Facilities & Learning Spaces

As an engineering student at Penn State, you’ll have access to cutting-edge labs, high-tech classrooms, and hands-on makerspaces to bring your ideas to life. Whether you’re working on research, designing prototypes, or tackling group projects, there are tons of resources to support you. Collaborative spaces make it easy to team up with classmates, while interactive classrooms help you build the skills you need for real-world engineering challenges. It’s all about learning by doing and pushing the limits of what’s possible!

Featured Innovative Spaces

Learning Factory

The Learning Factory at Penn State is the ultimate hands-on workshop for engineering students. Packed with high-tech tools like CNC machines, 3D printers, and welding stations, you can design, build, and bring your ideas to life. Whether you're working on a capstone project, research, or your own creative innovations, this space gives you the freedom to make it happen. 

ME Knowledge Commons

The ME Knowledge Commons is the go-to spot for mechanical engineering students to team up, study, and get the resources they need. With group work areas, cutting-edge tools, and plenty of support, you can tackle projects, brainstorm ideas, and bring innovations to life.

Leonhard Knowledge Commons

The Leonhard Knowledge Commons is a go-to spot in the College of Engineering for studying, collaborating, and getting academic support. With modern study spaces, tech resources, and research help, it’s the perfect place to team up on projects, prep for exams, and stay ahead in your engineering journey.

Chemical Engineering Machine Shop

The Chemical Engineering Machine Shop is where students can bring their ideas to life with precision machining and fabrication tools. Whether you're working on research or class projects, expert technicians are there to help you create custom parts and experimental setups to support your engineering innovations.

Aramco High Bay Structural Testing Lab

This state-of-the-art lab is built for big ideas—literally! Designed for large-scale structural testing, it helps civil and architectural engineering students explore new materials, designs, and safety innovations. Whether you're studying how buildings withstand forces or testing new construction methods, this facility gives you the tools to make it happen.

MorningStar Solar Home 

The MorningStar Solar Home is a 100% self-sustaining, net-zero energy house designed and built by Penn State students. It’s a hands-on lab for sustainable design and renewable energy research, packed with cutting-edge green tech that’s shaping the future of eco-friendly living. 

Radiation Science and Engineering Center (RSEC) 

The RSEC at Penn State is a top-tier nuclear research and education facility, home to the Breazeale Nuclear Reactor. It’s a place where students and researchers dive into real-world applications of nuclear tech in energy, medicine, and materials science—gaining hands-on experience in a cutting-edge field. 

Learn more about our facilities transformation »