Overview
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College is an open admission public four-year institution in Erie, Pennsylvania. The school accepts most applicants who complete the application process.
Admission Guide
Penn State Behrend accepts applications through the standard Penn State application system, with priority consideration for fall admission if you apply by November 30. You can submit your application as late as February, but housing and financial aid opportunities become more limited with later submissions.
The engineering programs at Behrend require stronger academic credentials than the general admission standards, particularly mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. Nursing also maintains higher admission requirements and limited enrollment capacity. If you're applying to these competitive programs, submit your application early in the cycle.
Housing fills quickly at this smaller campus, so submit your housing application immediately after being admitted. First-year students must live on campus unless they commute from home within a 25-mile radius. The campus offers apartment-style and traditional residence halls, with newer facilities being the most popular.
Behrend operates as a four-year campus where you can complete your entire degree, unlike some Penn State campuses that require transfer to University Park. The campus sits on 854 acres overlooking Lake Erie, creating a distinct college town atmosphere separate from downtown Erie.
You'll need to complete orientation before enrolling in classes. Academic advising happens during orientation, where you'll register for your first semester courses. Engineering students attend a separate orientation that covers program-specific requirements and co-op opportunities with local industries.
The campus maintains strong connections with Erie-area employers, particularly in manufacturing and healthcare. Many students complete internships or co-ops with local companies like UPMC Hamot, GE Transportation, and Wabtec Corporation during their studies.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $22,951/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $15,944
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $26,668
- Students Receiving Aid
- 27%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 45.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,435/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 82.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College?
Penn State Erie-Behrend follows the same application deadlines as the Penn State system. The priority deadline is November 30 for fall admission, with rolling admissions continuing through the summer if space remains available.
Does Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College require SAT or ACT scores?
Penn State Erie-Behrend is test-optional for most applicants. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
Can you transfer to main campus from Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College?
Students at Penn State Erie-Behrend can apply for internal transfer to University Park or other Penn State campuses. Transfer depends on academic performance, space availability, and meeting specific program requirements.
What majors can you complete entirely at Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Erie-Behrend College?
Penn State Erie-Behrend offers four-year degree programs in engineering, business, science, liberal arts, and other fields. Students can complete bachelor's degrees on campus without transferring to University Park.