Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver
Acceptance rate
95.7%
2025
Out-of-state tuition
$24,134
In-state $14,408
Undergraduates
482
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Graduation rate
16.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 20.2%
About
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver, located in the picturesque town of Monaca, Pennsylvania, is a vital branch of the larger Penn State University system. Known for its strong emphasis on student engagement and academic excellence, Penn State Beaver offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs tailored to meet the needs of its student population. The campus is particularly notable for its intimate learning environment, which fosters close relationships between students and faculty. This personal touch helps ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially.
The university embraces a rich campus culture characterized by a variety of student organizations, extracurricular activities, and athletic events. With a strong commitment to community service and leadership development, students are encouraged to participate in activities that enhance their personal and professional growth. The campus is equipped with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, recreational centers, and study spaces, creating a conducive environment for both learning and leisure. Additionally, Penn State Beaver graduates are well-prepared for the job market, thanks to the university's strong connections with local businesses and industries, which facilitate internships and employment opportunities. The emphasis on holistic education, community involvement, and academic rigor makes Penn State Beaver a noteworthy institution in the Penn State family.
Analysis of Key Trends at Penn State Beaver
The data from Penn State Beaver reveals several significant trends over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student retention, graduation rates, and the student-to-faculty ratio.
Firstly, tuition costs have seen a consistent increase, with in-state undergraduate tuition rising from $13,470 in 2014 to $14,380 in 2024. Out-of-state tuition has also risen sharply from $20,076 to $23,872 in the same period. This trend is concerning as the rising costs can deter potential students and may lead to increased student debt levels, a problem that has gained nationwide attention.
Secondly, student retention rates have fluctuated, with a peak in 2016 at approximately 78.2%, but a subsequent decline to about 72.5% by 2023. This decrease may indicate challenges in student engagement or satisfaction, which could stem from the rising tuition or other institutional factors that need further investigation.
Graduation rates have also shown a troubling trend. The timely graduation rate for undergraduates plummeted from around 29.4% in 2014 to just 12.0% in 2023. This significant decline raises questions about the support structures in place for students and the overall academic environment, signaling a potential crisis in student success that warrants immediate attention.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio has decreased from 15:1 in 2013 to 11:1 in 2023. While a lower ratio often suggests more personalized attention for students, the overall decline in student numbers, dropping from 759 in 2013 to 522 in 2023, raises concerns about the sustainability of faculty resources and the institution's ability to provide quality education.
In summary, while some metrics, like student-to-faculty ratios, may appear favorable, the overarching trends in tuition increases, declining retention and graduation rates, and falling student enrollment highlight critical challenges for Penn State Beaver that need to be addressed to secure its future and maintain its educational standards.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Pittsburgh, about 25 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), about 15 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Carey McDougall (Regional Chancellor)
- Phone
- 7247733800
- City
- Monaca, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 100 University Drive, Monaca, PA 15061-2764
Rankings & Admission
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2023: men 92.2%, women 94.4%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at Penn State Beaver
The admission data from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver reveals intriguing trends in selectivity and enrollment over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations, indicating changes in the university's admission policies or applicant pool dynamics.
In 2009, the admission rates were quite high, with males at approximately 91.7% and females at 93.0%. However, a significant decline is evident in 2019, where the male acceptance rate plummeted to about 61.8% and the female acceptance rate to around 67.5%. This sharp decrease may reflect a growing competitiveness in higher education, as more students vie for limited spots in increasingly popular programs.
Interestingly, while enrollment numbers have varied, the overall trend suggests a more competitive environment, with the number of applicants likely increasing alongside the university's reputation. The data shows peaks and troughs in enrollment numbers, with a notable decrease in 2019, where only 185 students were enrolled after 463 denials. This could indicate a tightening of admission criteria or a shift in the demographic appeal of the university.
Furthermore, the number of deferred admissions has also varied significantly, peaking in 2023 with 1,423 deferrals, suggesting a strategic approach to managing applicant expectations and enrollment numbers. Overall, these trends highlight the evolving landscape of college admissions and the necessity for prospective students to be more strategic in their applications.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 22% submitted SAT, 4% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Penn State Beaver
The data from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver over the years reveals significant trends in SAT and ACT scores among admitted students. First, it is noteworthy that the number of students submitting SAT scores has fluctuated, with a peak of 268 submissions in 2009, gradually decreasing to only 49 submissions in 2023, representing just 29% of admitted students. This drop could reflect a broader trend in college admissions where standardized test scores are becoming less emphasized, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, which led many institutions to adopt test-optional policies.
