Harrisburg, PA – Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is pleased to announce the signing of an agreement with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (COPA) to offer significant tuition discounts to state employees and their dependents. The agreement underscores HU’s commitment to making higher education more accessible and affordable for Pennsylvania residents, and its unwavering belief in learning as a lifelong pursuit.
Under this new agreement, eligible Commonwealth employees will receive the following discounts on Harrisburg University undergraduate degree programs, graduate degree programs, and certificates:
- For Commonwealth employees: A 25-percent discount off the full tuition rate for on-campus graduate degree programs.
- For dependents of Commonwealth employees: A 10-percent discount off the full tuition rate for on-campus graduate degree programs.
- For Commonwealth employees and their dependents: A 10-percent discount off the full tuition rate for online undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce financial barriers and support the academic and professional aspirations of learners across the state. Access and equity have been primary tenets of HU’s mission since its founding in 2001. This mirrors Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s efforts to boost higher education spending, thereby lowering costs and improving degree acquisition in the Commonwealth.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to provide this opportunity for Commonwealth employees,” said Harrisburg University President and CEO, Eric Darr, PhD. “STEM education is a powerful tool for personal development and societal growth, with both technical and soft skills that pay off throughout life and enrich our institutions. Think of where we’d be without the world of science to cultivate curiosity, collaboration, flexibility, problem-solving, communication, time management, and resilience.”
Dr. Darr continued: “This agreement with the Commonwealth ensures that more Pennsylvania residents can benefit from the teaching and learning on our campuses. Pennsylvania stands on the precipice of becoming a national leader in critical fields and emerging markets, including advanced manufacturing, advanced agriculture, healthcare, and many more. I couldn’t be happier that we’re helping to extend these opportunities to further enrich our region and its governing bodies.”
“The Shapiro Administration is proud to offer this first-ever tuition discount for both Commonwealth employees and their children, representing an investment in Pennsylvania’s present and future,” said Secretary of Administration Neil Weaver. “The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is one of the largest employers in the state, and there is a constant need for workers with the most current knowledge and skills to serve our fellow residents. This program offers a helping hand financially to current employees who want to advance their careers, as well as their children who will one day join the workforce. We appreciate the collaboration with Harrisburg University and other higher education institutions to offer these life-changing opportunities.”
The tuition discount program is available to Pennsylvania state employees who meet the eligibility criteria, including new and returning students. The discount applies to a range of HU’s undergraduate and graduate programs, allowing students to pursue their passions and career goals while reducing the cost of tuition.
“Harrisburg University’s ongoing commitment to professional development is evident through this agreement focused on educating Commonwealth of Pennsylvania employees with discounted tuition,” added Kelly Powell Logan, HU’s Vice President for Strategic Workforce Development and University Centers.
“For example, hundreds of Commonwealth employees have completed Harrisburg University’s Government Technology Institute IT Leaders Certificate Program, and the six academic credits earned there, combined with this discount, offer substantial savings and expedite degree completion in our graduate programming. This initiative empowers Commonwealth employees to swiftly achieve advanced degrees and accelerate their careers. HU’s strategic locations in the heart of Harrisburg’s Capitol Complex and the City of Philadelphia, along with its flexible online learning options, provide support and convenience for government employees balancing work and life with academic pursuits.”
In addition to this tuition discount, HU offers a variety of financial aid and support services to help students succeed academically and personally. For more information about HU’s undergraduate and graduate STEM degrees and professional certifications, visit HarrisburgU.edu or get in touch with the HU Admissions Office to learn about your personalized options.
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in the fields of science, technology, and mathematics. For additional information about the University’s affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
