Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Berks
The Vibe Check
Penn State Berks feels like a tight-knit, supportive community where you're a name, not a number. It's a smaller campus with a close connection to the local Reading area, offering a more intimate college experience than the massive University Park campus. You get the Penn State name and resources with a personalized, hands-on approach.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The college offers a solid foundation with strong programs in business, engineering, and computer science, often featuring hands-on learning through dedicated labs and facilities. As a Penn State campus, students benefit from the university's vast academic resources and a faculty focused on undergraduate teaching. While research opportunities exist, they are more limited compared to the main campus, often focusing on applied and local projects.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Reading
Students often explore Reading's growing arts scene, including the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, and enjoy the diverse local food scene. For outdoor fun, nearby opportunities like the Reading Public Museum and outdoor activities along the Schuylkill River Trail are popular. On campus, student life is centered around clubs, intramural sports, and campus-organized events.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($63,435):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus itself is generally considered safe with standard security measures, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially as you move off-campus. The city of Reading has higher crime rates than its suburbs, so students are advised to use campus safety escorts and avoid walking alone at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High acceptance rate makes it an accessible option for many students.
- ✓ Students earn a respected Penn State degree, which carries weight in the job market.
- ✓ Smaller class sizes allow for more personalized attention from faculty.
- ✓ The campus offers a modern, suburban setting with a tight-knit community feel.
Cons
- ✗ The 29% graduation rate is a significant concern and suggests challenges in student completion.
- ✗ Limited on-campus housing and a smaller social scene may not appeal to students seeking a large university experience.
- ✗ The surrounding city of Reading has economic challenges and higher crime rates compared to other college towns.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Penn State Berks is known for providing the Penn State experience in a smaller, more intimate campus setting. It has academic strengths in Business & Marketing, Engineering, and Computer Science, and is recognized for its hands-on learning opportunities and close-knit community. The campus also features unique programs like its accredited 'Communities in the Classroom' initiative.
No, Penn State Berks has a very high acceptance rate of 97.13%, making it an accessible option for most applicants. While it's not highly selective, a strong application is still recommended. The average SAT score for enrolled students is around 1219, suggesting that admitted students are generally prepared for college-level work.
Campus life is community-focused and active, with over 70 student clubs and organizations. Students can participate in NCAA Division III athletics, intramural sports, and events hosted by the campus activity board. The campus has a modern feel with facilities like the Perkins Student Center and new residence halls, fostering a strong sense of belonging.
For in-state students, the degree offers a solid return on investment, with median 10-year earnings of $63,435 exceeding the total four-year cost. The value comes from the powerful Penn State alumni network and a degree that is respected by employers. However, the high net price and low graduation rate are important factors to consider when evaluating its worth.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 2,287
- In-State Tuition $15,944
- Out-of-State $26,668
- Zip Code 19610
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
The net price is relatively high for a public regional campus, but the value is strong if you're an in-state student. The 10-year median earnings of over $63,000 suggest a solid return on investment, especially compared to the total cost. For out-of-state students, the higher tuition makes it crucial to secure scholarships to make the financial value more competitive.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.