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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus

Public University Park, PA · Urban · Mid-Atlantic · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
86%
Graduation Rate
$63,435
Earnings (10yr)
$32,875
Net Price
61%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an enrollment of nearly 42,300 students, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is a great fit for those looking for a vibrant campus life paired with solid academics. The acceptance rate stands at 61%, which means students can find a welcoming environment to explore their interests. Popular fields of study include Business and Marketing, Engineering, Computer Science and IT, Communications, and Social Sciences. This diversity in programs allows students to tailor their education to their career goals.

After graduation, students can expect strong earning potential, with a median income of $63,435 a decade post-degree. This figure suggests that the education received here has real value in the job market, helping graduates secure positions that often lead to upward mobility. While 14% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating support for those from lower-income backgrounds, the overall affordability of the university is something to consider when planning for the future.

When it comes to the financial aspects, the net price stands at $32,875 after aid, with a median debt load of $25,000 for graduates. This balance between cost and potential earnings suggests that many students can manage their financial commitments effectively. Those who thrive here tend to be motivated and adaptable, ready to engage with both the academic and social opportunities available on campus.

Rankings

How Pennsylvania Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation86%Earnings 10yr$63KNet Price$33KRetention93%Median Debt$25KPell Grant Rate14%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$20K$0-30K$20K$30-48K$26K$48-75K$38K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$20,644
In-State Tuition
$41,790
Out-of-State
$32,875
Avg Net Price
$25,000
Median Debt
14%
Pell Grant Rate
40%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$19,845
Family Income $0–$30K
$20,049
Family Income $30K–$48K
$25,667
Family Income $48K–$75K
$37,831
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$55,620
6 Years After Entry
$60,370
8 Years
$63,435
10 Years
0.39x
Debt-to-Earnings
73%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$55,620 6yr $60,370 8yr $63,435 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.71
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.00
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
6.0%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 61%
Retention Rate 93%
SAT Average 1337
SAT Range 1240–1420
ACT Range 27–32
Full-Time Faculty 86%
Faculty Salary (mo) $13,120
Diversity Index 0.58
First-Gen Students 29%

Top Programs

Business & Marketing 19%
Engineering 14%
Computer Science & IT 12%
Communications 7%
Social Sciences 6%
Biology & Biomedical 6%
Psychology 4%
Health Professions 4%

Quick Facts

Setting Urban
Region Mid-Atlantic
Accreditor Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Predominant Degree Bachelor's

Student Body

Female
50%
White
63%
Hispanic
9%
Black
5%
Asian
8%

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

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