Is Lehigh University a Good School? All You Need to Know Before Applying

You’re here because you’re wondering: is Lehigh University a good school? Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is considered as a great option for students looking to find a good balance of academics and campus life. Lehigh is recognized for its engineering and business programs, along with a close community that focuses on student needs.

Lehigh University is ranked #47 among National Universities and #22 among Best Value Schools by the U.S. News & World Report. According to the Office of Admissions, 57% of students who get in are in the top 10% of their high school class, which means the competition is fierce but still achievable for dedicated students. So, is Lehigh University a good school? Let’s get into it.

• What Makes Lehigh University a Good School?
• Lehigh University GPA Requirements
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Makes Lehigh University a Good School?

Lehigh is considered a good school. Lehigh University offers a well-rounded experience for students who want both strong academics and a vibrant campus life. Let’s break down the key factors that make Lehigh a great option for prospective students.

Strong academic programs

At Lehigh, you’ll get the best of both worlds—rigorous academic theory and hands-on practical learning. The school’s P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science ranks #19 among Best Industrial Engineering Schools, and their business school isn’t very far behind at #66 for Best Business Schools. Lehigh’s College of Business is recognized for its Accounting and Finance programs.

The Integrated Business and Engineering (IBE) honors program is one of the features that make Lehigh University a good school. This unique program merges business and engineering disciplines, which gives you the chance to explore real-world challenges and set yourself apart in a competitive job market. This combination of academic rigor and cross-disciplinary learning is one reason Lehigh students graduate well-prepared for professional success.

Focus on entrepreneurship

If you’ve got an entrepreneurial spirit, Lehigh’s Baker Institute for Entrepreneurship offers incredible resources to turn your ideas into reality. The Baker Institute supports student startups through mentorship, seed funding, and access to a vast alumni network of successful entrepreneurs like Lee Iacocca, the former CEO of Chrysler Corporation.

If you’re interested in launching your own business or joining a fast-growing startup, Lehigh’s focus on entrepreneurship gives you the tools and connections to make it happen. This is just one of the many reasons why Lehigh University is considered a good school.

In recent years, students from Lehigh have started over 100 businesses while still in school, some of which have gained national attention. One success story is EcoTech Marine, co-founded by Lehigh alumni Patrick Clasen and Tim Marks. Their company, which produces high-end aquarium equipment, has grown into a leader in the reef aquarium industry.

Programs like EUREKA! Ventures Competition Series provide hands-on experience in business development, and you’ll get to compete for significant funding. This gives you the jumpstart you need to grow a business idea. If you have a knack for business, then Lehigh University may be a good school for you.

Close-knit community

Lehigh University’s student population includes over 5,000 undergraduate students and 2,000 graduate students. This small population offers an intimate, community-driven environment. Class sizes are small, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, so you’ll get to know your professors really well. This kind of access is important for building relationships, whether you’re seeking mentorship or research opportunities.

At Lehigh, you won’t feel like just another number. The smaller student body promotes a tight-knit environment where you’ll have the chance to know your classmates, join smaller study groups, and participate actively in clubs and organizations. If this is up your alley, then Lehigh University is a good school for you.

Clubs and organizations

Lehigh University offers various clubs and organizations to help you get involved and connect with other students. With over 200 student-run groups, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a creative outlet, a professional network, or just a fun way to meet people, Lehigh has you covered. Being part of these organizations can enrich your college experience and help you build valuable skills.