Looking at the score ranges, the SAT reading scores for the 25th percentile (start) have shown some variability, starting from 430 in 2007 to 520 in 2023. Meanwhile, the 75th percentile (end) has also seen an increase, reaching up to 640. This indicates that while the lower end of the score spectrum has improved over the years, a higher percentage of students are now achieving stronger scores at the upper end as well.
Interestingly, the trend in ACT scores has not been as extensively documented, but the data shows a consistent presence of ACT submissions until 2018, after which there is a noticeable decline in both the number of submissions and the percentage of admitted students presenting these scores. This decline might also contribute to the overall shift in admissions strategies at Penn State Beaver.
Overall, the data suggests a transition toward a more holistic review process in admissions at Penn State Beaver, where test scores are one of several factors considered, aligning with national trends in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
1,703 applicants in 2025, 95.7% admitted
1,629 admitted 74 not admitted Yield 9.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Penn State Beaver
The graduation data from Penn State Beaver for 2023 reveals interesting trends across various disciplines. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees was awarded in Psychology, with 20 graduates. This reflects a growing interest in mental health and behavioral sciences, a trend echoed nationwide as society increasingly recognizes the importance of psychological well-being. With no international students graduating in this category, the local demographic might be primarily contributing to this figure.
Following closely is the Business/Commerce field, with 17 graduates. The absence of international students in this domain could indicate a strong local preference or a focus on community engagement in business practices. This aligns with current trends where local businesses benefit from graduates who understand regional markets and challenges.
Biology/Biological Sciences also demonstrated a healthy output with 13 graduates. The lack of international representation here may suggest that the program is attracting local talent, potentially due to its relevance in addressing health and environmental issues that are increasingly prominent in today's discussions.
Interestingly, several other fields, such as Information Science and various Criminal Justice programs, had graduates but without international representation. This could point to a need for strategies to attract a more diverse student body, especially in fields that are globally relevant and increasingly interconnected.
Overall, the data indicates a strong emphasis on local educational needs and the importance of certain fields in the current job market, particularly those related to mental health and business, while also highlighting opportunities for growth in attracting international students across various disciplines.
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. | $52,236 | ||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | $63,116 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | - | ||
| Information Science/Studies. | $68,240 | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration. | $41,573 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,593 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $55,314 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $45,444 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,378 |
Students
482 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 57:43 · Freshman retention 75.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 299
- First-year undergraduates 152
- Transfers and others 31
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (482)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Penn State Beaver in 2023
The student demographics at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver for the year 2023 reveal interesting insights into the composition of the student body. Among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 168 students, with 58.3% identifying as male and 41.7% as female. This gender distribution indicates a relatively balanced environment but highlights a slight male predominance among new entrants.
For undergraduate continuing students, the total number is considerably higher at 309, with 55.3% male and 44.7% female. The consistency in gender ratios between freshmen and continuing students suggests that the university maintains a stable environment, which can be appealing for both prospective and current students.
The undergraduate transfer students show an even split in gender representation, with 26 students divided equally between males and females. This balance may reflect a growing trend in higher education where gender parity is increasingly prioritized, allowing for a more inclusive academic experience.
While the data on graduate students and their demographics are not publicly available, the overall trends indicate a need for universities to continue focusing on diversity and inclusion. The presence of various ethnic backgrounds among these students, particularly with a notable number of white students, underscores the importance of fostering a multicultural environment.
In conclusion, the data reflects a university that is making strides toward gender balance and diversity, yet it also underscores the continued need for institutions to enhance their efforts in attracting a more varied student population, particularly from underrepresented groups. As higher education evolves, it is crucial for universities to adapt their outreach and support systems to meet the needs of a diverse body of students.
Age Demographics at Penn State Beaver
The age distribution of students at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver presents a fascinating snapshot of the campus's demographic landscape. Notably, the largest cohort is found in the <18 age group, comprising 74 male and 68 female undergraduate students, which indicates that the university effectively attracts younger students. This trend aligns with national patterns where many students enter college right after high school.
