Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College
Acceptance rate
96.8%
2025
Out-of-state tuition
$26,958
In-state $15,972
Undergraduates
3,244
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Graduation rate
28.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 42.1%
About
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College, often simply referred to as Penn State Behrend, is a prominent institution located in Erie, Pennsylvania. Established in 1948, it has grown into a vibrant college that offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. One of the distinctive features of Penn State Behrend is its focus on providing a comprehensive education that combines both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The college emphasizes hands-on learning through its various programs, particularly in engineering, business, and computer science, which are designed to prepare students for real-world challenges. The state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories and a well-equipped library, enhance the academic experience, allowing students to engage deeply with their fields of study.
The campus culture at Penn State Behrend is rich and diverse, promoting a strong sense of community among students, faculty, and staff. The college encourages student involvement in various extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and student organizations, fostering a well-rounded college experience. The university's commitment to student success is reflected in its supportive faculty, who are dedicated to mentoring and guiding students throughout their academic journeys. Additionally, Penn State Behrend's strategic location near Lake Erie provides students with unique opportunities for outdoor activities and internships in the surrounding industrial and business hubs. Graduates from Penn State Behrend are well-regarded in the job market, thanks to the college's emphasis on career readiness and its strong connections with local businesses and industries. Overall, Penn State Behrend stands out as an institution that not only prioritizes academic excellence but also cultivates a vibrant and engaging community for its students.
Analysis of Key Trends in Educational Data
The data from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College reveals several notable trends that reflect the evolving landscape of higher education. One significant aspect is the rising tuition costs. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition increased from $14,240 to $15,944, while out-of-state tuition rose from $21,302 to $26,668. This trend aligns with the national concern over escalating college expenses, which can deter prospective students and lead to increased student debt.
Furthermore, the student population has shown considerable fluctuations. For instance, undergraduate enrollment peaked in 2017 with 4,420 students but saw a drastic decline to just 3,188 by 2023. This drop may be attributed to various factors, including changes in demographics, economic conditions, or external events like the pandemic, which significantly disrupted higher education.
The graduation rates also present a concerning narrative. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fell dramatically from approximately 43% in 2013 to just 28% in 2023. This decline raises alarms about the effectiveness of retention strategies and support systems in place for students, particularly in a challenging academic environment.
Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates shows a prevailing trend of higher male enrollment, with males constituting around 64% in recent years. This disparity indicates a need for outreach and support initiatives aimed at increasing female participation in STEM and other traditionally male-dominated fields.
In summary, the data underscores critical challenges faced by higher education institutions, including rising costs, fluctuating enrollment, declining graduation rates, and gender disparities. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Buffalo, about 80 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), about 90 mi
- Also known as
- Behrend College
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Ralph M. Ford (Chancellor and Dean)
- Phone
- 8148986160
- City
- Erie, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 4701 College Drive, Erie, PA 16563-0001
Rankings & Admission
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2023: men 94.8%, women 96.1%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Penn State Erie-Behrend College
The admission data from Penn State Erie-Behrend College reveals significant trends in the acceptance rates and enrollment figures over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown an overall upward trajectory, culminating in 2023 with an impressive acceptance rate of approximately 94.8% for males and 96.1% for females. This indicates an increasingly inclusive approach to admissions, likely in response to growing competition among institutions to attract a diverse student body.
Additionally, the number of enrollees has fluctuated over the years, with a peak enrollment of 1,186 students in 2015, followed by a gradual decline until 2023, when enrollment dropped to 829. This decline could reflect broader demographic trends in higher education, such as a decrease in the number of high school graduates in certain regions or changing student preferences for programs offered.
The rejection and deferment rates, too, offer insight into the admissions strategy of the college. The number of denied applicants has decreased over the years, suggesting a shift towards accommodating more students. However, the high number of deferred applicants—particularly in years like 2015 and 2016—indicates that the college may be managing its enrollment capacity carefully, allowing flexibility for those who may not be ready to commit immediately.
