medical and law schools. Students have the opportunity to participate in major research programs with renowned scientists as part of their studies.
Lincoln University, near Philadelphia, offers varied bachelor's
degrees and a master's degree in human services. It has a long and
rich history of attracting international students to its programs.
PRIVATE COLLEGES
Nearly 100 private colleges and universities operate in Pennsylvania, many of which include large international programs. Students may choose from campuses situated in the heart of Pennsylvania's major cities to those nestled in the many rural communities that dot the state's landscape.
The independent institutions include some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in America, including the University of Pennsylvania, a member of the elite "Ivy League," and Carnegie Mellon University, a top scientific research center. Among the other private schools are institutions that specialize in engineering, healthcare, and virtually every other major field of study.
COMMUNITY COLLEGES
Pennsylvania has 15 community colleges, which often serve as the starting point for students as they head off to college. The schools also provide a wide array of career and technical training programs that prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce or that help mid-career professionals keep their skills up to date or learn new ones. Community colleges are an economical way for people to continue their education throughout their lifetime.
Rich History—and More
While you're in Pennsylvania, you'll want to take advantage of the rich history the state has to offer. Home of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia is considered the birthplace of American Democracy. Gettysburg National Military Park is the site of the three-day battle that was the turning point of the U.S. Civil War and Pittsburgh's Golden Triangle was America's original "Gateway to the West."
There is much more to the Keystone State than history. The Poconos in the East and Laurel Mountains in the West offer great downhill skiing in the winter, while Presque Isle State Park near Erie provides beach lovers the opportunity to soak up the warm summer breezes. All across Pennsylvania are unique natural wonders that can be enjoyed on any weekend when you feel you just have to get away from books. And if you really like to kick back and have some fun, Pennsylvania and its nearby neighbors are home to more amusement parks than anywhere else in the world. Roller coaster fans will find some of the best rides around at such places as Kennywood, Dorney Park, Hersheypark and Knoebels.
Pennsylvania is an ideal place to study, learn, and have fun — a perfect combination.