Penn State Behrend offers a unique blend of small-college atmosphere and big-university resources, providing students with personalized attention, access to research, and a respected degree. However, it also has drawbacks such as limited program offerings compared to University Park and a location that may not appeal to everyone. Understanding the pros and cons of Penn State Behrend can help you decide if it’s the right fit for your academic and personal goals.
Background: What Is Penn State Behrend?
Penn State Behrend, officially known as the Pennsylvania State University at Erie, The Behrend College, is a four-year college within the Pennsylvania State University system. Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, it was established in 1948 and has grown to serve more than 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Behrend is one of Penn State’s largest commonwealth campuses, offering over 40 bachelor’s degrees, several master’s programs, and numerous minors and certificates.
The campus spans over 850 acres and features modern facilities, including research labs, residence halls, and the Jack Burke Research and Economic Development Center. Behrend is known for its emphasis on hands-on learning, undergraduate research, and strong connections to local industry, especially in engineering and business fields.
Academic Strengths and Limitations
Pros: Penn State Behrend is highly regarded for its engineering, business, and science programs. The School of Engineering is ABET-accredited, and the Black School of Business is AACSB-accredited, two markers of quality that appeal to employers. Small class sizes—often under 30 students—allow for more direct interaction with professors. Undergraduate students have ample opportunities for research, internships, and co-ops. The college also offers the 2+2 plan, enabling students to start at Behrend and finish their degree at University Park or another campus.
Cons: While the academic offerings are robust, they are not as extensive as at the flagship University Park campus. Some specialized majors or highly ranked programs (e.g., certain liberal arts or advanced research concentrations) are unavailable at Behrend. Students seeking niche or highly competitive majors may need to transfer after two years or start elsewhere.
Campus Life and Student Experience
Pros: Students at Penn State Behrend often describe a close-knit, supportive campus community. With around 120 student organizations, NCAA Division III athletics, and numerous campus events, there are many opportunities to get involved. Residence halls and apartment-style housing are available, and the campus is known for being safe and scenic, with wooded trails and Lake Erie nearby. Many students appreciate the balance between a traditional college feel and smaller campus size, which can help with the transition to college life.
Cons: Some students find campus life quieter compared to larger universities, especially on weekends when many students go home. While there are clubs and events, the social scene is less vibrant than at schools with tens of thousands of students. The surrounding city of Erie is mid-sized and offers some entertainment, but it may not satisfy those looking for a bustling urban environment.
Cost, Value, and Financial Aid
Pros: Tuition at Penn State Behrend is typically lower than at University Park, especially for in-state students. The college offers a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships, and many students qualify for financial aid. Students benefit from Penn State’s strong alumni network, which can help with internships and job placement, adding value to the degree.
Cons: As a public university, tuition for out-of-state students is higher and can be a barrier. While costs are lower than private colleges, they are not the lowest among public options in Pennsylvania. Some fees and living costs can add up, particularly for those who live off-campus or require special program fees.
Career Preparation and Outcomes
Pros: Penn State Behrend has a strong track record for career placement, especially in engineering, business, and STEM fields. The college’s partnerships with local industry, including GE Transportation, Erie Insurance, and other regional employers, provide internship and job opportunities. The Career and Internship Center offers resume help, mock interviews, career fairs, and on-campus recruiting. The Penn State name carries weight with employers nationwide.
Cons: Some students in less career-focused majors may need to be more proactive in seeking internships or networking opportunities. While job placement is strong in certain fields, outcomes can vary by major and individual effort. Students aiming for international careers or extremely competitive graduate programs may find broader opportunities at larger research universities.
Comparing Penn State Behrend to University Park and Other Campuses
- Size and Atmosphere: Behrend has a smaller student body and more intimate campus feel than University Park, which enrolls over 40,000 undergraduates. This can mean more personal attention but fewer large-scale events.
- Academic Offerings: University Park offers more majors, research facilities, and extracurriculars. Behrend’s offerings are strong but more focused.
