Overview: Lehigh University
Lehigh University, established in 1865, is a distinguished private research university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States. Founded by businessman Asa Packer, the institution has evolved to become a comprehensive, research-intensive university renowned for academic excellence. Lehigh enrolls approximately 7,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs and is organized into four colleges spanning over a 2,350-acre picturesque campus. The university’s place among America’s historic academic institutions underscores its longstanding commitment to fostering innovation and leadership.
Academic Strengths and Structure
Lehigh is particularly acclaimed for its programs in engineering, business, and the sciences, with the P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science regularly ranked among the top in the nation. Lehigh integrates interdisciplinary initiatives—such as its distinctive Integrated Degree in Engineering, Arts and Sciences (IDEAS) program—emphasizing collaborative, problem-based learning. Research is a cornerstone, with over $90 million in annual research expenditures and numerous faculty engaged in international research consortia. Lehigh maintains robust global collaborations and has been recognized in the top tier of national universities by U.S. News & World Report. The university’s commitment to innovation has also fostered technology transfer and entrepreneurial ventures, enhancing its profile within national and global academic communities.
Student Life and Community
Lehigh offers a vibrant campus life that includes more than 200 student organizations, cultural societies, and special interest groups. The university emphasizes a strong sense of community, championing values of diversity, equity, and internationalization—about 12% of its student body comprises international students. Robust support services, from career development to mental health counseling, are available to foster student well-being. On-campus housing accommodates most undergraduates, and a competitive athletics program encompasses 25 NCAA Division I teams. Students enjoy a flourishing arts scene and active engagement in leadership, service, and social initiatives that enrich the university experience both academically and personally.
Mission, Vision, and Values
Lehigh University is dedicated to advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and developing ethical global leaders. Emphasizing social responsibility, sustainability, and inclusivity, Lehigh aspires to empower graduates to drive transformative change within and beyond their fields.
