The New Kensington campus was founded in 1958 as a result of a study of the local need for higher education in the Alle-Kiski Valley.

Two years later the Science, Activities, and Administration buildings and the Library were completed and an additional 30 acres (120,000 m2) were purchased from a neighboring farmer.

Penn State New Kensington has 20 student organizations that are academic, social, and professional in nature.

Penn State–New Kensington teams participate as a member of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA).

The Nittany Lions are also a member of the Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC).