About
Penn State Harrisburg, also known as The Capital College, is an undergraduate college and graduate school of the Pennsylvania State University located in Lower Swatara Township, Pennsylvania. The campus is located 9 miles south of Harrisburg, the state capital.Penn State Harrisburg offers more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs and the first two years of study leading to more than 275+ majors offered throughout Penn State. The college also offers a variety of accelerated degree programs and online courses.
Penn State Harrisburg is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The college has a student body of over 5,000 students, and the faculty consists of over 400 full-time and part-time professors. Penn State Harrisburg is a member of the NCAA Division II and competes in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). The college's mascot is the Lion. The acceptance rate for international students at Penn State Harrisburg is private. However, the overall acceptance rate for the college is 88%.
The tuition fees for international students at Penn State Harrisburg vary depending on the student's residency status and the program they are enrolled in. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the tuition fee for international students is $25,854. The tuition fees are in addition to the cost of room and board, estimated to be $12,984 for the 2022-2023 academic year. International students must also pay a fee of $516 per semester. The total cost of attendance for international students at Penn State Harrisburg is estimated to be $39,354 for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Penn State Harrisburg is not ranked globally in the central university rankings, such as the QS World University or the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. However, the college is ranked #426 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 for "Business and Management."
Top Reasons to Study in the Penn State Harrisburg
- Strong academics: Penn State Harrisburg offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate programs accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The college is also home to several research centres and institutes, which provide students with opportunities to conduct research and collaborate with faculty.
- Strong faculty: The faculty at Penn State Harrisburg are experts in their fields and are committed to helping students succeed. The college has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, which means that students have plenty of opportunities to get to know their professors and get help with their studies.
- Vibrant campus life: Penn State Harrisburg has a vibrant campus life, with various clubs, organisations, and events. There are also several opportunities for students to get involved in the community, both on and off campus.
- Affordable tuition: Penn State Harrisburg is a public college, so tuition is more affordable than many private colleges. The college also offers several financial aid options, which can help to make it even more affordable.
- Convenient location: Penn State Harrisburg is in Lower Swatara Township, Pennsylvania, 9 miles south of Harrisburg, the state capital. This makes it a convenient location for students who want to be close to the city and be in a more rural setting.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
88%
Application Fee
$65 - $85
How to Apply at Penn State Harrisburg
The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. Additional requirements are there for fresh and transfer undergraduate and graduate students.
Fresh Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions
- Application: You can apply through the Common Application or Online Application from their official website.
- The application fee is $75 for international students.
- Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
- Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
- English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo
- Personal statement/Essay writing
- Two letters of teacher recommendation
- Financial Aid Statement of Intent
Transfer Students Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions
- Application: You can apply through the Common Application or Online Application from their official website.
- The application fee is $75 for international students.
- Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
- Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
- Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
- English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo
- Personal statement/essay writing
- Transfer Report Form
- Letter of recommendation
- Financial documentation
Documents Required to Apply to Penn State Harrisburg
Undergraduate Students
- Complete the Common Application from their official website
- Official transcripts from all previous your high school attended
- SAT/ACT scores
- Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores.
- Personal statement/Essay writing
- Two letters of recommendation
- Financial documentation
- Resume
- Additional Documents:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
- I-20 Form
- Passport
- Visa Sponsorship Letter
Graduate Students/PhD or Scholar Students
- Complete the Common Application from their official website
- Official transcripts from all previous from your high school or college attended
- GRE/GMAT scores
- Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores.
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume (Relevant work experience)
- Additional Documents:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
- I-20 Form
- Passport
- Visa Sponsorship Letter
All documents must be in English or have an official English translation
Exams Accepted By Penn State Harrisburg
Undergraduate Students
- Entrance Tests: SAT/ACT exam.
- English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores.
Graduate Students/Ph.D. Students
- Entrance Tests: GRE/GMAT exam
- English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores.
Campus Life
Transportation in the city
- Public bus: The Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides bus service throughout the city and surrounding area. CATA buses are free for Penn State students, faculty, and staff.
- Taxi: Several taxi companies operate in the city. Taxis can be hailed from the street or called for pickup.
- Ride-sharing: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in the city. Ride-sharing services can be a convenient way to get around, especially if travelling with a group.
- Bicycle: The city has several bike lanes and trails, making it a great place to get around by bicycle. There are also several bike-sharing programs available in the city.
- Walking: The city is relatively compact, making it easy to get around on foot. Walking is a great way to explore the city and get some exercise at the same time.
