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Kutztown University of Pennsylvania is a public, comprehensive institution located in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. Established in 1866 as the Keystone Normal School, originally, the school’s name was changed to Kutztown Teachers College in 1928 and again to Kutztown State College in 1960. By 1983, the school was granted university status and adopted its current name. Kutztown University of Pennsylvania is a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, which consists of fourteen public universities. Kutztown University of Pennsylvania is situated on a 289 acre campus, adjacent to the Borough of Kutztown in Berks County. Kutztown itself is a quaint area set in a beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch community, offering many hiking trails, stores, shops, and much more. Kutztown is conveniently located between Reading and Allentown and is approximately 70 miles away from both Philadelphia and Harrisburg, providing students with access to a wealth of opportunities academically and in their careers.
Academic Programs
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has been so since 1944. The University’s mission is to “provide a higher quality education at the undergraduate and graduate levels in order to prepare students to meet lifelong intellectual, ethical, social, and career challenges.” Kutztown University is made up of four colleges of Business, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Visual and Performing Arts. More than 100 majors, minors and concentrations are offered at the undergraduate level, as well as nearly two dozen graduate degree programs. Kutztown University also proudly offers a number of options for adults seeking to continue their education, including several online programs. The University follows a schedule consisting of two 15-week long terms, two summer sessions and one online winter session.Named one of the best schools in terms of military-friendliness, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania offers a number of academic support services, including a Veterans Service Center. Several special programs are also offered at Kutztown University, including honors program; international exchange, study abroad and domestic study away programs; independent study; internships; student/faculty research; and living/learning communities.
Student Life
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania has a total enrollment figure of more than 9,000, including over 8,500 undergraduate students. The majority of students are Pennsylvania residents, though representatives from over 40 states and nations do make up the student body. More than 40% of students choose to live in on-campus in university housing which includes traditional residence halls, suite-style, and apartment-style living arrangements. The rest of students live either at home or in nearby apartments. Kutztown University recently renovated its eateries and beginning in 2016 offers options which include all-you-care-to-eat and 24/7 dining.Approximately 200 student-led clubs and organizations exist, catering to a wide range of interests. These include groups focused on civic engagement, diversified focus, faith-based, Greek life, media and publications, recreational sports, special interest and visual and performing arts. Kutztown University’s Student Recreation Center offers plenty of options for students to stay fit and active including a rock climbing wall, fitness programs, racquetball courts, gymnasiums, and fitness equipment and juice bar. As a member of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, Kutztown University’s varsity teams compete at the NCAA Division II level. In addition to its several intercollegiate sports teams, Kutztown University also offers nearly 20 recreational and sports clubs.