LEAP (the Learning Edge Academic Program) provides entering freshmen the chance to begin their journey at Penn State University Park by way of a learning community. LEAP students take two courses together in groups of 24 that are reserved exclusively for first-year students, live together in the same dormitory area, and have an upper class student mentor to guide them through their first semester. This exciting and comprehensive experience is offered only during the summer and only to first semester undergraduates admitted to University Park. (Students who are admitted to fall semester can change their admission to summer by contacting the Admissions Office if they'd like to be a part of LEAP.)

LEAP is a unique experience because it means:

• living together with other first-year students in a dormitory area reserved especially for you.
• taking two college courses that overlap assignments in creative collaborations.
• having an upper-class student mentor as a guide for your "Pride" of 24 first-year students.

Choosing LEAP also means:

• Special introductions and tours to help you unlock the mysteries of Penn State's vast library resources.
• Introductions to the latest of computer technologies, including the World Wide Web and Internet.
• Quality professors and instructors in each of the targeted content areas interested in helping you make the transition from high school to college life.
• Team approaches to problem solving and projects in class.
• The opportunity to learn your way around the big campus in the summer when things are less crowded.

This summer, LEAP will offer many different course option packages or Prides. A pride consists of two integrated courses, a group of students, their instructors, librarians, and mentors. Each pride allows students to complete one of Penn State's required communication or language courses and focus on another academic area of interest. The classes range from agriculture and business to engineering and philosophy. Each pride is designed to provide a different set of content specific experiences, but every LEAP student will be guaranteed the experiences listed above. The prides are limited to 24 students with a few exceptions where students might meet a few times a week in a larger group. Even then, the other of the two courses would still be limited to 24. Students who meet the admissions qualifications for summer and return their deposits to the Bursar's Office will be able to register for LEAP courses following the "Registration Instructions" included in these pages. Note that some programs are reserved for students who are in particular colleges or programs. See the "LEAP Prides" page for complete information. Those interested in the Engineering LEAP pride must have familiarity with calculus based on successful completion of the Penn State placement exam.

Watch for Registration to Begin: Because enrollment is limited, you should act as soon as possible in order to reserve a space in this exciting program. See the date this year's registration begins at Registration Instructions. For more information, contact the Penn State LEAP office at (814) 863-4174.

Mentoring Documents

2008 Brochure

Need More Information? No Problem!

Contact: LEAP Programs | Phone: 814-863-4174 | E-mail: LEAPS@psu.edu