Pennsylvania State University announced plans to close some of its Commonwealth campuses as enrollment continues to decline. The decision, part of an effort to create a more sustainable system, will not take effect until after the 2026-27 academic year, allowing students currently enrolled to complete their programs or transition to other campuses.
While the university has not determined how many campuses will close, 12 locations will undergo evaluation. These include campuses in Beaver, DuBois, Fayette, Greater Allegheny, Hazleton, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Schuylkill, Shenango, Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and York. A team of administrators will assess enrollment trends, academic programs, and regional population shifts before making recommendations by the end of the semester.
Eight campuses are safe from closure, including three in the Philadelphia region—Brandywine, Abington, and Great Valley—along with Altoona, Behrend, Berks, Harrisburg, and Lehigh Valley. These locations account for nearly 75% of Commonwealth Campus enrollment and most faculty and staff positions.
Declining student numbers have driven the decision. Since 2010, enrollment at the Commonwealth campuses has dropped by 30%, with some locations now serving fewer than 400 students. While Penn State’s main campus has continued to grow, the university faces financial challenges, including a past budget deficit of $191 million.
Faculty and students have expressed concerns about the impact of closures, particularly for those who rely on local campuses for affordability and accessibility. University leadership has committed to helping affected students, faculty, and staff transition.
The move follows a broader trend of campus closures and mergers nationwide as colleges respond to shifting demographics and financial pressures.
Source: Penn State University