University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania (commonly referred to as Penn or UPenn) is an American private Ivy League research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Incorporated as The Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania, Penn is one of 14 founding members of the Association of American Universities and one of the nine original Colonial Colleges.

Penn offers a broad range of academic departments, an extensive research enterprise and a number of community outreach and public service programs. Its undergraduate programs are also among the most selective in the country (approximately 10% acceptance rate). One of Penn's most well known academic qualities is its emphasis on interdisciplinary education, which it promotes through numerous joint degree programs, research centers and professorships, a unified campus, and the ability for students to take classes from any of Penn's schools (the "One University Policy").

• Annenberg School for Communication

• Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

• Graduate School of Education

• Law School

• Perelman School of Medicine

• School of Dental Medicine

• School of Design

• School of Engineering and Applied Science

• School of Nursing

• School of Social Policy and Practice

• School of Veterinary Medicine

• The Wharton School

The University of Pennsylvania was found in 1740, when a prominent evangelist, George Whitefield, and others established an educational trust fund and began construction of a large school building at Fourth and Arch streets in Philadelphia.

Benjamin Franklin, Penn's founder, advocated an educational program that focused as much on practical education for commerce and public service as on the classics and theology. Penn was one of the first academic institutions to follow a multidisciplinary model, concentrating multiple "faculties" into one institution. It was also home to many other educational innovations such as the first school of medicine in North America, the first collegiate business school and the first "student union" building and organization. 

The University considers itself the fourth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, as well as the first university in the United States with both undergraduate and graduate studies.

The University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. On June 26, 2014, the Commission reaffirmed the University's accreditation, as reflected in the most recent Statement of Accreditation Status. This action followed a rigorous process in which the University prepared an in-depth campus-wide Self-Study Report and was reviewed by an evaluation team consisting of faculty members and administrators from peer institutions. 

Penn's College Houses provide supportive residential communities for the education of undergraduate students. Room and board fees in academic year 2014-15 were $13,464. Off-Campus Services assists students, faculty and staff at all stages of their off-campus living experience. The office provides information on housing options, landlords, roommates, leasing, tenant rights and responsibilities, utilities, insurance, safety and tenant feedback. The monthly rent for an apartment with 1 bedroom is about 1000$. 

Retail dining options include 1920 Dining Commons, home to The Burger and Sandwich Shop, Starbucks and Subway, Houston Hall and its Houston Market, Mark's Café in the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center and McClelland Café in the Quad. The average price of a meal in Philadelphia is about 10$.

The university campus has a developed retail chain. From computers to textbooks and T-shirts, shopping on and around campus is convenient and entertaining.

One-way ticket in local transport costs 2.25 $.

The university offers health and welfare services (counseling and psychological services, student health service, public safety), career planning and placement for students, academic support programs, gives an opportunity to participate in various student clubs and organizations. From the one-of-a-kind museums on campus to accomplished student performances in music, dance and theater, culture and the arts play a leading role in life at Penn. Penn offers many unique and exciting opportunities for students, faculty and staff to participate in competitive team sports and stay physically fit at world-class training centers. Also child care available through the Penn Children's Center.

University of Pennsylvania excels in instruction and research in the arts and sciences and in a wide range of professional disciplines. Penn produces future leaders through excellent programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. Consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the country, Penn is a major urban university that is committed to strength and vitality in each of its communities. Penn's eminent, award-winning educators and scholars encourage students to follow their passions, pursue inquiry and discovery, and address the most challenging problems through an interdisciplinaryapproach. Financial need is not a barrier to a quality Penn education. Penn admits undergraduate students without regard to need, and offers "no-loan" financial aid—all financially eligible undergraduates have all loans replaced with grants.