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Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

Harrisburg, PA

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Wikipedia
2001
Founded
Private university
Type
650
Total Students
$1M
Endowment
$24K
Tuition (In-State)
$24K
Tuition (Out-State)
$14K
Avg Net Price
82%
Acceptance Rate
43%
Graduation Rate
6-year
73%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: David A. Schankweiler

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

About Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

Igniting STEM innovation in Pennsylvania's capital, built on science and tech education.

Born out of a critical need to foster educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology was founded in 2001. Prior to its establishment, Harrisburg stood as the largest state capital in the U.S. without a four-year university, a gap Harrisburg University was created to fill. With an initial $12 million in state capital funding, it quickly established itself as a pivotal institution dedicated to preparing a skilled workforce for the future.

The university is a hub for specialized learning and innovation, housing numerous research centers such as the Center for Advanced Entertainment and Learning Technologies, the Security Center of Excellence, and the Center for Advanced Agriculture and Sustainability. Its academic prowess is particularly highlighted by its Master of Science in Computer Information Sciences program, which has been validated by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), underscoring its commitment to cutting-edge cybersecurity education. The university also offers a Bachelor and Master of Science in Cybersecurity Operations & Control Management, attracting a diverse body of 6,500 students.

Beyond traditional academics, Harrisburg University emphasizes practical, professional education through strategic partnerships with businesses and government. These collaborations drive programs in areas like agile lean methodologies, geospatial technology, and user experience, ensuring students are equipped with in-demand skills. While navigating recent financial challenges and restructuring, the university remains focused on its core mission: delivering robust STEM education and contributing to regional and national technological advancement.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 2001 to address the critical need for STEM education in Pennsylvania's capital.
  • Designated by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD).
  • Offers an NSA-validated Master of Science in Computer Information Sciences program.
  • Serves 6,500 students with a strong focus on science and technology careers.
  • Hosts multiple specialized research centers, including the Center for Advanced Entertainment and Learning Technologies.
  • Partners with businesses and local government to offer extensive professional education programs.

Timeline

2001
Founded as Harrisburg Polytechnic Institute.
2003
Received $12 million in state capital funding for construction.
2003
Changed name to Harrisburg University of Science and Technology.
2020
Researchers announced controversial facial recognition software project.
2023
University downsized employees due to budget shortfall.
2024
Designated by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD).
2024
Missed a bond payment, signaling cash flow crunch.
2024
Experienced a second round of layoffs.
2024
Closed international locations in Dubai and Panama.
🏛️
25 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

7 notable schools within Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

🏫

Agile Lean Center

🏫

Center for Advanced Entertainment and Learning Technologies

🏫

Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

🏫

Geospatial Technology Center

🏛️

Government Technology Institute

🏫

Security Center of Excellence

🏫

User Experience Center

Leadership

via Wikipedia
David A. Schankweiler
President
Kevin M. Purcell, Ph.D.
Provost

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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