Penn State Pulse is a survey initiative using Web and phone surveys designed to get a better understanding of students' opinions on a wide-ranging list of subjects. The program was initiated in the Spring of 1995 by the Division of Student Affairs to gather feedback on student issues, expectations, usage, and satisfaction. Pulse surveys are reviewed and approved by the Pennsylvania State University Office for Research Protections and require participant consent. As of May 2010, 158 Penn State Pulse surveys have been completed.
Random samples of students are either called by trained interviewers or receive an e-mail invitation to participate online. Some surveys include students from the Penn State Commonwealth campuses.
High participation rates, large respondent numbers, and verification that the demographics of respondents are consistent with the population suggest that the survey results are generally representative of the student body.
Individual responses are confidential. Results are reported in summary form and are available approximately one month after a survey is completed. Results are posted online and are shared with University administrators, staff, faculty, and students. Notice of new results is sent via the Student Affairs Research and Assessment Listserv. You may request to be added to this list by sending an e-mail to saraoffice@psu.edu.
- Pulse Survey: Community Integration
- Pulse Survey: Paul Robeson Cultural Center
- Pulse Survey: Community Integration
- Pulse Survey: Civic Engagement
Spring 2012 surveys
Fall 2011 surveys
Spring 2011 surveys
Pulse Survey Reports