The 18-19 age group follows closely, with 128 male and 93 female undergraduates. This suggests a continuation of the trend toward immediate college enrollment post-high school. However, as we move into the 20-21 age group, there is a noticeable decline in male undergraduates to 52, while female undergraduates slightly surpass them at 57. This shift may indicate various factors, such as changing academic commitments or personal circumstances that lead to a decrease in enrollment among young male students.
Moreover, the data reveals a stark drop in student numbers in the 22-24 and older age categories, with very few students aged 25 and above, highlighting a predominantly younger student body. This could reflect broader educational trends where students are pursuing advanced degrees later in life, contributing to the scarcity of graduate students in the younger age brackets.
Ultimately, the demographics at Penn State Beaver resonate with wider educational trends across the United States, showcasing a youthful, predominantly undergraduate population. Understanding these dynamics can help the university tailor its programs and services to better meet the needs of its student body, particularly as they navigate their academic journeys.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years
14 in 2025 · 3.0% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Enrollment Trends at Penn State Beaver
The data on international student enrollment at Penn State Beaver reveals some intriguing trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated significantly. Initially, in 2004, there were only 2 international students among a total of 735 undergraduates, which constituted a mere 0.27%. However, this figure saw a notable increase in subsequent years, peaking in 2019 when international students made up 4.5% of the undergraduate population, with 28 students enrolled out of 622 total undergraduates.
The growth in international enrollment highlights a gradual acceptance and integration of students from diverse backgrounds, which is essential for fostering a rich educational environment. However, recent data from 2023 indicates a decline in both the total undergraduate population and the number of international students, dropping to 8 students, which is only 1.53% of the total. This downward trend raises concerns about the university's ability to attract international talent amid changing global dynamics, possibly influenced by various factors such as visa policies, economic conditions, and competition from other institutions.
Overall, while Penn State Beaver has made strides in increasing its international student representation over the years, the recent decline signals a need for strategies to bolster international recruitment efforts. Universities across the United States are facing similar challenges, and it is crucial to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education to maintain a diverse student body that enhances the learning experience for all.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$38,608
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $24,134
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $14,408
- Room and board
- $14,474
- Graduate tuition
- $31,220
Tuition rose 19% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NSCAA
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 13 | 22 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Soccer | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 15 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Soccer | 15 | 15 |
| Baseball | 24 | - |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 25 | 18 |
| Basketball | 18 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 20 |
| Baseball | 19 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Robert Morris UniversityMoon Township · 11.8 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh · 23.1 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh · 24.2 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh · 24.7 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Chatham UniversityPittsburgh · 25.1 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 35.2 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Kent State University at KentKent · 63.5 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Allegheny CollegeMeadville · 67.5 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
West Virginia UniversityMorgantown · 74.4 mi
U.S. News #227
Data insights
Here are some notable schools around Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver:
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Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, Carnegie Mellon is a prestigious research university located in Pittsburgh, known for its strong programs in engineering, computer science, and the arts.
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - With a ranking of 67, the University of Pittsburgh is renowned for its research initiatives and offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
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Duquesne University - Ranked 151st, Duquesne University is a private Catholic university in Pittsburgh, providing a strong liberal arts education along with professional programs.
-
Robert Morris University - This university ranks 201st and offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing career-oriented education.
-
West Virginia University - With a ranking of 216, this university is known for its comprehensive research programs and a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degrees.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-regarded in various fields of study.
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 Beaver
The crime statistics from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Beaver reveal a significant fluctuation in the crime rates over the years. Notably, the years 2017 and 2018 stand out with alarmingly high crime rates of 60.88 and 91.30 per 1,000 students, respectively. These figures could indicate a spike in criminal activity, suggesting potential underlying issues within the campus community or surrounding areas during that period.
In contrast, the years 2020, 2021, and 2022 recorded no reported crimes, which might reflect improved safety measures, changes in campus policies, or even the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic leading to reduced campus activity. However, the return of reported crimes in 2023, with a rate of 19.54 per 1,000 students, raises questions about the campus environment as students resumed normal activities.
Furthermore, the data reveals a range of crime types, from gun-related arrests to domestic violence, underscoring the importance of targeted prevention programs. Educational institutions must continually adapt their strategies to address the unique challenges they face, particularly in fostering a safe and secure environment for all students.
Overall, while the data reflects significant improvements in crime rates in recent years, the spikes in specific years warrant further investigation and proactive measures to ensure campus safety. For those interested in understanding crime rates and their calculation, further information can be found at the provided link.
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.