Why Lehigh University Stands Out: A Comprehensive Guide For Future Engineers And Scholars

Gerda Heller 15 May 2025

Welcome to the ultimate guide on Lehigh University! If you're reading this, chances are you're either dreaming about attending one of America's top-tier institutions or you're just plain curious about what makes Lehigh so special. Lehigh University is more than just a school—it’s a place where dreams take shape, and where students are molded into leaders who will shape the future. So, buckle up because we're diving deep into everything Lehigh University has to offer!

Now, let’s be real here. Choosing the right college can feel like picking a needle out of a haystack. You’ve got rankings, reviews, and all sorts of buzzwords flying around, but how do you know which one’s truly worth your time and investment? That’s where Lehigh University comes in. It’s not just another name on the list; it’s a powerhouse of education, innovation, and opportunity.

Whether you’re an aspiring engineer, a future business guru, or someone who’s just looking for a well-rounded college experience, Lehigh University has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes Lehigh University a standout institution in the world of higher education.

A Brief History of Lehigh University
Academics That Set Lehigh Apart
Why Lehigh Engineering Is a Big Deal
Campus Life: More Than Just Classes
Cracking the Lehigh Admissions Code
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Lehigh Alumni Network: A Powerful Connection
Research Opportunities at Lehigh
Lehigh Sports: More Than Just a Game
The Future of Lehigh University

A Brief History of Lehigh University

Let’s rewind the clock a little bit. Lehigh University was founded way back in 1865 by Asa Packer, a wealthy entrepreneur who believed in the power of education to transform lives. Packer’s vision was simple yet bold: create a place where students could learn the skills they needed to succeed in the industrial world. And guess what? His dream became a reality. Lehigh University opened its doors to its first class of students in 1866, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Fast forward to today, and Lehigh University has grown into a globally recognized institution with a reputation for excellence in engineering, business, and the arts. It’s part of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), which is basically the Ivy League of research institutions. Lehigh’s commitment to innovation, diversity, and inclusivity has made it a go-to choice for students from all over the world.

But here’s the kicker: Lehigh isn’t just about its history. It’s about its future. The university continues to evolve, embracing new technologies, teaching methods, and research opportunities to ensure that it remains at the forefront of higher education. And that’s what makes it so exciting for prospective students like you!

Fun Facts About Lehigh’s History

Lehigh’s first building, Packer Hall, was named after its founder, Asa Packer.
The university’s mascot, the Mountain Hawk, was adopted in 1995 to replace the old mascot, the Brown and White.
Lehigh is one of the few universities in the U.S. to offer a fully residential campus experience for all four years.

Academics That Set Lehigh Apart

Alright, let’s talk academics. Lehigh University is known for its rigorous and comprehensive academic programs. Whether you’re into engineering, business, arts, or sciences, Lehigh has got you covered. The university offers over 70 undergraduate programs, 46 master’s programs, and 25 doctoral programs, so there’s something for everyone.

One of the things that sets Lehigh apart is its commitment to interdisciplinary learning. Students aren’t just siloed into one field of study. Instead, they’re encouraged to explore different disciplines and see how they intersect. This holistic approach to education ensures that students graduate with a well-rounded skill set that’s highly sought after by employers.

And let’s not forget about the faculty. Lehigh boasts some of the brightest minds in their respective fields. Professors here aren’t just teachers; they’re researchers, innovators, and mentors who are deeply invested in the success of their students. The student-to-faculty ratio is a mere 9:1, meaning you’ll get plenty of personalized attention and guidance throughout your academic journey.

Lehigh’s Key Academic Departments

College of Engineering and Applied Science: Ranked among the top engineering schools in the country.
College of Business and Economics: Known for its strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and global business.
College of Arts and Sciences: Offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.

Why Lehigh Engineering Is a Big Deal

If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in engineering, Lehigh University should be at the top of your list. The College of Engineering and Applied Science is consistently ranked among the best in the nation, and for good reason. Lehigh’s engineering programs are designed to prepare students for the challenges of the modern world, whether it’s developing sustainable technologies or solving complex global problems.

One of the standout features of Lehigh’s engineering program is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Students aren’t just sitting in lecture halls all day; they’re getting their hands dirty in labs, working on real-world projects, and collaborating with industry partners. This practical approach ensures that students graduate with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their careers.

Plus, Lehigh’s location in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, puts it in close proximity to some of the country’s leading tech hubs, including New York City and Philadelphia. This means students have access to internships, co-ops, and job opportunities with some of the biggest names in the industry.

