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Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania

Bloomsburg, PA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

2022
Founded
Public
Type
9,309
Total Students
$11K
Tuition (In-State)
$23K
Tuition (Out-State)
$19K
Avg Net Price
95%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Graduation Rate
6-year
75%
Retention Rate
President: Bashar W. Hanna

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania

Three historic universities unite to form a dynamic public institution for modern learners.

Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania stands as a unique and forward-thinking public institution, officially established in 2022. Born from the strategic consolidation of three respected universities—Bloomsburg University, Lock Haven University, and Mansfield University—it represents an innovative approach to higher education designed to strengthen and adapt to the evolving needs of students and communities in Pennsylvania. This bold move by the PASSHE Board of Governors in 2021 created a robust regional powerhouse, offering a rich tapestry of academic and campus experiences.

Historically, Commonwealth University's formation addresses the imperative to enhance resources and opportunities for students, ensuring a vibrant future for public higher education. Each of the former universities now thrives as a distinct campus under the unified Commonwealth banner, proudly retaining its individual heritage. Prospective students will discover campuses alive with unique traditions, mascots—from the Bloomsburg Husky to the Lock Haven Bald Eagle and the Mansfield Mountaineer—and official colors, all while benefiting from shared academic excellence and comprehensive support systems. This structure fosters a diverse and interconnected learning environment.

Under the leadership of inaugural President Bashar W. Hanna, Commonwealth University has seamlessly integrated the curricula of its three legacy institutions by August 2024, promising a cohesive yet broad range of academic programs. Students at Commonwealth University engage in a vibrant collegiate experience, marked by strong academic pathways and spirited participation in NCAA Division II athletics as part of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. With its commitment to accessible education and a strong sense of community across its campuses, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania offers a compelling journey for today's and tomorrow's leaders.

Key Highlights

  • Established in 2022 through the consolidation of Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield Universities.
  • Operates as a multi-campus institution, with each campus maintaining its unique mascots and colors.
  • Offers NCAA Division II athletics as a member of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.
  • Integrated the curricula of all three legacy campuses by August 2024, providing diverse academic pathways.
  • Led by inaugural President Bashar W. Hanna since July 2022, guiding its foundational development.
  • A public university committed to accessible and comprehensive higher education.

Timeline

2021
PASSHE Board of Governors votes to consolidate six schools, forming Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania.
2022
Dr. Bashar W. Hanna officially named inaugural President of Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania.
2022
Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania opens its doors to its first students in August.
2024
All three legacy institutions fully integrate their curricula by August, creating a unified academic experience.
2025
Announcement made in January that the Clearfield campus will close by the end of the 2026-27 academic year.
🏛️
4 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Bashar W. Hanna
President
Michelle Kiec
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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