Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine
Acceptance rate
98.1%
2025
Out-of-state tuition
$25,392
In-state $15,208
Undergraduates
1,236
Student-faculty ratio 15:1
Graduation rate
14.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 25.5%
About
Penn State Brandywine, located in Pennsylvania, is a vibrant and dynamic branch of the renowned Pennsylvania State University system. One of the distinguishing features of Penn State Brandywine is its strong emphasis on personalized education, which is facilitated by its smaller campus size. This allows for more intimate class settings where students can engage closely with faculty members, ensuring a supportive and enriching learning environment. The campus offers a variety of undergraduate programs, with particular strengths in business, information sciences, and engineering. Students are encouraged to participate in hands-on learning experiences, research projects, and community engagement initiatives that enhance their academic journey and prepare them for the workforce.
The campus culture at Penn State Brandywine is characterized by a strong sense of community and a commitment to diversity. Students have access to a plethora of extracurricular activities, ranging from academic clubs to athletic teams, fostering a well-rounded college experience. The campus is also equipped with modern facilities, including a library, student center, and state-of-the-art classrooms that enhance the educational experience. Furthermore, the university's commitment to student success is evident in its robust career services, which help students secure internships and job placements upon graduation. Graduates from Penn State Brandywine benefit from the prestigious Penn State alumni network, which opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Overall, Penn State Brandywine stands out as a nurturing institution that prepares students for success in their personal and professional lives.
Trends in Tuition, Retention, and Graduation Rates
The data reveals significant trends in tuition costs, student retention, and graduation rates at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine over recent years. Notably, tuition for in-state undergraduate students has risen from $13,608 in 2014 to $15,180 in 2024, representing an increase of approximately 11.5%. For out-of-state students, the tuition escalated even more dramatically, from $20,284 to $25,118, a rise of around 23.8%. This trend mirrors the national crisis of rising higher education costs, which has become a pressing concern for prospective students and their families.
Student retention rates have shown relative stability, fluctuating between approximately 70.8% to 79.4% from 2013 to 2019, before slightly dipping to 73.7% in 2023. This indicates that while students are generally staying enrolled, the slight decrease may warrant attention from the university, as retention is closely tied to student satisfaction and success.
The graduation rates, particularly the timely graduation rate, have raised alarms. The rate for timely graduation dropped significantly from 19.8% in 2017 to just 10.6% in 2023, while the 150% graduation rate also fell from approximately 43% to around 24%. This sharp decline suggests that students are struggling to complete their degrees on time, which could be attributed to increasing tuition costs, financial strain, or perhaps a lack of adequate support systems within the institution.
Overall, these trends indicate that while tuition continues to escalate, the university faces challenges in retaining students and facilitating timely graduation. Addressing these issues will be crucial for maintaining the institution's reputation and ensuring that students receive a valuable education without undue financial burden.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a large city
- Nearest major city
- Philadelphia, about 20 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 10 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Marilyn J. Wells (Regional Chancellor)
- Phone
- 6108921200
- City
- Media, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 25 Yearsley Mill Road, Media, PA 19063-5522
Rankings & Admission
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2023: men 95.9%, women 96.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Penn State Brandywine
The admission trends at Penn State Brandywine from 2009 to 2023 reveal significant insights into the changing dynamics of student enrollment and acceptance rates. Over the years, the ratio of accepted male applicants has generally remained higher than that of female applicants, though both rates show a gradual improvement. For instance, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 95.9% in 2023, while the female rate also reached an impressive 96.4%. This suggests a growing inclusivity and potential efforts by the university to attract a more diverse student body.
The enrollment numbers have fluctuated, peaking at 434 students in 2009 and reflecting a gradual decline to a low of 331 in 2017, before rebounding to 399 in 2023. This fluctuation could be attributed to various external factors, including demographic shifts, economic conditions, and increased competition from other institutions, particularly in light of the ongoing changes in higher education landscapes affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Moreover, the denial rates illustrate a consistent challenge, with the number of denied applicants varying each year but showing a downward trend in recent years. This may indicate not only a more rigorous selection process but also potentially improved applicant qualifications, as more students vie for limited spots. The deferred admissions, particularly in 2023 with over 1,900 deferrals, signal a growing trend where students are interested but may be considering other options or deferring for personal reasons.
Overall, the data reflects a university that is adapting to the evolving higher education environment while striving to maintain a balanced and diverse student population. The increases in acceptance rates and the responsive adjustments to enrollment strategies are promising signs for the institution's future.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 29% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores at Penn State Brandywine
The data from Penn State Brandywine reveals a notable trend in the SAT and ACT scores over the years, particularly in the context of the admissions landscape. The percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has seen a decline, dropping from 98% in 2007 to just 35% in 2023. This decline may reflect a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, allowing students to choose whether to submit standardized test scores.
