Penn State University has proposed closing seven of its branch campuses by spring 2027 in response to financial strain and declining enrollment across Pennsylvania.
The recommendation came after internal documents were leaked, prompting the university to clarify its plans.
What Happened
On Tuesday, Penn State University’s Board of Trustees announced a recommendation to close seven branch campuses across Pennsylvania. The affected campuses would cease operations after the 2026–27 academic year.
The closures follow months of review due to falling student enrollment and budgetary issues—including reduced state funding.
Key Details
The campuses proposed for closure include:
| Campus | Location |
|---|---|
| DuBois | DuBois, PA |
| Fayette | Lemont Furnace, PA |
| Mont Alto | Mont Alto, PA |
| New Kensington | New Kensington, PA |
| Shenango | Sharon, PA |
| Wilkes-Barre | Lehman, PA |
| York | York, PA |
Previously, 12 campuses were under consideration for closure. However, the following campuses have been removed from the closure list:
- Beaver
- Greater Allegheny
- Hazleton
- Schuylkill
- Scranton
Reactions or Statements
Penn State issued a statement expressing regret that the news reached the public before official discussions concluded:
“It is regrettable that our communities who may be impacted by campus closures are hearing information before a final decision by the Board of Trustees and an announcement from the University,” the statement read.
The university emphasized its commitment to supporting affected students and staff.
Support for Students and Staff
Penn State assured that all impacted students will be able to complete their degrees through alternate campuses or programs within the university.
Additional support includes:
- Transfer options and academic advising
- Priority hiring consideration for faculty and staff at other Penn State locations
- Access to campus services and resources during the transition
What’s Next
The board will hold a closed executive session on Thursday to continue discussions. A public meeting is expected to follow, though the date has not been announced.
A final decision on the campus closures has not yet been made.
FAQs
Why is Penn State closing these campuses?
Declining enrollment and reduced state funding have made it financially unsustainable to keep all campuses open.
When will the closures take place?
If approved, the seven campuses would close following the Spring 2027 semester.
Will students be able to finish their degrees?
Yes. Penn State has stated that all affected students will have a pathway to complete their degrees.
Are jobs being cut?
Faculty and staff will be considered for priority hiring at other Penn State campuses.
Has a final decision been made?
No. The recommendation is not final. A decision will be made after further board discussions and a public meeting.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Penn State University is taking significant steps to consolidate operations amid financial challenges, recommending the closure of seven campuses by 2027. While the move is not yet final, it signals a major shift in how the university operates across Pennsylvania. Students and faculty are being offered transitional support, but communities are bracing for potential impacts.
