History
In 1859, some local citizens generated a proposal for the creation of a seminary in Clarion, the earliest recorded evidence of an institution of higher education for Clarion, according to Caldwell's Illustrated Historical Combination Atlas of Clarion County.
Education
Clarion University provides transformative, lifelong learning opportunities through innovative, nationally recognized programs delivered in inclusive, student-centered environments.
Research
Clarion University will be a leader in high-impact educational practices that benefit students, employers, and community partners.
Career
- The Center for Career and Professional Development is a centralized office serving all Clarion University students and alumni. Our mission is to inform and empower students and alumni by linking them with resources and opportunities so they can develop and achieve their career goals.
- We collaborate with academic departments, student organizations and other university offices to provide a learning environment where students can acquire the knowledge, skills, and experiences required to successfully transition to employment or graduate education.
- We create and maintain partnerships with employers and community agencies to develop internships and employment opportunities for students and alumni.
Student services
In addition to offering many vibrant academic opportunities, Clarion University provides a wide range of activities outside the classroom. After all, coming to Clarion isn't just about earning a degree; it's also about building a life.
Housing services
Living at Clarion is more than just a room and a meal plan. It's about being part of a community now, so you can have a bright future tomorrow. Clarion offers a variety of housing options so you build a life in a home you create for yourself.
Library services
Library resources and services will be available virtually while classes are online. Need help? Ask-a-Librarian! Interlibrary loan service is intermittent.
ICT services
The wireless network at Clarion University provides access to the Clarion network resources and the Internet for all faculty, staff, students and sponsored guests.
Wireless service is available in all residence, academic, and student life buildings on campus.
Cable TV service is provided to each residence hall room or suite. This service is included in your housing fee .
Medical services
The university also is invested in the overall wellness of its students with health services, counseling services and other health activities in Becht Hall.
Campus life
Suites on Main's proximity to Clarion's downtown community means restaurants, boutiques and banks are all within walking distance. In addition to being part of the community, Suites on Main boasts high-end amenities not normally found in residence halls ensuring that you'll be comfortable while you get a great education.
Clarion University – Venango is scenically situated on 65 acres of wooded hillside overlooking the Allegheny River in the city of Oil City. Oil City offers a congenial, small-town setting for students and boasts a variety of local restaurants, antique shops, bike trails, outdoor activities, cultural opportunities, and more.
Sports facilities
If you're looking for something more physical, don't forget the student recreation center near Gemmell Student Complex for exercise equipment, an indoor track, basketball courts and a rock climbing wall. Intramurals, club sports and outdoor recreation also are based at the rec center.
Student clubs
And it's not hard to discover your interests and talents with more than 135 student organizations on campus. These include academic, athletic, Greek, political, multicultural, service, and other special interest groups.
Accreditation
Clarion University has been continuously accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education since 1948. As a regionally accredited institution, students, families and employers are assured of the quality and rigor of the educational experience provided by Clarion University.