Services offered by the university
- Academic advising: The Office of Academic Advising provides students with individual and group advising to help them plan their academic careers.
- Career counselling: The Career Development Center provides students with career counselling, job search assistance, and resume and cover letter writing help.
- Financial aid: The Office of Financial Aid helps students apply for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.
- Health services: The Student Health Center provides students with medical, dental, and mental health services.
- Student life: The Division of Student Affairs provides various student life activities, including clubs, organisations, and events.
- Technology support: The Information Technology Services (ITS) department provides students, faculty, and staff with technical support for computers, printers, and other technology.
Student life at Penn State Harrisburg
- Join a club or organisation: Penn State Harrisburg has over 100 student clubs and organisations, so there will surely be something for everyone. Clubs range from academic and professional organisations to social and recreational clubs.
- Get involved in intramural sports: Penn State Harrisburg offers a variety of intramural sports, including basketball, soccer, flag football, and volleyball. Intramural sports are a great way to stay active and have fun with friends.
- Attend campus events: Penn State Harrisburg hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and festivals. These events are a great way to meet new people and get involved on campus.
- Volunteer in the community: There are many opportunities to volunteer around Penn State Harrisburg. Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and make a difference.
- Explore the city of Harrisburg: Harrisburg is a great city with a lot to offer. There are museums, historical sites, and parks to explore. You can also catch a show at the theatre or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
On campus accomodation at Penn State Harrisburg
- Capital Village: Capital Village is a traditional residence hall that houses first-year students. It offers suites with two or four bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. The hall also has a community centre with a game room, a fitness centre, and a laundry facility.
- Nittany Village: Nittany Village is an apartment-style residence hall that houses upper-class students. It offers apartments with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, and a kitchen. The apartments are furnished and have a washer and dryer in each unit.
Capital Village and Nittany Village are on campus, close to academic buildings, dining halls, and the student union. They offer a variety of amenities, including:
- Recreational facilities: Both residence halls have fitness centres, game rooms, and laundry facilities.
- Dining options: There are two dining halls on campus and various restaurants and cafes.
- Student life: Both residence halls have a variety of student life activities, including clubs, organisations, and events.
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
- Number of faculty: Penn State Harrisburg has over 400 full-time and part-time faculty.
- Student-to-faculty ratio: The student-to-faculty ratio at Penn State Harrisburg is 16:1.
- Faculty diversity: The faculty at Penn State Harrisburg is diverse, with faculty members from various backgrounds and experiences.
- Faculty research: The faculty at Penn State Harrisburg are actively engaged in research, and they publish their work in leading academic journals.
- Faculty teaching: The faculty at Penn State Harrisburg are committed to teaching, and they are dedicated to helping students succeed.
Career Opportunities
Internship opportunities at Penn State Harrisburg
- Internships: Penn State Harrisburg has several internship programs for undergraduate and graduate students. These internships are offered in various fields, including business, education, engineering, and public policy.
- Part-time jobs: Penn State Harrisburg also has several part-time jobs for students. These jobs are typically offered in student, recreation, and dining services.
- Work-study: Penn State Harrisburg also offers a work-study program for qualified students. The work-study program allows students to work part-time on campus while enrolled in school.
Resources
- The Career Development Center: The Career Development Center is an excellent resource for students seeking internships and part-time job opportunities. They have a database of job postings, and they can help you with your resume and cover letter.
- The Office of Student Employment: The Office of Student Employment is a good resource for students seeking part-time jobs on campus. They list open positions and can help you with your application.
- The Penn State Harrisburg website: The Penn State Harrisburg website has a section dedicated to internship and part-time job opportunities. You can search for jobs by keyword, location, and department.
- LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a great social media platform for finding internship and part-time job opportunities. You can search for jobs by keyword, location, and company.
Placement of Penn State Harrisburg
Job placement
According to the college's website, 97% of Penn State Harrisburg graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Hiring companies
Some of the top hiring companies for Penn State Harrisburg graduates include:
- Capital Blue Cross
- Deloitte
- Ernst & Young
- Highmark Health
- Lockheed Martin
- Select Medical Corporation
- Shell Oil Company
- Universal Health Services, Inc.
- Wells Fargo
Salaries
The average starting salary for Penn State Harrisburg graduates is $50,000. However, salaries can vary depending on the field of study and the company.
Photo Gallery
Popular Courses · 20
BS in Computer Science
26,374
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31,506
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MA in Applied Clinical Psychology
33,114
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Masters in Criminal Justice
25,100
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Masters in Engineering Management
26,638
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Masters in Engineering Science
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated August 14, 2026