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Colleges / PA / Altoona
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona logo

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Altoona

Public Altoona, PA · Urban · Mid-Atlantic · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
17%
Graduation Rate
$63,435
Earnings (10yr)
$22,213
Net Price
98%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an enrollment of 2,367 students and an acceptance rate of 98%, Penn State Altoona is a welcoming environment for those looking for a supportive community. This school is especially suited for students interested in practical fields such as Health Professions, Business & Marketing, Computer Science & IT, Psychology, and Education. The openness of the admissions process means that students who might not have perfect grades still have a chance to pursue their educational goals.

In terms of life after graduation, the financial outlook is promising. Graduates earn an average of $63,435 within ten years of completing their degree. This suggests that students can expect to find opportunities that lead to solid earnings, even if the graduation rate sits at 17%. The affordability aspect cannot be overlooked either, with a net price of $22,213 after aid, making it a feasible option for many students.

When we look at the debt situation, the median debt stands at $25,000, which is manageable for many who graduate. The 29% Pell Grant rate indicates that financial support is available for those who qualify. Students who thrive here tend to be those who are proactive about seeking help and resources, whether academic or financial. It's a place where determination and practical skills can lead to a rewarding career path.

Rankings

How Pennsylvania Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation17%Earnings 10yr$63KNet Price$22KRetention80%Median Debt$25KPell Grant Rate29%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$16K$0-30K$17K$30-48K$19K$48-75K$28K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$15,972
In-State Tuition
$26,958
Out-of-State
$22,213
Avg Net Price
$25,000
Median Debt
29%
Pell Grant Rate
54%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$16,017
Family Income $0–$30K
$16,546
Family Income $30K–$48K
$19,464
Family Income $48K–$75K
$28,263
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

1.39
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.03
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
4.1%
Volunteering Rate
0.96
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 98%
Retention Rate 80%
SAT Average 1187
SAT Range 1070–1290
ACT Range 22–28
Full-Time Faculty 77%
Faculty Salary (mo) $9,491
Diversity Index 0.51
First-Gen Students 29%

Top Programs

Health Professions 20%
Business & Marketing 17%
Computer Science & IT 9%
Psychology 7%
Education 7%
Criminal Justice 6%
Engineering 4%
Biology & Biomedical 4%

Quick Facts

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

Student Body

Female
50%
White
68%
Hispanic
10%
Black
8%
Asian
5%

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

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