Penn State Altoona

Overview

Penn State Altoona, located in Altoona, Pennsylvania, is a public institution established in 1939 as an extension campus of the Pennsylvania State University. This undergraduate college features a suburban setting approximately 45 minutes from State College and two hours east of Pittsburgh. Penn State Altoona offers more than 40 degree programs, with particular strengths in engineering, business, nursing, and criminal justice. The campus is home to modern facilities, including the Sheetz Family Health Center and the Ivyside Science Building. Penn State Altoona's admissions process is moderately selective. Housing is available for students in on-campus residence halls, such as Cedar and Spruce Halls, which include Living Learning Communities to enhance educational experiences. While Penn State Altoona does not have an extensive focus on athletics, it supports a range of Division III sports teams known as the Altoona Lions.

In the most recent statistical year 7,523 prospective students applied, and 7,204 were granted admission.  Of those admitted 905 enrolled in the school.  2,499 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 78 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $15,388 plus fees of $516. Penn State Altoona is ranked 584 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.