Here are some of the most popular clubs and organizations at Lehigh:

• Lehigh University Dance Marathon. This club raises funds for pediatric cancer through fun, student-led dance marathons. It’s a fantastic way to give back to the community while enjoying lively campus events.
• Investment Management Group. Interested in finance? You’ll get hands-on experience managing real investment portfolios. If you want to gain practical skills before graduation, this club’s a game-changer.
• Global Union. This club organizes international events that celebrate diversity on campus. You’ll get to experience different cultures and broaden your perspective.
• Engineers Without Borders. If you want to use your engineering skills for a good cause, this is the club for you. You’ll work on global projects that provide sustainable solutions to underserved communities.
• The Brown and White. Aspiring journalist? You can report on campus news and hone your media skills with Lehigh’s student-run newspaper. It’s the perfect spot to get your writing out there.
• Outing Club. If you love the outdoors, join the Outing Club and get into hiking, camping, and rock climbing with fellow nature enthusiasts. It’s a great way to break from studies and recharge in nature.
• Kappa Alpha Society. Want to be part of history? Join North America’s oldest fraternity, where you’ll build leadership skills and lifelong connections while continuing an incredible tradition.

These clubs give you the chance to explore your interests and also allow you to develop leadership skills and make lasting friendships. IIf you’re looking to achieve these, then Lehigh University is a good school for you.

Study abroad opportunities

Ever dreamt of studying business in China or exploring the arts in Italy? Lehigh offers over 200 study abroad programs in over 50 countries, which lets you earn credits while exploring the globe. From studying business in Shanghai to engaging in sustainability efforts in Costa Rica, there’s something for every interest.

Programs like Lehigh in Costa Rica immerse students in hands-on environmental projects, while Lehigh in Italy offers rich exposure to art and culture. Around 40% of Lehigh students participate in study abroad, which is higher than many other schools. The Global Lehigh Initiative provides guidance and helps students incorporate international experience into their academic plans.

Plus, through the Iacocca International Internship Program, you can land a fully funded internship abroad, gaining hands-on experience while seeing the world. How’s that for preparing you for a global career? If you enjoy both studying and traveling, then this is another reason why Lehigh University is a good school for you.

Research opportunities

Lehigh University is known for being one of the leading research universities in the U.S., boasting a research budget of around $11 million for 2016 to 2021. This funding means you can team up with faculty on groundbreaking projects right from the start. If you’re keen on pushing the boundaries of biomedical tech, tackling environmental challenges, or making strides in artificial intelligence, there are tons of chances for you to get involved in research.

For example, Lehigh’s Environmental Initiative focuses on interdisciplinary research to address global sustainability challenges. Their Health Research Hub also provides hands-on experience for students working on biomedical and healthcare-related projects. If you’re aiming to make an impact in your field, Lehigh University is a good school for you.

High career placement rates

If you’re thinking about life after Lehigh, you’ll be in good hands. Lehigh’s focus on career development is top-notch, and it shows. 95% of Lehigh graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within 6 months. The Center for Career & Professional Development is a big part of this success. They offer personalized help with internships, resumes, and interview prep. So, if you’re looking for your dream job or aiming for grad school, you’ll have solid support every step of the way.

The alumni network is another reason why Lehigh University is considered a good school, with strong ties in industries like finance, engineering, tech, and healthcare. Many students land internships and job offers through these connections, which gives them a serious advantage at top companies. If you’re thinking about your future career, Lehigh’s network can really open doors for you.

Alumni network

The alumni network is another reason why Lehigh University is considered a good school. With thousands of alumni in industries like finance, engineering, tech, and healthcare, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to connect, network, and secure internships or job offers. Here are a few notable Lehigh alumni:

• Lee Iacocca. Former CEO of Chrysler, Iacocca was instrumental in reviving the auto industry and is known for creating the Ford Mustang.
• Donna Dubinsky. Co-founder of Palm, Inc., she played a key role in the development of the first PDA, which eventually led to modern smartphones.
• Roger Penske. A motorsports legend, Penske is a successful businessman and founder of Penske Corporation.
• Richard Hayne. Founder of Urban Outfitters, he built one of the most successful retail clothing companies in the U.S.
• C.J. McCollum. A star in the NBA, McCollum is a standout both on and off the court, recognized for his leadership and community service.

These alumni show how diverse and influential Lehigh’s network can be and how it can set you up for long-term success. For that reason, Lehigh University is definitely a good school.

