Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto
Acceptance rate
98.2%
2025
Out-of-state tuition
$24,134
In-state $14,408
Undergraduates
581
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Graduation rate
15.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 20.8%
About
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto, located in the picturesque Mont Alto region of Pennsylvania, is a branch campus of the well-known Penn State University system. This campus is distinguished by its intimate learning environment, which serves around 1,000 students. The university prides itself on offering a personalized educational experience, with small class sizes that facilitate close interactions between students and faculty. The dedicated and experienced faculty members are committed to fostering academic excellence and providing mentorship, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.
The campus is equipped with modern facilities that enhance the learning experience. Students have access to state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and libraries, which support a variety of academic programs. Penn State Mont Alto offers a range of degree programs, including associate degrees and bachelor's degrees in fields such as business, nursing, and information sciences. The campus is particularly known for its strong emphasis on practical experience and career readiness, which is reflected in its robust internship and co-op programs. Furthermore, the university encourages a vibrant campus life through various extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, and community service opportunities, fostering a strong sense of community among students. This nurturing environment, combined with its commitment to academic excellence, makes Penn State Mont Alto an appealing choice for students seeking a quality education in a supportive setting.
Analysis of Key Trends at Penn State Mont Alto
The data from Penn State Mont Alto reveals significant trends in tuition, student enrollment, and graduation rates that reflect broader challenges faced by higher education institutions.
Firstly, the increase in tuition is notable. From 2014 to 2024, in-state undergraduate tuition rose from $13,470 to $14,380, while out-of-state tuition increased from $20,076 to $23,872. This upward trend in tuition costs continues to outpace inflation and presents a barrier for many prospective students, potentially contributing to declining enrollment figures observed in recent years.
Secondly, student enrollment has seen a drastic decline. The number of undergraduate students dropped from over 1,100 in 2013 to just 670 in 2023. This significant decrease raises concerns about the institution's attractiveness and competitiveness in a landscape where many students are weighing the cost of education against potential career outcomes.
Moreover, the graduation rates reflect a troubling trend as well. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates plummeted to just 10% in 2023, a sharp decline from 25.99% in 2013. This decline signals potential issues with student retention and academic support, which could further exacerbate enrollment challenges as future students seek institutions with better graduation outcomes.
Finally, the student-to-faculty ratio, which slightly improved from 13:1 in 2013 to 10:1 in 2023, suggests a focus on maintaining quality education despite declining enrollment. However, the correlation between lower enrollment numbers and the sustainability of faculty resources remains a pressing concern.
In conclusion, while Penn State Mont Alto is striving to maintain educational quality, the rising tuition costs, declining student enrollment, and alarming graduation rates highlight systemic challenges that require immediate attention to ensure the institution’s long-term viability and success.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, near a city
- Nearest major city
- Harrisburg, about 45 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), about 60 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dr. Marilyn Wells (Regional Chancellor)
- Phone
- 7177496000
- City
- Mont Alto, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 1 Campus Drive, Mont Alto, PA 17237-9700
Rankings & Admission
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2023: men 92.5%, women 90.4%.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Penn State Mont Alto
The admission data for Penn State Mont Alto reveals significant trends over the years, particularly in acceptance rates, enrollment numbers, and gender disparities. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for male applicants hovered around 90%, showing a relatively high rate of admissions. However, the trend seems to decline slightly over the subsequent years, particularly evident by 2019 when the acceptance rate dipped to approximately 82%.
Conversely, the acceptance rates for female applicants have consistently been lower than their male counterparts, with a peak rate of about 90% in 2023 but a notable decline in earlier years. This disparity raises questions about the factors influencing these differences, possibly reflecting broader societal patterns in college admissions and gender representation.
Enrollment numbers also exhibit fluctuation, peaking at 426 in 2011 before declining to just 190 by 2023. This drop could indicate a change in the university's appeal, possibly influenced by external factors such as economic conditions or the evolving landscape of higher education. The increase in denied applications, particularly in recent years, suggests a more competitive environment or possibly a strategic shift in admissions practices.
Interestingly, the number of deferred admissions has been notably high, especially in 2023 with 429 deferrals. This may reflect a cautious approach by the institution in managing enrollment amidst uncertainties, perhaps influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftereffects on higher education.
Overall, these trends indicate a dynamic and somewhat challenging landscape for admissions at Penn State Mont Alto, mirroring national trends in higher education, where institutions continuously adapt to changing applicant demographics and external circumstances.
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 16% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Penn State Mont Alto
The data from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto reveals significant trends in standardized test scores over the years, particularly with the SAT and ACT assessments. A noticeable decline in the percentage of students submitting SAT scores was observed, dropping from 95% in 2007 to a mere 29% in 2023. This trend may reflect a broader national movement toward test-optional admissions policies, which many institutions adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing discussions about the equity of standardized testing.