In conclusion, the data highlights a college adapting to the evolving landscape of higher education, balancing the dual goals of maintaining academic standards while also ensuring accessibility for prospective students. The continuous effort to refine admissions strategies will be crucial as the institution navigates future challenges and opportunities in higher education.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School4 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 31% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Penn State Erie-Behrend College
The data for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College reveals interesting trends in standardized test scores and submission rates over the years. From 2007 to 2023, we observe a gradual decline in the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores, dropping from 93% to just 34% in 2023. This significant decrease suggests a growing trend of students opting for test-optional admissions, which has become more common in recent years, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many institutions to reassess the role of standardized testing.
Regarding the SAT Reading and Math scores, the 25th percentile scores have shown a slight decrease over the years, indicating that the lower end of admitted students is scoring lower than in previous years. For example, while the 25th percentile SAT Reading score was around 480 in 2007, it has increased to 550 by 2023. This could reflect a more competitive candidate pool, though the 75th percentile scores have also increased, suggesting that higher-performing students are still being admitted.
Moreover, the consistency in the range of scores—especially with a notable score increase in the 75th percentile—illustrates that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to be more academically prepared. This trend aligns with the national discourse around the efficacy of standardized tests in predicting student success and the increasing acceptance of alternative measures of academic readiness.
Overall, this data presents a compelling narrative about the shifting landscape of college admissions, where the focus may be transitioning from standardized test performance to a more holistic evaluation of student potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
6,378 applicants in 2025, 96.8% admitted
6,176 admitted 202 not admitted Yield 14.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's27 (4% international)
- Clinical Psychology · Master's11 (18% international)
- Manufacturing Engineering · Master's7 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Pennsylvania State University - Behrend College
The graduation data from Pennsylvania State University - Behrend College highlights several key trends in various academic disciplines. Notably, Engineering programs dominate the bachelor’s degree offerings, with Mechanical Engineering producing the highest number of graduates (67), closely followed by other engineering disciplines. This trend aligns with the increasing global demand for engineers, especially in fields such as mechanical and electrical engineering, which are crucial for technological advancement.
Moreover, the data reveals a significant presence of international students among graduates. For example, in the Mechanical Engineering program, one international student graduated with a bachelor’s degree. This indicates the college's appeal to a diverse student body, enriching the educational experience through varied perspectives.
In the realm of health sciences, Registered Nursing also shows a strong graduation rate (39), with one international student completing the program. This reflects the ongoing need for healthcare professionals, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has underscored the importance of robust healthcare systems.
Interestingly, business-related programs are also popular, with Finance and Marketing producing 43 and 36 graduates, respectively. These figures highlight the growing interest in business studies, which can be attributed to the evolving job market that increasingly favors versatile skill sets.
Overall, the graduation data underscores the importance of STEM and health-related fields, while also showcasing the college's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for international students. As industries continue to evolve, these trends will likely shape future academic offerings and institutional strategies.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $38,044 | |||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $56,682-$122,042 | |||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | $56,682-$122,042 | |||
| Accounting. | $64,480-$81,321 | |||
| Business/Managerial Economics. | - | |||
| Finance, General. | $52,980-$69,230 | |||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | |||
| Management Information Systems, General. | $65,324-$68,666 | |||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | $63,116 | |||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $58,892 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Engineering, General. | $85,528 | |||
| Computer Software Engineering. | $85,528 | |||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $82,304 | |||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $75,796 | |||
| Polymer/Plastics Engineering. | $74,572 | |||
| Industrial Engineering. | $81,854 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,378 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $82,877-$95,718 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,593 | |||
| Clinical Psychology. | $46,486 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician. | $74,494 | |||
| Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other. | $74,494 | |||
| Mechanical/Mechanical Engineering Technology/Technician. | $58,264-$70,820 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | $70,117 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | $45,444 | |||
| Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia. | $49,422 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Secondary Education and Teaching. | $44,879 | |||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $44,879 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | $60,469 | |||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | $60,469 | |||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $46,124 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | $67,059 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | $47,703 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $37,190 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | $48,918 | |||
| Physics, General. | $55,968 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $35,537 | |||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $34,927-$39,818 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | $40,786 | |||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Women's Studies. | - |
Students
3,336 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 62:38 · Freshman retention 83.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,243
- First-year undergraduates 896
- Graduate students 92
- Transfers and others 105
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,244)
Data insights
Gender and Ethnic Diversity at Penn State Erie in 2023
The student demographic data from Penn State Erie for the year 2023 presents an intriguing look at gender representation and ethnic diversity within its undergraduate and graduate programs. Among the undergraduate newcomers, males represent a significant 62.1% of the population, while females account for 37.9%. This trend continues among upperclassmen, where males make up 65.1% and females 34.9%. The figures suggest a predominance of male students in these categories, a trend that is consistent with many engineering and technical programs across the United States.