So, is Lehigh University a good school? Absolutely, but if you’re aiming to get in, understanding the GPA requirements is important. Think of your GPA as the foundation of your application. A competitive GPA shows you’ve worked hard, challenged yourself with tough courses, and are ready for the academic rigor at Lehigh.

Now that we’ve covered what makes Lehigh stand out, let’s break down the GPA expectations so you know exactly what to aim for to give your application the best chance possible.

Lehigh University GPA Requirements

If you’re aiming for Lehigh University, your GPA is definitely a big deal. While the school doesn’t have a strict minimum GPA, the average GPA of admitted students is about 3.85 on a 4.0 scale, placing it in the competitive range for high-achieving students.

Keep in mind that some of the more selective programs, like engineering or business, may look for even stronger academic performance. With an acceptance rate of around 29% for 2024, Lehigh is selective but not out of reach if you have a solid academic record.

Lehigh values students who challenge themselves, so having Honors, AP, or IB classes on your transcript can really boost your application. Admissions officers look for students who meet the GPA expectations and also show they can handle rigorous coursework. A strong GPA combined with an upward grade trend, especially in core subjects, can give you an edge.

If your GPA is slightly below this range, it’s not necessarily a dealbreaker. Lehigh reviews applications holistically, meaning they take into account your extracurriculars, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. A stellar academic record, combined with leadership roles or strong extracurricular involvement, can still make you a competitive applicant.

What about SAT/ACT scores?

Lehigh is test-optional, but submitting strong SAT or ACT scores can still help boost your application, especially if your GPA is on the lower side. For those who do submit scores, the middle 50% SAT range is 1320 to 1480, while ACT scores range from 30 to 34. Hitting these numbers shows you’re well-prepared for the academic rigor Lehigh expects.

If your scores fall within or above these ranges, it could give your application a competitive edge. Test scores can be particularly helpful for applicants aiming for more selective programs, like engineering or business.

While Lehigh places strong emphasis on GPA and test scores, they’re not everything. Lehigh’s admissions process ensures your entire application is taken into account, meaning your academic rigor, personal achievements, and even how you’ve pushed yourself in and out of the classroom will be noticed. If you’re balancing those factors well, you’re positioning yourself for success, not just in applying to Lehigh but also for what comes next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lehigh University known for?

Lehigh University is known for its strong engineering, business, and entrepreneurship programs. The university is also recognized for its research opportunities and hands-on learning, especially through the Baker Institute for entrepreneurship.

What is the Lehigh University student population?

Lehigh has around 7,000 students, with approximately 5,000 undergraduates and 2,000 graduate students. This creates a close-knit campus atmosphere with a focus on personalized education.

What’s the GPA requirement of Lehigh University?

There is no minimum requirement, but the average GPA for admitted students is around 3.85 on a 4.0 scale. Competitive programs like engineering may expect higher GPAs, especially if you’re applying to selective majors.

What is the Lehigh University acceptance rate?

Lehigh’s acceptance rate is approximately 29% for 2024, which makes it a selective university. However, admission standards can vary by program, with some departments being more competitive than others.

Takeaways

Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes Lehigh University a good school:

• Lehigh’s engineering and business programs are nationally recognized and their IBE honors program combines real-world challenges with classroom learning.
• With a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you won’t get lost in the crowd. You’ll really get to know your professors and classmates.
• Their career support is impressive, with 95% of graduates either employed or in grad school within six months.
• Want to explore the world? Lehigh offers over 200 study abroad programs in 50+ countries, so you can travel while you earn credits.
• The alumni network is strong, with successful connections across finance, tech, engineering, and more. It’s perfect for landing internships or job leads.
• Want to guarantee a solid application? A college admissions consultant can guide you through showcasing your strengths and standing out in the competitive process. Reach out to AdmissionSight today and maximize your chances of success with personalized, expert advice.