The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) graduated 21,000 students this academic year across its 10 universities. The system, which serves 82,000 students—90% of whom are Pennsylvania residents—has emphasized its role in supplying workers for high-need sectors amid the state’s demographic challenges.
About 70% of this year’s graduates earned degrees in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), healthcare, business, law enforcement, or education—fields facing labor shortages statewide.
PASSHE Chancellor Christopher Fiorentino said the system is focused on preparing students for high-demand careers and noted the universities’ responsibility to deliver an affordable and workforce-ready education.
The system has frozen tuition for seven of the past eight years, holding in-state rates at $7,716 per year—about one-third of the statewide average and less than half the national average, according to U.S. Department of Education data.
To maintain the freeze, PASSHE is requesting an additional $40.3 million in the upcoming state budget, aligning with Governor Josh Shapiro’s recommendation.