Examining the score ranges, we see fluctuations in the SAT reading and math scores over the years. The 25th percentile for SAT reading and math scores has generally remained around the low 400s, with the upper 75th percentile showing gradual improvements, peaking at 620 in 2023 for SAT reading. This suggests that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to have increasingly competitive scores.
Interestingly, the ACT data shows a similar pattern, with the average composite scores remaining relatively stable, yet indicating a competitive environment for those who chose to submit their scores. The decreasing submission rates for standardized tests might be indicative of a shifting perception of college admissions, where holistic evaluation processes are gaining favor.
In conclusion, the trends at Penn State Mont Alto mirror broader shifts in higher education, as institutions navigate the evolving landscape of college admissions that increasingly values diverse indicators of student potential over standardized testing alone.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 10 in 10
613 applicants in 2025, 98.2% admitted
602 admitted 11 not admitted Yield 24.4%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data from Penn State Mont Alto
The graduation data from Penn State Mont Alto reveals some interesting trends across various fields of study for the year 2023. Notably, the healthcare-related programs, particularly in Registered Nursing and Occupational Therapist Assistant, reflect a significant demand, with 25 and 16 graduates respectively. This trend mirrors the increasing need for healthcare professionals in the U.S., particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened awareness around health services and the importance of a robust healthcare workforce.
In the realm of business studies, a total of 14 graduates emerged from the general Business/Commerce program. This highlights the ongoing relevance of business education in an evolving job market that requires adaptable skills. Despite the lack of international students graduating from these programs, the domestic figures suggest that local institutions still serve a vital role in preparing students for employment in various sectors.
Interestingly, other fields like Liberal Arts and Humanities produced a more modest number of graduates, with only 11 in Human Development and Family Studies and 6 in General Liberal Arts. This could indicate a shift in student preferences towards more vocationally-oriented degrees, especially within healthcare and business disciplines, as students increasingly seek direct pathways to employment.
Overall, the data suggests a strong inclination towards healthcare and business education at Penn State Mont Alto, reflecting broader national trends in workforce development and educational focus areas. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, institutions may need to adapt their offerings to align with the changing demands of the job market.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | $55,314 | ||
| Occupational Therapist Assistant. | $41,132 | ||
| Physical Therapy Assistant. | $41,132 | ||
| Occupational Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other. | $82,877-$95,718 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forest Technology/Technician. | - |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | $34,927-$39,818 |
Students
582 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 42:58 · Freshman retention 82.9%
- Continuing undergraduates 381
- First-year undergraduates 146
- Graduate students 1
- Transfers and others 54
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (581)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Composition at Penn State Mont Alto in 2023
The student composition at Penn State Mont Alto for the year 2023 presents an interesting demographic snapshot. Among undergraduate newcomers, there are 190 students, with a gender distribution showing that approximately 41.6% are male and 58.4% are female. This trend of higher female representation is consistent with national statistics indicating a growing number of women pursuing higher education.
For undergraduate continuing students, the total number rises to 398, maintaining a similar gender ratio with 40.7% male and 59.3% female. This sustained female majority underscores a broader shift in educational trends, where women are increasingly enrolling in and completing college programs compared to their male counterparts.
The undergraduate transfer students, although fewer in number at 38, exhibit a significant gender imbalance, with 31.6% being male and 68.4% being female. This could suggest that transfer pathways are more favorable or appealing to female students, which may merit further investigation.
The demographic breakdown by race, although not entirely detailed, reveals that among newcomers, white students constitute a significant portion, with 140 individuals identified. This raises questions about diversity and representation within the student body, particularly against the backdrop of ongoing discussions around equity in higher education.
In conclusion, the data from Penn State Mont Alto reflect broader trends in higher education, particularly the increasing female enrollment. However, the challenge remains in fostering a more diverse student body that accurately represents various racial and ethnic backgrounds, a goal that institutions are continually striving toward in the contemporary educational landscape.
Analysis of Student Age Demographics at Penn State Mont Alto
The age demographics of students at Penn State Mont Alto reveal a significant concentration of younger students, particularly those under 18 and in the 18-19 age range. The data indicates that students under 18 comprise 38.3% of the total student population, while those aged 18-19 account for 49.5%. This trend aligns with national observations that colleges draw a large number of high school graduates transitioning directly into higher education.
Interestingly, as the age brackets increase, the number of students diminishes sharply. For instance, only 10% of students are between 20-21 years old, and the numbers continue to decline in older age groups. This pattern raises questions about the accessibility and appeal of higher education for non-traditional students, particularly those aged 25 and older, who make up a mere 2.2% of the overall population.
Moreover, it is notable that there are no graduate students in the male demographic, which could suggest either a lack of enrollment in graduate programs or a need for more comprehensive outreach to encourage advanced studies among male students. The female demographic shows some representation across various age categories, yet the overall numbers remain low, particularly in the graduate sector.