- Location: Behrend is in Erie, a smaller city with a lakeside setting, while University Park is in State College, a quintessential college town. Other Penn State campuses are even smaller and may have fewer resources.
- Cost: Tuition is generally lower at Behrend and other commonwealth campuses, making them attractive for budget-conscious students.
- Student Outcomes: All Penn State degrees are awarded by the university as a whole, so Behrend grads receive the same diploma as University Park students. However, networking and recruiting may be broader at the flagship campus.
Safety and Student Support
Penn State Behrend is known for its safe campus environment. The college has its own police force, emergency alert systems, and well-lit paths. Student support services include counseling, health services, tutoring, and academic advising. The relatively small campus size helps faculty and staff know students by name and offer personalized support, which can be especially helpful for first-generation or out-of-state students.
However, as with any campus, students should take standard precautions, especially when off campus or in unfamiliar parts of Erie. The city itself has areas of higher and lower crime, but the campus is generally considered safe and welcoming.
Common Challenges and Student Concerns
- Weather: Erie experiences heavy snowfall and cold winters, which can be a challenge for those unaccustomed to lake-effect snow.
- Limited Nightlife: Students looking for a vibrant party scene may find Behrend more subdued than larger universities.
- Transportation: While Behrend has campus shuttles and is accessible by car, public transportation options are limited compared to urban campuses.
- Transferring: Some students use Behrend as a starting point before transferring to University Park. While the transition is well supported, it does require planning and meeting GPA requirements.
Who Should Consider Penn State Behrend?
Penn State Behrend is ideal for students seeking a blend of personalized education and the prestige of a major research university. It’s particularly strong for those interested in engineering, business, or science who value hands-on learning and close faculty relationships. Students who thrive in smaller, quieter environments—yet want access to the Penn State network—often find Behrend a good fit. Those seeking a large, bustling campus or highly specialized programs may prefer University Park or another university.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a degree from Penn State Behrend the same as University Park?
Yes. All Penn State campuses confer the same degree, and your diploma will state “The Pennsylvania State University” without specifying the campus. However, your transcript will show your campus locations.
Can I transfer from Behrend to University Park?
Yes, many students start at Behrend and transfer to University Park after two years through the 2+2 plan. You need to meet GPA and prerequisite requirements for your intended major.
What is campus life like at Behrend?
Campus life is active but more low-key than at larger universities. There are clubs, sports, and events, but the atmosphere is generally quieter, especially on weekends.
How does financial aid work at Behrend?
Students at Behrend are eligible for the same federal and state aid as other Penn State students, as well as campus-specific scholarships. The financial aid office helps students navigate options.
What are the housing options on campus?
Behrend offers traditional residence halls, suite-style housing, and on-campus apartments. Many first-year students live on campus, while upperclassmen may choose off-campus housing.
Is Penn State Behrend a good value?
For many students, Behrend offers a strong return on investment, especially in high-demand fields like engineering and business. Lower tuition than University Park and strong job placement are key advantages.
Alternatives to Penn State Behrend
If you’re considering Penn State Behrend, you may also want to look at these alternatives:
- Penn State Erie (Behrend) vs. University Park: University Park offers more programs, larger campus life, but at a higher cost and with more competition.
- Other Penn State Commonwealth Campuses: Campuses like Harrisburg, Altoona, or Abington may have different atmospheres, academic strengths, and locations.
- Regional Public Universities: Edinboro University (now part of Pennsylvania Western University), Slippery Rock, and Clarion are other public options in western Pennsylvania.
- Private Colleges in the Region: Gannon University and Mercyhurst University in Erie offer similar class sizes and campus settings but at higher tuition rates.
Each alternative has its own pros and cons, so consider your academic interests, budget, and preferred campus environment when making your decision.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Penn State Behrend offers a strong academic reputation, personalized education, and good career outcomes, especially for students interested in engineering, business, and science. Its smaller campus size fosters close relationships and a supportive community, but it may lack the breadth of programs and vibrant social life of larger universities. Cost, location, and available majors are important factors to weigh. If you value hands-on learning and a smaller college feel within a large university system, Behrend could be an excellent choice.