Harrisburg University to close Philadelphia campus

• Harrisburg University will end all Philadelphia campus operations Aug. 31

• Students can complete their programs at the main Harrisburg campus

• University will maintain Philadelphia partnerships through dual enrollment and workforce programs

Harrisburg University will close its Philadelphia campus on Aug. 31, shifting programs and services to the main campus in Harrisburg for all students.

The decision was made by the Harrisburg University Board of Trustees following a review of institutional resources and evolving programmatic needs. As a result, the Philadelphia location will cease all instructional operations and student services at the end of August. 

“Over the past year, the university’s leadership has undertaken a thorough and data-informed review of our academic footprint,” Harrisburg University Chief Strategy Officer & Vice President of Partnerships & External Relations Ryan Riley said in an email. “As a result of that analysis—and after significant deliberation—we have made the difficult decision to conclude our undergraduate and graduate degree program operations at our Philadelphia location.”

Harrisburg University has informed its students that sufficient course sections will be available at the main campus to allow them to complete their program within their expected timeline. The Records and Registration Office will prioritize course availability for students transitioning to the Harrisburg campus.

Earned credits will be transferred to student records at the main Harrisburg campus and there is no special transfer process required for credits earned at a different campus of Harrisburg University. 

In addition, Harrisburg University informed students that they will not incur additional tuition or fee expenses solely due to this campus transition. Financial aid packages will be reviewed, and the Financial Aid Office will proactively contact all transitioning students to review their financial aid packages and explain how their aid will transfer to the main Harrisburg campus. 

“Importantly, this is not a withdrawal from Philadelphia—it is a reimagining of our engagement,” said Riley. “Harrisburg University will continue to invest in the city’s future through our College in the High School and Dual Enrollment initiatives, which remain the largest and most impactful components of our Philadelphia footprint. 

“We will also continue workforce-aligned, non-degree programming in partnership with local schools, organizations, and employers.”

Per the university, comprehensive student support services available at the main Harrisburg campus includes academic support, library services, career services, disability services, student life and activities, residential life, IT support, International Student Office, records and registration. 

Faculty members who taught at the Philadelphia location will be transitioning to teach at the main Harrisburg campus. 

“We are committed to supporting all affected students, faculty, and partners through this transition, and communications are already underway with each stakeholder group,” said Riley. “While we do not have financial projections to share at this time, this strategic move positions us to better serve learners where and how they need us most.”