Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

Key Highlights

• Public research university with state support
• Town setting offering focused academic environment
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

The Learning Center provides free tutoring in most subjects, with drop-in hours and scheduled appointments available throughout the week. Peer tutors undergo training in instructional methods and receive ongoing supervision from professional staff. Writing support comes through a dedicated writing center where trained consultants help students at any stage of the writing process, from brainstorming to final proofreading. Math and science tutoring happens in dedicated labs with equipment for hands-on learning. Career services begin working with students during freshman year, introducing career exploration tools and internship databases. By junior year, students engage in mock interviews, resume reviews, and job search strategies. The office hosts career fairs each semester with employers from healthcare, education, government, and business sectors. Alumni frequently return to recruit or mentor current students, and the university tracks employment outcomes to ensure graduates succeed in finding relevant positions. Counseling and student health services operate in a centralized wellness center on the main campus. Students can access mental health counseling, medical appointments, and wellness programming without cost beyond tuition and fees. The disability resource center coordinates accommodations for students with documented disabilities, including extended testing time, note-taking assistance, and accessible housing assignments. Technology support includes free software downloads, laptop lending programs, and 24/7 help desk assistance.

Location & Surroundings

Situated in Shippensburg, PA, United States, Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania enjoys a location that offers both educational and lifestyle advantages. Students benefit from access to local industries, cultural institutions, and recreational opportunities. The surrounding area provides internship and employment possibilities that enhance the educational experience.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Pennsylvania residents pay approximately $12,000 in tuition and fees annually, while out-of-state students face costs around $20,000. Room and board add roughly $13,000 for students living on campus with a meal plan. Total cost of attendance hovers near $25,000 for in-state students and $33,000 for out-of-state students. These figures place Shippensburg among the more affordable options in the region, especially compared to private universities charging $50,000 or more. About 85% of students receive some form of financial aid, including federal grants, state grants, institutional scholarships, work-study, and loans. The FAFSA serves as the primary application for need-based aid, and the university encourages filing by February 15 for priority consideration. Merit scholarships require no separate application, as the admissions office automatically considers applicants based on GPA and test scores submitted with the application. The university participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program for military veterans and their dependents, covering costs beyond standard GI Bill benefits. Payment plans allow families to spread tuition across monthly installments without interest charges. Student employment opportunities exist across campus in dining services, recreational facilities, academic departments, and administrative offices. Work-study positions typically pay minimum wage and accommodate class schedules, allowing students to earn spending money while gaining workplace experience.

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