Times Higher Education Ranks Penn State Among World’s Best Universities

Penn State University’s Top Ranking in Global Impact

Recent rankings by Times Higher Education place Penn State University among the top 3% of worldwide universities for their programs’ international impact. This information was released in a global gathering of higher education leaders.

Times Higher Education’s University Impact Rankings 2024

The University Impact Rankings for 2024 were announced by Times Higher Education (THE) during their Global Sustainable Development Congress in Bangkok, Thailand. The rankings included 1,963 universities and were determined based on the universities’ contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Penn State University secured a place within the top five domestically and near the top 50 internationally.

Ranking Criteria

The universities were ranked based on their research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. In these categories, Penn State University was ranked fourth in the United States and 51st globally.

Penn State University’s Commitment to Global Sustainability

“Penn State once again demonstrates its commitment to global impact and sustainability, underpinning its standing as a leading institution in this space,” said Sabine Klahr, interim vice provost for Penn State Global.

These high rankings are a product of Penn State’s extensive research, which spans a multitude of disciplines. The university is also known for its commitment to sustainability and for being a U.N. Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) member.

Penn State University’s Work with the U.N. SDSN

As part of the U.N. SDSN, Penn State focuses on developing new ways to implement SDGs. They also help to shape policies by providing research and expertise.

Sustainability Goals at Penn State University

Penn State has set a goal to lower greenhouse gas emissions by 2035. The university accomplishes this through local impact initiatives such as the Penn State Extension and facilities like The Arboretum at Penn State and Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, among others. 

Leadership in Sustainability at Penn State University

“Penn State is uniquely positioned to be a leader in the sustainability space. We have a wealth of resources in our world-class faculty, innovative approach to interdisciplinarity, and collaboration,” said Lara Fowler, director of Penn State Sustainability and the University’s chief sustainability officer.

Penn State is also committed to other SDGs, including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).