In terms of performance, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores have shown a gradual increase from 405 in 2007 to 540 in 2023, indicating that the minimum score required for admission is rising. Conversely, the maximum scores for the same period have also increased, suggesting that while the overall applicant pool may be getting more competitive, the institution is also raising its academic standards.
The number of students submitting ACT scores has fluctuated, with a significant drop over the years. This aligns with the national trend where fewer students are taking the ACT, possibly because of the shift towards SAT preferences or changes in college admission requirements.
Overall, these trends highlight the evolving nature of college admissions, where institutions like Penn State Brandywine are adjusting their criteria and acknowledging a diverse range of applicant backgrounds. As the landscape of higher education continues to change, it will be interesting to observe how these trends influence enrollment and academic performance in future years.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
2,431 applicants in 2025, 98.1% admitted
2,385 admitted 46 not admitted Yield 16.8%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data at Penn State Brandywine
The graduation data from Penn State Brandywine for 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across various academic disciplines. The Business/Commerce program stands out with the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, totaling 44 graduates. This emphasis on business education aligns with national trends, as business degrees consistently rank among the most popular fields of study in the U.S. Given the current economic climate, the demand for proficient business professionals is likely to continue increasing, making this program particularly relevant.
Psychology follows with 20 bachelor's degree graduates, indicating a solid interest in mental health and human behavior studies. The importance of mental health has gained significant attention in recent years, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has amplified the need for psychological services and research.
Interestingly, the data shows that there were no international students graduating in any category, which raises questions about the university's appeal to a global audience. This could be an area for growth, especially as universities increasingly seek to diversify their student bodies and enhance their global networks.
In the realm of engineering, programs like Civil Engineering and Computer Engineering recorded no graduates in 2023. This lack of graduates in STEM fields is concerning, particularly as the workforce increasingly demands professionals skilled in technology and engineering. Universities may need to evaluate their programs and outreach efforts to attract more students into these crucial areas.
Overall, the data presents a snapshot of the academic landscape at Penn State Brandywine, highlighting both strengths and opportunities for improvement in addressing student interests and market demands.
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 | ||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | $63,116 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $37,593 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | $84,461 | ||
| Information Science/Studies. | $49,860-$68,240 | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Development and Family Studies, General. | $38,150 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $45,444 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $38,378 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | $67,873 |
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under |
|---|---|---|---|
| American/United States Studies/Civilization. | - |
Students
1,236 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 63:37 · Freshman retention 72.6%
- Continuing undergraduates 766
- First-year undergraduates 391
- Transfers and others 79
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,236)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Penn State Brandywine in 2023
The student population at Penn State Brandywine in 2023 reflects a diverse mix of undergraduate and graduate students. Among the new undergraduate students, there are 399 individuals, with a notable gender distribution showing approximately 66.7% male and 33.3% female. This trend of a higher male representation continues among returning undergraduates, who total 738 students, with about 59.2% male and 40.8% female.
Interestingly, the data for transfer students reveals a shift in gender dynamics, where females constitute a larger proportion, making up 59.6% of the 52 transfer students, while males account for 40.4%. This suggests that transfer students may be drawn from different demographics or educational backgrounds, possibly indicating a more inclusive environment for female students in these categories.
The overall racial composition of the students indicates a predominance of White students across the different categories, with specific numbers showing 70.2% male representation among new undergraduate White students. However, the exact figures for returning and transfer students are less clear as the detailed racial breakdown for these groups is not fully available.
This demographic distribution highlights ongoing trends in higher education, where male enrollment often surpasses female enrollment, particularly in certain programs or courses. Yet, the growing number of female transfer students could signify a positive shift towards greater gender balance in the future. As universities strive for diversity and inclusion, understanding these demographic trends is crucial for developing programs that support all students effectively.
Age Composition of Students at Penn State Brandywine in 2023
The age distribution of students at Penn State Brandywine reveals notable trends in the demographics of its undergraduate and graduate populations. A significant majority of students fall under the age of 24, comprising approximately 80% of the total student body. Specifically, the age groups below 18 and between 18-19 together account for nearly 60% of the student population, highlighting the institution's appeal to younger students.
Interestingly, there is a stark absence of graduate students across all age categories, indicating that Penn State Brandywine primarily serves as an undergraduate institution. This trend aligns with a broader pattern observed in many regional campuses, which tend to attract a higher number of traditional-age college students rather than adult learners or graduate candidates.
Moreover, the data shows a strong gender representation among undergraduates, with female students totaling 38% across all age ranges. This balance is essential as it reflects a gradual shift towards gender parity in higher education, though additional efforts are necessary to maintain and improve this ratio in graduate studies.
