Founded in 1858, Susquehanna University is a private liberal arts college located in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. Nestled within the scenic Susquehanna Valley, the university spans a 325-acre campus that provides an intimate academic experience, with a student body of around 2,300. It offers more than 60 majors and minors across its School of Arts and Sciences and the Sigmund Weis School of Business, maintaining a commitment to the liberal arts tradition alongside pre-professional and professional programs.
Susquehanna University sets itself apart with its Global Opportunities (GO) program, requiring every student to have a meaningful cross-cultural experience to graduate. This commitment to developing global competencies ensures that graduates are culturally aware and can navigate a diverse world. Furthermore, Susquehanna's emphasis on research, internships, and creative projects fosters hands-on learning experiences from the very start of a student's journey. The Freshwater Research Initiative, for instance, offers opportunities for students to engage in critical environmental research in the Susquehanna River Basin.
Positive attributes of Susquehanna University are numerous, including its consistently high rankings for study abroad participation. The intimate class sizes-where the student-to-faculty ratio is 12:1-allow for personalized attention and mentoring that contribute to a supportive and collaborative academic atmosphere. The university's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its practices and policies, from green buildings to a robust recycling program. Additionally, the institution prides itself on its commitment to community service, with a wealth of service-learning options that positively impact the local community.
Despite its strengths, Susquehanna University faces challenges, much like any institution. One such challenge is demographic changes, predominantly affecting liberal arts colleges across the Northeast, leading to a more competitive market for attracting and retaining students. Moreover, being situated in a small town might not appeal to those seeking an urban college experience, potentially limiting its draw for a subset of prospective students who desire a livelier, city-centered atmosphere. While Susquehanna University strives to offer diverse experiences, it must continuously work to adapt and innovate in the face of these challenges, to ensure it remains a competitive choice for higher education.