Interestingly, the transfer student demographic shows an even higher male proportion at 67.8%, indicating a potential challenge in attracting female transfer students. For graduate students, the male representation is slightly lower at 58.9%, which is somewhat more balanced but still favors males in this academic tier.
Examining the ethnic breakdown within these groups reveals a strong majority of white students, particularly among undergraduates. This is a common theme in many higher education institutions, reflecting broader societal trends in racial and ethnic representation. However, the presence of other ethnic groups, including Asian, Latinx, and African American students, is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment.
Overall, while Penn State Erie showcases a diverse student body, the data highlights a need for ongoing efforts to enhance gender balance and ethnic diversity, particularly in STEM fields. As institutions strive for inclusivity, these statistics serve as a vital benchmark for future recruitment and retention strategies aimed at creating a more equitable academic community.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Penn State Erie
The age demographics of students at Penn State Erie reveal interesting trends in the composition of the student body. A significant portion of the undergraduate population is composed of students under the age of 18 and between 18-19 years old, which together account for about 61.4% of all students. This indicates a strong influx of young students, likely reflecting the college's appeal to recent high school graduates.
As students progress into their early twenties, the numbers begin to decline, particularly for the 22-24 age group, where there are only 158 students. This drop may suggest that many students either graduate or transfer to other institutions during these years. The number of students aged 25-29 remains relatively low at 74, comprising roughly 8.3% of the total student population, which may indicate that younger students are more inclined to pursue higher education immediately after high school.
The representation of older students, particularly those aged 30 and above, is minimal, with only 30 students in the 30-34 age range and fewer in the subsequent categories. This trend mirrors national statistics showing that adult learners often face barriers to returning to education, such as financial constraints and family responsibilities.
Overall, these demographics illustrate a predominantly younger student body at Penn State Erie, which may impact campus culture, academic programming, and the types of services offered. Understanding these trends is essential for the university to cater to its student population effectively and to promote inclusivity across all age groups.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years
158 in 2025 · 8.5% in 2016
7 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Penn State Erie
The data on international student enrollment at Pennsylvania State University - Erie, Behrend College, reveals significant trends over nearly two decades. Beginning in 2004, the undergraduate international student population was relatively low, with only 46 students, accounting for just 1.29% of the total undergraduate enrollment. However, there has been a notable increase over the years, peaking in 2016 with 355 international students, representing a remarkable 8.50% of the undergraduate body. This growth highlights the university's efforts to attract a diverse student demographic, which enriches the campus experience and fosters global awareness among students.
In contrast, the graduate student population has seen a more fluctuating trend. The percentage of international graduate students reached its highest point of 7.32% in 2007 but has since seen a decline. The latest data from 2023 shows a slight increase in the international graduate population to 7.48%, suggesting a potential recovery in interest among international students for graduate studies.
