Pennsylvania State University (Penn State or PSU) has achieved a significant milestone in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings, placing No. 3 in the United States and No. 64 globally. This recognition places Penn State in the top 3% of universities worldwide for progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With over 2,318 institutions ranked—a record number for THE—Penn State stands out as one of only four U.S. universities in the global top 100.
🔬 Excellence in Research, Outreach and Education
The rankings assess universities across four key areas:
- Research
- Stewardship
- Outreach
- Teaching
As Pennsylvania’s land-, space-, sea-, and sun-grant university, Penn State leverages interdisciplinary research and community outreach to address complex global challenges.
🌍 Top Rankings in Key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Penn State earned high marks in several SDG categories:
SDG 2: Zero Hunger
- 🥇 No. 1 in the U.S.
- 🌐 No. 15 in the world
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- 🇺🇸 No. 2 in the U.S.
- 🌍 Tied No. 15 globally
SDG 14: Life Below Water
- 🇺🇸 No. 2
- 🌍 No. 19
SDG 15: Life on Land
- 🇺🇸 No. 2
- 🌍 Tied No. 21
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
- 🇺🇸 No. 5
- 🌍 Top 300
🌱 Local and Global Impact Through Education and Engagement
Penn State’s strong performance reflects its commitment to sustainability, community service, and global cooperation through programs such as:
- Penn State Extension
- Arboretum at Penn State
- Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm
- Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center
- Millbrook Marsh Nature Center
The University also plays a key role in the U.N. Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), promoting innovation and partnerships for global sustainability.
💬 Leadership Quote
“Our continued recognition in this increasingly competitive field reflects the University’s deep commitment to supporting efforts that align with the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals.”
— Sabine Klahr, Vice Provost for Penn State Global
📈 Why This Matters
With climate change, urban development, food security and biodiversity at the forefront of global concerns, Penn State’s leadership in SDG-related work shows its vital role in solving real-world problems through education, research and collaboration.