Overview of Lehigh University
Lehigh University, founded in 1865 by industrialist Asa Packer, is a private, research-intensive institution located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA. Renowned for its rigorous academic environment and innovation, Lehigh occupies a picturesque 2,358-acre campus, nestled in the Lehigh Valley. The university enrolls approximately 7,100 students, with around 5,400 undergraduates and 1,700 graduate students. Comprising five distinct colleges—including Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Engineering and Applied Science, and Health—Lehigh offers an intimate academic setting balanced with comprehensive research initiatives, making it a credible and globally significant institution.
Lehigh University is widely recognized for its strengths in engineering, business, and the STEM disciplines, regularly ranked among the top institutions in the United States for these fields. Its hallmark programs, such as the Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) honors program and the Computer Science and Business (CSB) joint degree, reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary learning. The institution encourages collaborative research, boasting over $65 million in annual research expenditures and partnerships with global organizations and universities. Lehigh is a member of the UIIN (University Industry Innovation Network) and maintains robust ties to industry, further enhancing its graduates’ employability. The university’s numerous patents, international exchange programs, and high placement rates for graduates testify to its academic excellence and innovation.
Student life at Lehigh is vibrant, with more than 200 clubs and organizations spanning cultural, professional, and recreational interests. The campus hosts an array of events including annual arts festivals, entrepreneurship competitions, and multicultural celebrations, fostering a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. Lehigh demonstrates a steadfast commitment to diversity and internationalization, with students from over 60 countries and a comprehensive suite of support services ranging from academic advising to wellness resources. Residential life offers a variety of living-learning communities, while Division I athletics, club sports, and arts initiatives enrich the extracurricular landscape, promoting holistic student development.
Lehigh University’s mission is to advance learning through research and teaching, develop engaged global citizens, and promote innovation and sustainability. The university emphasizes integrity, excellence, and leadership in pursuit of education that empowers students to address complex, real-world challenges.