The overall trends indicate that while undergraduate international enrollment has experienced substantial growth, the graduate program has encountered challenges in maintaining consistent international representation. This reflects broader trends seen across many U.S. universities, where factors such as visa policies, global competition, and changing economic conditions can impact international student recruitment. As universities navigate these challenges, it will be critical for institutions like Penn State Erie to continue adapting their strategies to attract and support international students, ensuring their programs remain competitive and diverse.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$41,432
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $26,958
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $15,972
- Room and board
- $14,474
- Graduate tuition
- $33,698
Tuition rose 21% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference
Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 53 | 33 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 53 | 33 |
| Soccer | 32 | 30 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 31 | 21 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 18 |
| Water Polo | 20 | 13 |
| Volleyball | 14 | 15 |
| Wrestling | 26 | - |
| Cross Country | 12 | 10 |
| Tennis | 12 | 9 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 10 | 1 |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 38 | 27 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 33 | 25 |
| Soccer | 30 | 27 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 25 | 18 |
| Baseball | 31 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 14 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 14 |
| Cross Country | 18 | 11 |
| Water Polo | 16 | 13 |
| Tennis | 11 | 11 |
| Golf | 14 | 5 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Wrestling | 18 | - |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 44 | 25 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 44 | 25 |
| Soccer | 31 | 27 |
| Swimming and Diving (combined) | 29 | 20 |
| Water Polo | 19 | 14 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 17 |
| Volleyball | 16 | 15 |
| Cross Country | 17 | 12 |
| Tennis | 13 | 8 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Golf | 15 | 1 |
| Wrestling | 9 | - |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Gannon UniversityErie · 5.3 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Allegheny CollegeMeadville · 33.6 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
D'Youville UniversityBuffalo · 77.6 mi
U.S. News #250
-
University at BuffaloBuffalo · 86.0 mi
U.S. News #85
-
Case Western Reserve UniversityCleveland · 93.8 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Kent State University at KentKent · 97.2 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Robert Morris UniversityMoon Township · 111.1 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Chatham UniversityPittsburgh · 115.5 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh · 115.7 mi
U.S. News #59
Data insights
Here are some notable universities near Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College:
-
Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious research university is known for its strong emphasis on science, engineering, and the arts.
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - With a rank of 67, this university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is renowned for its research and health sciences.
-
University of Rochester - Ranked 47th, this private university is known for its strong programs in music, engineering, and business.
-
Case Western Reserve University - This university holds the 53rd rank and is recognized for its research contributions and strong programs in law, medicine, and engineering.
-
Allegheny College - A liberal arts college ranked 75th, Allegheny focuses on developing critical thinking and communication skills.
-
Rochester Institute of Technology - With a rank of 98, this institute offers a range of technical and creative programs, emphasizing experiential learning.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and have strong academic reputations, making them excellent options for prospective students.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Review of Crime Data at Penn State Erie-Behrend College
The crime data from Penn State Erie-Behrend College indicates notable trends over the years, particularly in the realm of gun-related arrests. The period from 2013 to 2017 showed a concerning increase in crime rates, peaking in 2013 with an average of 17.26 incidents per 1000 students. This alarming rate could reflect broader trends in campus safety across universities, where issues like substance abuse and violence have been growing concerns.
However, a significant decline in crime rates is observed from 2018 onwards, with 2020, 2021, and 2022 reporting zero incidents. This dramatic decrease could be attributed to various factors, including improved campus safety measures, community initiatives, or even the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which drastically changed student life and reduced on-campus activities.
Interestingly, the data for 2023 reflects a resurgence of incidents, with an average rate of 6.19 per 1000 students. This rise, albeit lower than the 2013 peak, suggests that the college may need to re-evaluate its safety protocols and community engagement strategies to ensure student safety remains a priority.
Overall, while the recent years have seen a positive trend towards lower crime rates, the fluctuations highlight the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures in maintaining campus safety. This data underscores the necessity for continuous assessment and adaptation to the changing dynamics of campus life. For more information on calculating crime rates, you can visit this link: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.