At Penn State Altoona, you'll find the appeal of a small, private college, with the name recognition and prestige of a major research university. Our goal is to help you reach your goals—educational, personal, and professional.Penn State Altoona offers 24 majors, five associate degrees, and numerous minor and certificate programs that can be completed at Penn State Altoona. In addition, we offer the first two years of classes for more than 275 Penn State majors that can be completed at University Park or other Penn State Locations.In addition to our degree programs, Penn State Altoona offers many out-of-class experiences, with research, internships, and study abroad opportunities; clubs and organizations; and recreational activities including NCAA Division III varsity athletics, club sports, fitness classes, and more.At Penn State Altoona, we strive to create a vibrant learning environment through our teaching excellence, research and creative accomplishments, and civic, social, and cultural contributions in order to empower students to reach their full potential.Founded in 1939, Penn State Altoona has enjoyed a long and vibrant history in the Altoona community. From its humble beginning as Altoona Undergraduate Center in the Webster Grade School Building in downtown Altoona, to its current location at the former Ivyside Amusement Park and expansion back into downtown Altoona, Penn State Altoona is proud of its past and poised for an exciting future.