University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Quick Facts
“Leges sine moribus vanae”("Laws without morals are useless")
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About University of Pennsylvania
Founded by Benjamin Franklin, Penn is a pioneering Ivy League institution known for its 'firsts' and cutting-edge research.
Step into a legacy of innovation at the University of Pennsylvania, an esteemed Ivy League research university brought to life by Benjamin Franklin's vision. Chartered in 1755, Penn has consistently been at the forefront of education, advocating for an institution that trains leaders across academia, commerce, and public service. Located in the vibrant University City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Penn offers a dynamic environment where history meets groundbreaking future-focused endeavors.
Penn is renowned for its academic excellence and a long list of 'firsts' in American higher education. It established the first medical school in North America, the world's first collegiate business school (the Wharton School), and the first American student union building (Houston Hall). With 4 undergraduate schools and 12 graduate and professional schools, Penn provides a comprehensive and rigorous education. Its commitment to discovery is evident in its substantial research expenditures, which ranked second nationally among U.S. universities in fiscal year 2024.
The student experience at Penn is rich and diverse, attracting individuals from across the globe and every U.S. state. From its historic Quadrangle Dormitories, which fostered a sense of community, to its modern campus facilities, students engage in a vibrant intellectual and social life. The university's strong athletic programs, the Penn Quakers, compete in the NCAA Division I Ivy League, further enriching campus spirit. Penn's enduring influence is reflected in its vast network of accomplished alumni, who have shaped nations, driven industries, and made profound societal contributions.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, chartered in 1755 as one of the nine colonial colleges.
- ✦First medical school in North America (1765) and the world's first collegiate business school (Wharton, 1881).
- ✦Endowment of $24.8 billion (2025) and $2.172 billion in research expenditures (FY2024), ranking 2nd nationally.
- ✦Home to 23,374 students (Fall 2022), including 9,760 undergraduates and 13,614 postgraduates.
- ✦Alumni and faculty include 3 U.S. Presidents, 38 Nobel laureates, 8 signers of the Declaration of Independence, and 7 signers of the U.S. Constitution.
- ✦Campus landmarks include Houston Hall, often described as the first student union building in the United States (1896).
- ✦The ENIAC, the world's first all-electronic digital computer, was created at Penn in 1946.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
7 notable schools within University of Pennsylvania
The Wharton School
The world's first collegiate business school, founded in 1881.
Medical School
The first medical school in North America (founded 1765).
Law School
Its first professor, James Wilson, helped write the U.S. Constitution.
School of Nursing
One of the university's four undergraduate and twelve graduate/professional schools.
School of Veterinary Medicine
The only school of veterinary medicine in the United States that originated directly from its medical school, established in 1884.
School of Dental Medicine
A professional school notable for graduating the first African American to earn a degree at Penn in 1881.
School of Education
A professional school where Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander earned her degree and later became the first African-American woman in the U.S. to earn a PhD from an American university.
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