Lehigh University is a private research university in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, known for its integrated approach to business and engineering education. Its strong programs in both fields, combined with a scenic mountain campus and collaborative culture, make it a distinctive choice for students interested in the intersection of technology and commerce.
Mascot: Mountain Hawk
Notable Alumni
Lee Iacocca (auto industry icon)•CJ McCollum (NBA player)•Jesse Reno (inventor of the escalator)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Lehigh's administration has been working to diversify the social scene beyond its historic Greek-and-beer reputation, but fraternities and athletics still play a significant role in the social landscape with about 21% going Greek. The hillside campus in Bethlehem, PA is beautiful but insular, and students not in Greek life or athletics can struggle to find their social footing.
Built dramatically into the wooded slopes of South Mountain overlooking Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, with a mix of Gothic Revival stone buildings and forested hillside paths. The steep, terraced campus with mountain views creates a uniquely scenic and rugged setting.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
No reported murders, robberies, weapons offenses, or arson from 2021-2023. The 26-officer accredited police department earned Premier Agency status in 2023.
Bethlehem's South Side neighborhood around campus is a revitalized area with restaurants and shops; overall a safe small-city environment.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Weekdays during the academic year; Lehigh Fest events in April
Duration: 60-75 minutes (student-guided walking tour)
The campus is built into the side of South Mountain — expect moderate hills and stairs. Wear comfortable shoes. Lehigh Fest (April) is a full-day program with college-specific sessions, research intros, and student life programming. Admitted students can visit anytime before May 1.
Book a TourA self-guided tour with audio transcript is available for independent exploration. The hilly campus has beautiful mountain views but requires stamina to navigate on foot.
Tour ResourcesOctober for peak fall foliage in the Lehigh Valley (the hillside campus is stunning in autumn), or April during Lehigh Fest events. Spring brings Musikfest preview events and campus is energetic. Avoid mid-December through January (winter break) and July-August. The hilly campus is harder to navigate in icy winter conditions.
Visitor parking at metered spaces or Zoellner Parking Garage on Packer Avenue and Filmore Street. Contact Parking Services at 610-758-PARK for day passes. Campus is in Bethlehem, PA — take Route 378 North off I-78. Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is 15 minutes away. Trans-Bridge Lines buses run to Newark Liberty (EWR) and JFK airports (~90-120 min). Philadelphia is 60 miles south (~75 min drive).
Location
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