Lehigh University

Global Rank | US Rank | State Rank | History | Popular Courses & Fees | Specialty | Research | Campus Life | Alumni Network

Lehigh University, a prestigious private research university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania:

Global Rank | US Rank | State Rank

  • Global Rank: Lehigh University is ranked among the top 500 universities globally by QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE).
  • US Rank: Lehigh is consistently ranked within the top 50 national universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
  • State Rank: Lehigh is one of the top 5 universities in Pennsylvania, often competing with institutions like the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) and Carnegie Mellon University.

History

  • Founded in 1865 by businessman Asa Packer, Lehigh University was established to provide a rigorous education in engineering, business, and the arts.
  • It is known for its historic campus, which features a mix of modern and Gothic-style architecture.
  • Lehigh is a member of the Patriot League for athletics and has a strong tradition of academic excellence and innovation.

Popular Courses & Fees

  • Popular Programs:
    • Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Industrial, and Chemical Engineering)
    • Business (Accounting, Finance, and Supply Chain Management)
    • Computer Science and Information Technology
    • Psychology and Education
    • Architecture and Design
  • Undergraduate Tuition: Approximately $62,180 per year (2023-2024).
  • Graduate Tuition: Varies by program, but typically ranges from 1,500to1,500to2,500 per credit hour.
  • Additional fees for housing, meals, and books may apply.

Specialty

  • Lehigh is renowned for its engineering and business programs, particularly through its P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science and College of Business.
  • It is also known for its interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to combine studies across fields like engineering, business, and the arts.
  • Lehigh’s Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) program is highly regarded for blending technical and business skills.

Research

  • Lehigh is classified as an R1 Research University by the Carnegie Foundation, indicating very high research activity.
  • Key research areas include:
    • Advanced materials and nanotechnology
    • Environmental sustainability
    • Data science and cybersecurity
    • Structural engineering and infrastructure
  • The university is home to several research centers, including:
    • Center for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology
    • Institute for Cyber Physical Infrastructure and Energy (I-CPIE)
    • Mountaintop Campus: A unique space for interdisciplinary research and innovation.

Campus Life

  • Location: Lehigh’s campus is situated in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a historic city in the Lehigh Valley. The campus is known for its scenic beauty, with views of the Lehigh River and South Mountain.
  • Student Organizations: Over 200 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and Greek life (about 30% of students participate in Greek life).
  • Athletics: Lehigh’s teams, known as the Mountain Hawks, compete in NCAA Division I (Patriot League). The university has a strong rivalry with nearby Lafayette College.
  • Housing: On-campus housing is available, with options for freshmen and upperclassmen. Many students live in fraternity or sorority houses.
  • Diversity: Lehigh has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 U.S. states and over 70 countries.

Alumni Network

  • Lehigh has a strong alumni network of over 90,000 members worldwide.
  • Notable alumni include:
    • Lee Iacocca: Former CEO of Chrysler and Ford.
    • Roger Penske: Founder of Penske Corporation and a prominent figure in motorsports.
    • Jesse W. Reno: Inventor of the escalator.
  • The alumni network provides career support, networking opportunities, and mentorship programs.

Summary

Lehigh University is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and interdisciplinary studies. With a beautiful campus, a focus on research, and a vibrant student life, Lehigh offers a well-rounded educational experience. While tuition is on the higher side, the university’s reputation and alumni network provide excellent career opportunities for graduates. Its location in the Lehigh Valley offers a mix of historic charm and access to major cities like Philadelphia and New York.