Legislature, governor boost Penn College’s state appropriation

With the signing of House Bill 1461 on Thursday by Gov. Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania College of Technology’s state appropriation for 2023-24 increases by $3.23 million (12.1%) to $29.97 million. Lawmakers approved the legislation on Wednesday.

With the exception of Lincoln University, which will see the same increase as Penn College, other state-related universities (Penn State, Temple and Pitt), have been flat-funded. Penn College, a special mission affiliate of Penn State, has its appropriation request submitted through the university.

“We are most appreciative of the additional funding from the Legislature and governor, which will help us continue to provide the type of hands-on education in high-demand career fields that meets the needs of Pennsylvania business and industry,” said Penn College President Michael J. Reed.

“Providing high-quality instruction in STEM-related occupations entails higher costs than a liberal arts education – in order to keep pace with technological advancements,” Reed added. “The payoff is that our graduates learn in an environment that makes them real-world ready from day one in a variety of essential occupations, providing them with an excellent return on their investment. Employers frequently tell us they will hire as many of our graduates as we can produce.”

“The General Assembly has long said that we should pay for performance when it comes to our institutions of higher education,” said Sen. Gene Yaw, chair of the college’s Board of Directors. “Time and time again, Penn College has risen to the occasion. PCT is an institution that has uplifted its community and trained tomorrow’s workforce for more than a century, and they are setting the standard for technical education and innovation around the world. I am very pleased we have taken this step in rewarding their outstanding performance.”

“We believe Penn College’s uncommon mission – with its laser focus on applied technology STEM education that leads to a best-in-class return on investment for students – was fundamental in securing this increase in our appropriation,” said Patrick Marty, the college’s chief government and international relations officer. “The college appreciates the support of legislative leaders, especially those who have taken the opportunity to see, firsthand, how our approach allows us to respond nimbly to workforce needs, both in their own districts and across Pennsylvania – providing a vital boost to the commonwealth’s economy.”

Marty noted that Penn College Advocates (students, faculty, staff, alumni, industry partners and friends of the college) made their voices heard with legislators during the entire appropriations funding process.

Penn College enrolls 4,307 students in high-demand associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, along with certificates and credentials, in career fields ranging from welding, electrical, automotive and construction to information technology, polymers, aviation and nursing.

Nearly 89 percent of Penn College students reside within Pennsylvania. The college has an operating budget of $122.01 million and a total budget of $178.15 million.

Penn College was ranked No. 1 both in Most Innovative Schools – Regional Colleges North and Undergraduate Teaching – Regional Colleges North (tied) in U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 Best Colleges rankings. The college earned a No. 4 ranking in Top Public Schools and a No. 2 ranking for Best Colleges for Veterans –both in Regional Colleges North.

For more about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education and a special mission affiliate of Penn State, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.