Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Scranton
Acceptance rate
98.5%
2025
Out-of-state tuition
$25,392
In-state $15,208
Undergraduates
800
Student-faculty ratio 11:1
Graduation rate
22.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 33.5%
About
Penn State Scranton, a branch of the renowned Pennsylvania State University system, is located in the picturesque city of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Established in 1934, the campus offers a unique blend of a small college environment with access to the resources of a major university. This makes it an attractive choice for students seeking a personalized educational experience. The campus is well known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, with a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs tailored to meet the needs of the local and regional workforce.
One of the key features of Penn State Scranton is its strong emphasis on student success and involvement. The campus fosters a vibrant student life with a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities that encourage personal growth and community service. The university's motto, "Making Life Better," reflects its dedication to improving the lives of its students and the surrounding community. Facilities are modern and equipped with state-of-the-art technology, promoting an engaging learning environment. The faculty is composed of highly qualified professionals who are committed to providing quality education and mentorship to their students. Overall, Penn State Scranton combines a supportive atmosphere with excellent educational opportunities, preparing students for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society.
Analysis of Key Trends at Pennsylvania State University - Penn State Scranton
The data from Pennsylvania State University - Penn State Scranton reveals notable trends in tuition, student population, graduation rates, and student retention, illustrating the challenges and dynamics of higher education in recent years.
Firstly, tuition has seen a consistent upward trajectory, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from $13,486 in 2014 to $15,180 in 2024, reflecting a significant increase of approximately 12.5%. For out-of-state students, the tuition escalation is even more pronounced, climbing from $20,162 to $25,118 in the same period, which represents over a 24% increase. This steady tuition hike could potentially deter prospective students, particularly in the context of rising student debt and financial strain.
Secondly, there has been a marked decline in student enrollment, particularly in undergraduate programs. The number of undergraduates decreased from 1,234 in 2013 to just 875 in 2023. This 29% drop raises concerns about the institution's appeal and competitiveness in attracting new students, especially against the backdrop of a shrinking demographic of high school graduates in Pennsylvania.
Moreover, graduation rates have declined sharply, with the on-time graduation rate plummeting from 25.4% in 2013 to a mere 11.2% in 2023. Such a trend indicates potential issues with student support, academic preparedness, or satisfaction with the educational experience. Coupled with a 77.9% retention rate in 2023, this suggests that while many students remain enrolled, a significant number are not successfully completing their degrees on time.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has improved from 16:1 in 2013 to 12:1 in 2023, which could enhance educational quality by allowing for more personalized attention for students. However, whether this improvement can sufficiently address the declining graduation and retention rates remains to be seen.
In conclusion, the interplay of rising costs, declining enrollment, and falling graduation rates presents a challenging landscape for Pennsylvania State University - Penn State Scranton, necessitating strategic interventions to enhance student engagement and academic success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- In Scranton
- Nearest international airport
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), about 90 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Elizabeth Wright (Regional Chancellor)
- Phone
- 5709632500
- City
- Dunmore, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 120 Ridge View Drive, Dunmore, PA 18512-1602
Rankings & Admission
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2023: men 96.7%, women 91.8%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Penn State Scranton
The admissions data from Penn State Scranton over the years reveals significant trends concerning acceptance rates and overall enrollment. A striking observation is the fluctuating acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 87.6%, while for females, it was about 83.4%. This trend indicates a relatively higher acceptance for male students, which, however, has seen a gradual narrowing over the years.
In particular, the most notable year is 2023, where the acceptance rates surged to 96.7% for males and 91.8% for females, indicating a shift towards a more inclusive admissions policy, or possibly a response to changing demographics or institutional goals. This dramatic increase in acceptance rates comes alongside a total enrollment of 229 students, which seems modest yet reflects a competitive environment given the previous years' data.
Moreover, the number of denied applications has consistently remained high, peaking in 2018 with 195 denials, showcasing the competitive nature of admissions at Penn State Scranton. The number of deferred applications fluctuated, suggesting that the university may have adopted a more cautious approach in assessing candidates during certain years.
Overall, the trends in acceptance rates, denials, and enrollment numbers highlight the evolving landscape of admissions at Penn State Scranton, reflecting broader changes in higher education, including increased competition and diversity in applicant pools. As institutions adapt to these trends, prospective students may find opportunities that were previously less accessible, promoting a more equitable educational environment.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 20% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Test Scores at Penn State Scranton
The data from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Scranton reveals significant trends in the SAT and ACT scores of admitted students from 2007 to 2023. Notably, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores has gradually declined from 95% in 2007 to just 28% in 2023. This drop may reflect a broader national trend where many institutions have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores.
