IUP: 175 Years of Student Success
Since opening its doors in 1875, Indiana University of Pennsylvania has built a reputation for its commitment to putting students first while offering top-notch academics and producing graduates who have made impacts around the world. Located in the heart of western Pennsylvania, IUP has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the success of its students, making it a preferred choice for learners seeking both affordability and academic excellence. One of the hallmarks of IUP is its dedication to ensuring that financial constraints do not deter students from pursuing their educational dreams. IUP provides millions of dollars in scholarships to incoming and current students, making higher education accessible to a wider range of individuals. From merit-based scholarships recognizing exceptional academic achievement to need-based scholarships aimed at assisting students facing financial challenges, IUP’s commitment to affordability is unwavering. In addition to scholarships, IUP has taken steps to keep tuition costs reasonable. Recognizing the ever-increasing financial burden of higher education, the university has implemented cost-saving measures to ensure that students receive a valuable education without excessive debt. The University also offers a range of financial aid resources, including grants and work-study programs, to further alleviate the financial strain on students and their families. In recent years, IUP reduced tuition by almost 20 percent for all students, undergraduate and graduate, in-state and out-of-state. It has also kept housing and basic fees the same since 2016. “We understand the financial challenges that our students and families continue to face,” said IUP President Michael Driscoll. “Affordability is a serious concern. The core principle of our strategic plan is student-centeredness, and this action helps us to meet the needs and wants of our students, as we continue to maintain our academic quality and rigor.” IUP’s commitment to affordability extends beyond scholarships and tuition rates. The University is also known for its commitment to student success. With a student-centric approach, IUP provides various support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling, to ensure that students receive the guidance they need to excel both in and beyond the classroom. One example of this is the navigators program, where every student is assigned to a staffer who works proactively to help them navigate the challenges of college life. “The mission … is clear and direct: to help each and every student at IUP persist while providing the highest quality academic and personal experience possible, from pre-enrollment through program completion,” Driscoll said. The University’s efforts to put students first are evident in its impressive alumni network. IUP boasts a long list of graduates who have gone on to achieve remarkable success in various fields, including business, politics, science, and the arts. These alumni serve as a testament to the University’s commitment to producing well-rounded and accomplished individuals. One such notable alumnus is Maria Newton, who graduated from IUP in 2018 with a double major in international business and Spanish. Newton came to IUP from a small town and now works for Lord Abbett in New York City. She attributes much of her success to the strong foundation she received at IUP. “People always tell you that you know you can be or do anything in life,” Newton said, “but by going to IUP, and spreading my wings there, it really showed me that I could.” IUP’s academic reputation also plays a pivotal role in attracting students from across the nation and around the world. The University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including the arts and humanities, sciences, business, and education. Its dedicated faculty members are renowned for their expertise and commitment to academic excellence. As IUP celebrates its rich history and continues to make strides in ensuring students come first, it remains an institution that values affordability, academic excellence, and the success of its graduates. With a steadfast commitment to its mission, IUP is poised to continue producing world-class graduates who will make impressive contributions to society. As IUP looks to the future, its dedication to students and academic excellence remains as steadfast as ever, ensuring that IUP will continue to shine in the years to come.