University of Pennsylvania

204 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA

University of Pennsylvania ("Penn") is recognized as America's first university. It is an urban university, internationally recognized as a great institution of higher learning and research. It is home to the nation's first medical school, and the center of technological invention. In 1946, the school released the first electronic, general-purpose digital computer. The school's founder, Benjamin Franklin, was noted for his many innovative inventions, including bifocal lenses and the lightning rod.

Penn ranks among the top 10 universities in the nation, and boasts a faculty of leaders in their fields. Among its acclaimed alumni, Penn boasts many innovators and pioneers, including 15 Nobel Prize winners, and the inventor of motion photography, Eadweard James Muybridge.

Penn offers an interdisciplinary approach to learning through many different programs including its on and off-campus study opportunities for cross-disciplinary or joint-major degrees at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels. It also offers continuing education, distance learning, summer programs, international programs, study grants, and more.

History

The University of Pennsylvania was founded by Benjamin Franklin, who was known for his dedication to education and intellectual pursuits, as well as his commitment to public service. Founded in 1749, the university opened its doors in 1751 as the Charity School of Philadelphia. In 1874, the university added a teaching hospital to its growing programs and campus.

Academics

The academic calendar for the University of Pennsylvania follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer semesters. It also offers a variety of special summer sessions and distance learning programs with flexible scheduling.

Colleges and Schools

• Annenberg School for Communication
• Graduate School of Education
• Law School
• Perelman School of Medicine
• School of Arts and Sciences
• School of Dental Medicine
• School of Design
• School of Engineering and Applied Science
• School of Nursing
• School of Social Policy and Practice
• School of Veterinary Medicine
• Wharton School (Business)

In addition to its 12 colleges and schools, the University of Pennsylvania offers a long list of research centers and institutes to choose from.

Student Life

There are hundreds of student groups and organizations available for involvement at the University of Pennsylvania. Student organizations cover every interest and focus, including academic, cultural, environmental, governmental, recreation and hobby groups. There are also honor societies, graduate and professional organizations, performing arts groups, political organizations, religious groups, service clubs, social clubs, publications and media, and many fraternities and sororities.

Many student services are available, as well as on campus housing, dining and shopping.

Traditions

The school colors for the University of Pennsylvania are red, blue and white.

Athletics

The Penn "Quakers" athletic teams participate in a wide range of intercollegiate sports, including:

Men's Sports:

• Baseball
• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Fencing
• Football
• Sprint Football
• Golf
• Lacrosse
• Rowing
• Soccer
• Squash
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Track and Field
• Wrestling 

Women's Sports:

• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Fencing
• Field Hockey
• Golf
• Gymnastics
• Lacrosse
• Rowing
• Soccer
• Softball
• Squash
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Track and Field
• Volleyball

Satellite Campuses

As with most ivy-league colleges, all of Penn's 12 academic schools are located on a single campus.

Community Life

Penn is known for its picturesque campus, situated in the vibrant, cultural city of Philadelphia. A full calendar of activities and entertainment are available on campus year-round, but the city also offers a vibrant nightlife, many museums and art galleries, a wide range of top restaurants, and plenty of shopping and sightseeing in historic areas.

The Civic House is Penn's hub for community service, and its Barbara and Edward Netter Center for Community Partnerships is a central office for community initiatives and service.