Examining the scores themselves, there has been a fluctuating pattern over the years. The 25th percentile SAT reading scores have shown some variability, starting at 430 in 2007 and peaking at 510 in 2011, while the 75th percentile scores demonstrate a more consistent upward trend, culminating at 620 in 2023. This increase may suggest a more competitive applicant pool over time, as the higher scores indicate that more students are performing well academically.
Moreover, the ACT scores also show a similar upward trajectory. The 25th percentile scores range from 18 to 22, indicating a gradual increase in the academic performance of admitted students. This aligns with the national trend of rising ACT scores across the country, reflecting a shift in educational standards and student preparedness.
Overall, the data points to an evolving admissions landscape at Penn State Scranton, where the reliance on standardized testing has diminished, yet the academic caliber of students appears to be on the rise. This trend raises important questions about the future of admissions processes and the role of standardized testing in evaluating student potential.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
2,155 applicants in 2025, 98.5% admitted
2,123 admitted 32 not admitted Yield 8.6%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Penn State Scranton
The graduation data from Penn State Scranton for 2023 reveals interesting trends across various academic disciplines. The most notable point is the dominance of the Registered Nursing program, which produced the highest number of bachelor's graduates at 33. This aligns with the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in nursing, as highlighted by recent reports of nursing shortages across the United States, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the realm of business studies, the data shows a significant number of graduates, with 32 students earning bachelor's degrees in general business. This reflects a robust interest in business education, likely driven by the resilience of the business sector and the increasing need for skilled professionals in a recovering economy.
Psychology also stands out with 18 bachelor's degrees awarded, which mirrors a national trend where psychology remains a popular field of study, partly because of heightened awareness around mental health issues. The lack of international students graduating in these fields may indicate a need for more inclusive recruitment strategies to attract a diverse student body.
Interestingly, there are no master's or doctorate degrees awarded in any program, which could suggest that the institution primarily focuses on undergraduate education, or it may highlight an area for potential growth in advanced degree offerings.
Overall, the data reflects the institution's strengths in nursing and business disciplines while highlighting opportunities for growth in graduate programs and international student recruitment.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $38,044-$52,236 | ||
| Business/Corporate Communications, General. | $39,635 | ||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | $63,116 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $82,877-$95,718 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Engineering. | $75,796 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,593 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | $49,860-$68,240 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | $38,145-$38,150 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,378 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $35,537 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $34,927-$39,818 |
Students
800 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 57:43 · Freshman retention 79.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 574
- First-year undergraduates 180
- Transfers and others 46
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (800)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Penn State Scranton in 2023
The student body at Penn State Scranton in 2023 reflects a diverse and evolving landscape of higher education. The total enrollment of undergraduate freshmen stands at 229, with a notable gender distribution where 63.3% are male and 36.7% are female. This indicates a significant male representation among new students, which raises discussions about gender balance in various fields of study, particularly in STEM disciplines that traditionally attract more males.
For continuing undergraduate students, the population is more balanced, with 590 individuals and a near-equal gender ratio of 50.8% male to 49.2% female. This shift suggests an encouraging trend toward gender parity as students progress in their academic journeys, potentially reflecting broader societal changes in educational participation among women.
Transfer students, numbering 41, also display a balanced gender ratio of 51.2% male to 48.8% female, indicating that the appeal of Penn State Scranton extends to both genders equally when considering transferring to the institution.
The data on the racial and ethnic composition of these students shows a predominance of white students among the various demographic categories. This underlines ongoing conversations about diversity and inclusion in higher education, especially as institutions strive to create more inclusive environments for all students, including underrepresented minorities and international students.
Overall, the statistics from Penn State Scranton highlight the importance of addressing gender disparities in specific student categories while also acknowledging the strides made in achieving greater gender balance among continuing students. As higher education institutions continue to adapt to societal changes, monitoring these demographic trends will be crucial in fostering an inclusive academic community.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Penn State Scranton
The student age composition at Penn State Scranton reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the university. A significant majority of students fall within the traditional college age of 18 to 21, accounting for 66.5% of the total male students and 62.5% of the total female students. This trend aligns with national statistics indicating that the majority of undergraduate students are typically aged between 18 and 24, highlighting the university's appeal to younger individuals seeking higher education.
The data also indicates a stark drop in enrollment for students aged 22 and older, with numbers dwindling significantly in the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups. Only 15 male students are in the 25-29 age range, while the 30-34 age group has just six male students. This pattern suggests that the university primarily attracts younger students, possibly due to the nature of its programs, which may cater more to traditional undergraduates rather than non-traditional or returning students.
