Lehigh University

ABOUT UNIVERSITY

Lehigh University (LU) is a private research university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States. Founded in 1865 by businessman Asa Packer, the university was established to provide a thorough education in civil, mechanical, and mining engineering, as well as chemistry, metallurgy, the classics, and general literature. Initially an all-male institution, Lehigh became coeducational in the 1971–72 academic year, allowing both men and women to pursue undergraduate programs. As of 2022, the university enrolled 5,911 undergraduate students and 1,781 graduate students. It is classified as a "Doctoral Universities R1: Very High Research Activity" institution, reflecting its strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Over its history, Lehigh has developed a reputation for rigorous academics, innovation, and contributions to engineering, science, and the liberal arts.The university’s campus is situated in the historically industrial Lehigh Valley region of eastern Pennsylvania and spans 2,350 acres, including 150 buildings and 180 acres of recreational and playing fields. Lehigh is organized into three main contiguous campuses on and around South Mountain. The Asa Packer Campus, the original and primary campus, is built into the northern slope of the mountain and houses most academic and administrative facilities. The Mountaintop Campus, located at the top of South Mountain, includes intramural sports fields, Imbt Laboratories, and Iacocca Hall, providing space for both research and athletic activities. The Murray H. Goodman Campus, situated south in Lower Saucon, is primarily dedicated to athletic facilities, including Goodman Stadium. In 2012, the university expanded through a gift of 755 acres from the Donald B. and Dorothy L. Stabler Foundation in Upper Saucon Township, enabling long-term development and growth.Throughout its history, Lehigh University has combined strong academics, extensive research, and rich campus life to foster a supportive and innovative educational environment. Its combination of rigorous programs, diverse facilities, and research opportunities makes it one of the leading private universities in the United States. Today, Lehigh continues to uphold its founder’s vision of comprehensive education while adapting to modern academic and technological advancements.