Top Engineering Programs at Lehigh

Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Chemical Engineering

Campus Life: More Than Just Classes

Lehigh isn’t just about academics. Campus life here is vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunities to get involved. From student organizations to cultural events, there’s always something happening on campus. Whether you’re into sports, music, theater, or volunteering, you’ll find a community of like-minded individuals who share your passions.

And let’s talk about the facilities. Lehigh’s campus is a beautiful blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. You’ve got state-of-the-art labs, cutting-edge technology, and recreational facilities that rival those of professional sports teams. The university also offers a wide range of housing options, from traditional dorms to apartment-style living, ensuring that students have a comfortable and convenient place to call home.

Oh, and did I mention the food? Lehigh’s dining options are top-notch, offering everything from farm-to-table meals to international cuisines. So, whether you’re craving a gourmet burger or a plate of authentic sushi, you’ll find it on campus.

Popular Campus Activities

Lehigh-Lafayette Rivalry: One of the oldest and most intense college football rivalries in the country.
Campus Concerts: Featuring performances by both student groups and professional artists.
Community Service Projects: Opportunities to give back to the local community and beyond.

Cracking the Lehigh Admissions Code

Getting into Lehigh University isn’t easy, but it’s definitely doable. The admissions process is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 25%. But don’t let that discourage you. Lehigh is looking for students who are not only academically strong but also well-rounded and passionate about making a difference in the world.

Here’s a breakdown of what Lehigh looks for in its applicants:

Academic Performance: Strong grades in challenging courses are a must.
Standardized Test Scores: While Lehigh is test-optional, submitting strong SAT or ACT scores can strengthen your application.
Extracurricular Activities: Showcasing leadership, creativity, and community involvement can set you apart from other applicants.

And here’s a pro tip: Make sure your application tells a story. Admissions officers want to get to know you as a person, not just a collection of numbers and achievements. So, take the time to craft a compelling personal statement and gather strong letters of recommendation from teachers who know you well.

Lehigh Admissions Timeline

Early Decision: November 1st
Regular Decision: January 1st
Notification of Acceptance: Mid-March for Early Decision, Mid-April for Regular Decision

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Let’s talk money. College can be expensive, but Lehigh University offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options to help make it more affordable. The university is committed to ensuring that cost doesn’t become a barrier to education, and they work hard to meet the financial needs of their students.

Lehigh offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships, as well as federal and state aid programs. The university also has a robust work-study program, allowing students to earn money while gaining valuable experience on campus.

And here’s the best part: Lehigh meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students. So, if you’ve got the grades and the passion, money shouldn’t stop you from attending one of the best universities in the country.

Types of Scholarships at Lehigh

Presidential Scholarship
Trustee Scholarship
Dean’s Scholarship

Lehigh Alumni Network: A Powerful Connection

Lehigh’s alumni network is one of its strongest assets. With over 70,000 graduates worldwide, Lehigh alumni are making waves in industries ranging from engineering to entertainment. These successful professionals are not only leaders in their fields but also committed to giving back to their alma mater.

Lehigh’s alumni network offers a wide range of resources for current students, including mentorship programs, networking events, and job placement assistance. Whether you’re looking for internships, career advice, or just someone to bounce ideas off of, Lehigh’s alumni are here to help.

And let’s not forget about the Lehigh advantage. Graduates of Lehigh University are highly sought after by employers, thanks to the university’s reputation for producing well-rounded, skilled, and innovative professionals. So, whether you’re entering the workforce or pursuing further education, Lehigh’s alumni network is a powerful tool in your arsenal.

Notable Lehigh Alumni

Greg LeMond: Three-time Tour de France winner
Jacqueline Novogratz: Founder of Acumen, a nonprofit investing in entrepreneurs
John Sculley: Former CEO of Apple Inc.

Research Opportunities at Lehigh

Research is a huge part of what makes Lehigh University so special. The university is home to world-class research facilities and centers, where students and faculty collaborate on cutting-edge projects that have the potential to change the world. From renewable energy to artificial intelligence, Lehigh’s research initiatives are at the forefront of innovation.

Undergraduate students have ample opportunities to get involved in research projects, working alongside faculty members and graduate students. This hands-on experience not only enhances their academic knowledge but also prepares them for careers in research and development.

And here’s the kicker: Lehigh’s research isn’t just theoretical. It’s applied. Students and faculty are working on real-world problems, developing solutions that have a tangible impact on society. Whether it’s creating new materials for sustainable construction or designing algorithms to improve healthcare, Lehigh’s research is making a difference.

Lehigh’s Key Research Centers

Photo Gallery Lehigh University

Undergraduate Admissions Lehigh University

Assorted High Resolution Pictures of Lehigh Campus and the Neighboring

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