Pennsylvania State University – Full Review

Overview

Pennsylvania State University, commonly referred to as Penn State, is a public research university located in State College, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1855 as the Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania, and later became the Pennsylvania State College in 1862. The university is now one of the largest and most highly respected institutions of higher education in the United States, with over 46,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled across its 24 campuses.

History

Penn State’s founding dates back to the mid-19th century, when Pennsylvania’s state legislature established the Farmers’ High School of Pennsylvania in 1855. The aim of this institution was to provide practical education in agricultural and mechanical subjects to the state’s citizens. In 1862, the school was renamed the Pennsylvania State College and expanded its curriculum to include engineering and liberal arts. The college became a full-fledged university in 1953 and has since grown into one of the most prominent and well-respected universities in America.

Organization

Penn State is organized into several colleges and schools, each of which offers a unique range of academic programs and research opportunities. These include the College of Agricultural Sciences, the College of Arts and Architecture, the Smeal College of Business, the Bellisario College of Communications, the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, the College of Education, the College of Engineering, the College of Health and Human Development, the College of Information Sciences and Technology, the Dickinson Law School, the Penn State Law School, the College of the Liberal Arts, the College of Medicine, the College of Nursing, the College of Science, the College of the Liberal Arts, and the Graduate School.

Campus

The main campus of Penn State is located in State College, Pennsylvania, and covers over 5,000 acres. In addition to its academic buildings, the campus is home to several sports facilities, including the Beaver Stadium and the Bryce Jordan Center. Students can also enjoy a variety of dining options, recreational activities, and cultural events on campus.

Academics

Penn State is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in engineering, business, agriculture, and communications. The university offers over 160 undergraduate majors, more than 200 graduate degree programs, and several professional and doctoral programs. Penn State is also home to several research centers and institutes, with research spanning areas such as materials science, neurosciences, and energy.

Colleges and Schools

– College of Agricultural Sciences
– College of Arts and Architecture
– Smeal College of Business
– Bellisario College of Communications
– College of Earth and Mineral Sciences
– College of Education
– College of Engineering
– College of Health and Human Development
– College of Information Sciences and Technology
– Dickinson Law School
– Penn State Law School
– College of the Liberal Arts
– College of Medicine
– College of Nursing
– College of Science
– Graduate School

Student life

Penn State has a vibrant and diverse student community, with over 46,000 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled across its 24 campuses. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and organizations. The university also offers student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and health and wellness programs.

Athletics

Penn State is known for its strong athletic programs, with its football team being particularly well-known. The university is a member of the Big Ten Conference and fields teams in a variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and hockey.

Notable alumni

Penn State has produced many notable alumni, including actors such as Keegan-Michael Key and John Ratzenberger, athletes such as Franco Harris and Kerry Collins, politicians such as Rick Santorum and Tom Ridge, and business leaders such as Kevin Shenkman and V. James Marino.

University Profile