Additionally, the absence of graduate male students in the data indicates a potential area for growth. The university could consider expanding its graduate programs or offering incentives to attract older, graduate-level students. Overall, the current age composition suggests a vibrant and youthful academic environment, but it may benefit from the inclusion of a more diverse age range in future enrollments.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years
11 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Penn State Scranton
The data on international student enrollment at Penn State Scranton reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly in the undergraduate population. Starting with just one international student in 2004, the numbers gradually increased, peaking at 8 students in 2023, which corresponds to an impressive 0.91% of the total undergraduate student body. This growth reflects a broader trend in higher education where institutions are increasingly becoming global hubs for students seeking quality education across borders.
The percentage of international students in the undergraduate sector shows notable ups and downs. For instance, from 2004 to 2019, the percentage varied, reaching a low of 0.07% in both 2004 and 2009, before climbing to as high as 0.68% in 2014. This volatility could be attributed to various factors, including changes in immigration policies, global economic conditions, and the university's outreach efforts to attract international students.
While the graduate student data is not provided, the trends observed in undergraduate enrollment suggest that Penn State Scranton is positioning itself to cater to an increasingly diverse student population. The rise in international representation could enhance the cultural exchange within the campus, contributing to a richer academic environment.
In conclusion, the continued effort in attracting international students is vital for enriching the educational landscape at Penn State Scranton. As global mobility continues to evolve, the university’s strategies in engaging with international students will be crucial in sustaining growth and fostering inclusivity.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$40,666
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $25,392
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $15,208
- Room and board
- $15,274
- Graduate tuition
- $32,774
Tuition rose 20% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 40%.
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NSCAA
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 20 | 10 |
| Soccer | 28 | - |
| Softball | - | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 8 | 5 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 6 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 19 | 9 |
| Soccer | 15 | 13 |
| Baseball | 22 | - |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 14 | 7 |
| Softball | - | 11 |
| Volleyball | - | 8 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 19 | 12 |
| Basketball | 17 | 8 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 11 |
| Baseball | 15 | - |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Golf | 9 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Binghamton UniversityVestal · 48.2 mi
U.S. News #73
-
Lafayette CollegeEaston · 55.5 mi
Liberal Arts #30
-
Muhlenberg CollegeAllentown · 58.6 mi
Liberal Arts #62
-
Lehigh UniversityBethlehem · 58.9 mi
U.S. News #44
-
DeSales UniversityCenter Valley · 63.5 mi
U.S. News #262
-
Bucknell UniversityLewisburg · 73.7 mi
Liberal Arts #29
-
Cornell UniversityIthaca · 82.5 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Montclair State UniversityMontclair · 84.2 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Seton Hall UniversitySouth Orange · 86.3 mi
U.S. News #156
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Scranton:
-
Cornell University - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Cornell University is an Ivy League institution known for its diverse academic programs and prestigious reputation.
-
Princeton University - As the top-ranked school at 1st place, Princeton University is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and rich history, offering exceptional education across various fields.
-
Lehigh University - Ranked 47th, Lehigh University is recognized for its strong engineering and business programs, fostering innovation and leadership among its students.
-
Binghamton University - This university is ranked 73rd and is part of the State University of New York system, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Lafayette College - A top liberal arts college ranked 30th, Lafayette College emphasizes a strong undergraduate education with a focus on critical thinking and communication skills.
These institutions provide a variety of academic opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Penn State Scranton
The crime data from Penn State Scranton over the years presents a mixed picture. From 2013 to 2023, there have been fluctuations in reported crimes, with a notable peak in 2015, when the average crime rate was 2.66 per 1,000 students. This indicates a concerning rise during that year, which could be attributed to various factors such as increased reporting, campus events, or other social dynamics influencing student behavior.
Following 2015, the crime rates saw a significant decline, with many years reporting zero incidents. The years 2020 to 2022, in particular, show a complete absence of recorded crimes. This might suggest effective measures taken by the university to promote safety, or it could reflect the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited campus activities and interactions.
However, in 2023, the data indicates a return to some level of incidents, with an average rate of 2.29 per 1,000 students. This resurgence of crimes, particularly in a year where students returned to more traditional campus life, raises questions about the factors contributing to this increase. It may reflect broader societal trends, such as the challenges young people face in adjusting back to normalcy after the pandemic, or it could be indicative of a need for enhanced safety measures on campus.
In summary, while the historical data highlights periods of both concern and relative safety, it underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students. Monitoring crime trends and understanding their causes will be essential for maintaining a secure campus environment in the future. For more details on calculating crime rates, you can refer to 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.