This data reflects broader trends in higher education, where traditional-age students dominate enrollment figures. The challenge lies in creating an inclusive environment that encourages a diverse range of age groups to pursue higher education, considering the growing emphasis on lifelong learning and skill development in today's job market.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years
6 in 2025 · 0.3% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2017
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Penn State Mont Alto
The data on international student enrollment at Penn State Mont Alto reveals significant fluctuations over the years, particularly among undergraduate students. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population has varied notably, peaking at 0.63% in 2013 and reaching 0.60% in 2023. This indicates a modest increase in the presence of international students, reflecting a broader trend seen in many U.S. universities as they aim to diversify their student bodies.
The total undergraduate enrollment has also experienced a downward trend, decreasing from 1,098 in 2004 to 670 in 2023. This reduction could be attributed to various factors, including demographic shifts within the U.S., changing immigration policies, and increased competition from other countries offering higher education. Despite the overall decline in student numbers, the proportion of international students has shown resilience, suggesting that Penn State Mont Alto remains an attractive option for students from abroad.
Regarding graduate enrollment, the data shows a lack of consistent information, with only a few years reporting figures. However, the limited data available suggests that international representation among graduate students was significantly lower than among undergraduates. This disparity highlights the need for the university to enhance its appeal to international graduate students, particularly in light of the increasing globalization of education.
Overall, while Penn State Mont Alto has made strides in attracting international students, it faces challenges related to overall enrollment trends. As the university continues to adapt to changing educational landscapes, fostering an inclusive environment for international students will be crucial for its growth and success.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 20 | 14 |
| Baseball | 28 | - |
| Basketball | 16 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 18 | 14 |
| Baseball | 29 | - |
| Basketball | 20 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Softball | - | 17 |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| USCAA | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Soccer | 17 | 15 |
| Baseball | 29 | - |
| Basketball | 12 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 16 |
| Wrestling | 7 | - |
| Golf | 6 | - |
| Cross Country | 5 | 1 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg · 16.2 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Dickinson CollegeCarlisle · 30.9 mi
Liberal Arts #54
-
Juniata CollegeHuntingdon · 52.0 mi
Liberal Arts #91
-
Shenandoah UniversityWinchester · 57.0 mi
U.S. News #288
-
University of Maryland-Baltimore CountyBaltimore · 59.9 mi
U.S. News #137
-
Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimore · 60.5 mi
U.S. News #9
-
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster · 66.3 mi
Liberal Arts #34
-
University of Maryland-College ParkCollege Park · 67.1 mi
U.S. News #49
-
American UniversityWashington · 67.1 mi
U.S. News #95
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Pennsylvania State University-Mont Alto:
-
Johns Hopkins University - Renowned for its research programs, Johns Hopkins is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States, holding the 9th position in the 2024 US News rankings.
-
Georgetown University - This prestigious institution is ranked 22nd and is known for its strong emphasis on global affairs and public service, making it a leader in social sciences and humanities.
-
University of Maryland-College Park - Ranked 46th, this university offers a diverse range of programs and has a strong reputation for its research initiatives and vibrant campus life.
-
Dickinson College - A highly regarded liberal arts college, Dickinson is ranked 46th and is known for its commitment to global education and sustainability.
-
Franklin and Marshall College - This liberal arts college, ranked 35th, emphasizes a liberal arts education and is recognized for its strong community and academic rigor.
These institutions offer a variety of programs and are known for their academic excellence, making them excellent choices for higher education in the region.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Crime Rates at Penn State Mont Alto
The crime data from Pennsylvania State University Mont Alto reveals a significant downward trend in reported incidents over the last decade. In 2013, the average number of crimes per 1,000 students was 14.63, which gradually increased to a peak of 18.94 in 2015. However, from 2016 onward, there has been a remarkable decline. By 2020, the rate had dropped to just 1.0, and since 2021, no crimes have been reported on campus.
This trend is particularly noteworthy, as the substantial decrease in crime rates can be indicative of improved campus safety measures, heightened awareness among students, and effective law enforcement strategies. The absence of any reported incidents in recent years highlights a positive shift in the campus environment, potentially making it a more attractive place for current and prospective students.
Moreover, the data showcases that violent crimes, such as assaults and domestic violence, have seen significant reductions. This aligns with broader national trends that emphasize the importance of campus safety initiatives and community engagement in reducing crime rates.
As universities across the country strive to maintain safe environments for their students, Penn State Mont Alto serves as a case study demonstrating that sustained efforts can lead to success in crime reduction. Overall, the encouraging statistics reflect a commitment to fostering a safe and secure educational atmosphere, contributing to the overall well-being of the student body. For more information on crime rate calculation, please 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.