The presence of older age groups, particularly those aged 30 and above, remains minimal, suggesting limited opportunities or interest in returning to education at this stage. This could be a critical area for universities to address, especially as lifelong learning continues to gain importance in today's fast-paced job market. Overall, the data paints a picture of a youthful and vibrant academic community, indicating a need for targeted programs that could engage a broader range of ages and experiences in the future.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years
34 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Penn State Brandywine
The data reveals an intriguing trend in the international student enrollment at Penn State Brandywine over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the proportion of international undergraduates has shown a significant increase, rising from a mere 0.58% to an impressive 3.43%. This upward trend suggests a growing attractiveness of the university to international students, potentially due to its diverse academic offerings and supportive environment.
In the early years, the numbers were relatively low, with peaks and troughs, but a noticeable shift occurred around 2018, when the percentage of international students surged to 2.36%. By 2023, the figure reached 3.43%, indicating a robust interest from international applicants. This growth aligns with the broader trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly competing to attract international talent.
The data for graduate students remains sparse, but the absence of recorded figures suggests that perhaps the university has yet to fully tap into this demographic. As global educational landscapes evolve, institutions like Penn State Brandywine may need to enhance their graduate programs to attract more international students.
Overall, the increase in international undergraduate enrollment is a positive indicator for Penn State Brandywine, reflecting its potential to foster a more diverse and inclusive academic community. As universities face challenges in enrollment due to changing immigration policies and global events, maintaining and building upon this momentum will be crucial.
Cost
2025 cost per year (out-of-state)
$39,866
- Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
- $25,392
- Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
- $15,208
- Room and board
- $14,474
- Graduate tuition
- $32,774
Tuition rose 20% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 32%.
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · North Eastern Athletic Conference
North Eastern Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 28 | 17 |
| Baseball | 37 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 19 |
| Tennis | 9 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 7 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 31 | 20 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 12 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Cross Country | 10 | 6 |
| Tennis | 8 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 13 |
| Golf | 8 | - |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 30 | 13 |
| Baseball | 30 | - |
| Basketball | 14 | 10 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Cross Country | 7 | 5 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Tennis | 8 | 3 |
| Golf | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Swarthmore CollegeSwarthmore · 5.3 mi
Liberal Arts #3
-
Haverford CollegeHaverford · 9.5 mi
Liberal Arts #26
-
Villanova UniversityVillanova · 9.5 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Bryn Mawr CollegeBryn Mawr · 10.0 mi
Liberal Arts #31
-
University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia · 13.7 mi
U.S. News #7
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 46.8 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
Lehigh UniversityBethlehem · 47.1 mi
U.S. News #44
-
Princeton UniversityPrinceton · 50.9 mi
U.S. News #2
-
Lafayette CollegeEaston · 54.8 mi
Liberal Arts #30
Data insights
Here are some noteworthy institutions near Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine:
-
Swarthmore College - Ranked 4th in the 2024 US News rankings, Swarthmore College is a prestigious liberal arts college known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social responsibility.
-
Haverford College - With a rank of 21, Haverford College is another highly regarded liberal arts institution that emphasizes academic excellence, ethical leadership, and a strong sense of community.
-
Villanova University - Ranked 67th, Villanova University is a comprehensive university known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and the liberal arts, as well as its vibrant campus life.
-
University of Pennsylvania - A prestigious Ivy League university ranked 6th nationally, the University of Pennsylvania is known for its diverse academic offerings and strong research programs.
-
Drexel University - Ranked 98th, Drexel University is known for its cooperative education programs and emphasis on experiential learning, offering students valuable real-world experience.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are recognized for their academic excellence in various 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 Brandywine
The crime statistics from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine reveal a concerning trend in reported offenses over the years. While the data indicates a relatively low crime rate in the earlier years, a significant spike occurred in 2022 and 2023, with an alarming average of 24.75 incidents per 1000 students. This represents a stark increase from previous years, particularly from just 0.67 incidents per 1000 students in 2014.
The rise in crime rates can be attributed to various factors, including increased campus awareness and reporting, changes in the campus environment, or even an influx of new students. The data shows that the majority of offenses recorded in 2023 are related to serious crimes such as gun arrests and drug-related offenses, which can create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among students.
Moreover, considering the broader context of rising crime rates across many campuses nationwide, this trend at Penn State Brandywine should not be taken lightly. Educational institutions must prioritize student safety by enhancing security measures, providing support services, and fostering a culture of accountability. It is essential for the university to investigate the underlying causes of this spike in crime and develop strategies to mitigate these issues.
The increasing crime rates highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a safe learning environment for all students. For a deeper understanding of how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
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.