
Founded in 1855, Pennsylvania State University is a public, state-related land-grant research university. Penn State has campuses throughout the state, including the main campus located in University Park. The university has threefold missions of research, teaching and service. The school's academic programs are focused on agriculture, engineering, life sciences, and technical and scientific fields.
The university's vision is to create a vibrant global community. Its strategy focuses on developing strategic partnerships worldwide, enhancing diversity, and increasing access. The school also seeks to increase efficiencies and control costs. In addition to its main campus, the university has 19 branch campuses across the state. The school also provides continuing education through resident instruction.
The school's mascot is the Nittany Lion, a mountain lion. Its official colors are black and dark pink. The Penn State Thespians are the oldest continuously active student-run organization on campus. Since 1898, they have performed theatre at University Park.
The university's student-run media includes The Underground, Kalliope, and Onward State. Students write opinion pieces, give event coverage, and cover news and events.
The school is home to one of the top business schools in the US. The Wharton School is ranked first by US News for undergraduate and graduate programs. The school's athletic programs include women's lacrosse and men's volleyball, which compete in the Colonial Athletic Association and Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association. The wrestling team is nationally recognized.
The university's research and development expenditure has been increasing over the last several years. In fiscal year 2007, the National Science Foundation reported that Penn State spent $652,144,000 on R&D. This is only a portion of the institution's overall research budget.
The university is also a leader in innovation. Its Graduate Program in Acoustics is the only acoustics program in the United States. The university is also a member of the Ivy League. It is one of the most selective universities in the nation.
Its campus has more than 68 club sport organizations. Some of the more popular lectures may have class sizes of 300. The Penn State Blue Band performs at halftime during football games. The Penn State Glee Club has traveled to various destinations across the world. Its annual spring break tour has reached a broad audience.
The university hosts scholars from around the globe. Its research promotes human development, economic development, and the advancement of knowledge and understanding. It has received more than $1 billion in research expenditures from industry. It also promotes sustainability efforts, provides opportunities for career development, and improves health through patient care.
The university has a vibrant social scene. It hosts cool parties, and is known for its Greek life. The student union, The Hub, is open 24 hours a day. A variety of housing options are available to students. Rent includes utilities and cable. Some single-student apartments house four students in four-bedroom apartments. There are also two-bedroom apartments and a handful of one-bedroom apartments.
The University of Pennsylvania is located in Philadelphia, about two hours away from New York City. It is home to one of the top business schools and has a great social scene.