Best Colleges in Pennsylvania

Best Colleges in PA – Introduction

Pennsylvania is home to a wide variety of elite institutions. With over 35 colleges and universities across the state, Pennsylvania offers a breadth of educational opportunities. The best colleges in Pennsylvania range from small liberal arts colleges to large research universities. In this article, we will explore the best colleges in PA and provide an overview of their college rankings, programs, and campus life.

There are several reasons why students might want to attend college in Pennsylvania. Firstly, some of the best colleges in Pennsylvania are also the best in the country. This makes the state a popular choice for students seeking a quality education. Additionally, Pennsylvania is known for its affordability, with many schools offering generous financial aid packages to help offset the cost of tuition. Furthermore, Pennsylvania’s many cities and natural landscapes provide a rich experience for students seeking to expand their horizons in diverse college settings.

In this article, we will cover a range of topics related to the best colleges in Pennsylvania. First, we’ll discuss how many colleges in Pennsylvania there are. We’ll also provide a colleges in Pennsylvania map of their locations. Then, we’ll explore colleges in Philadelphia and discuss the state’s top-ranking schools, including the best state colleges in Pennsylvania. Additionally, we will provide an overview of the best colleges in PA for nursing students. 

By the end of this article, readers should have a comprehensive understanding of the best colleges in Pennsylvania and what they have to offer.

How many colleges and universities are in Pennsylvania?

You may be wondering, just how many colleges are in Pennsylvania? 

Pennsylvania is home to a thriving higher education system, with over 300 institutes of higher education across the state. These vary in college size and college location, providing a diverse range of options. There are two main types of colleges in Pennsylvania: public universities and private colleges. Public universities are funded by the state and typically offer lower tuition rates than private colleges. 

Public universities in Pennsylvania

There are 14 public schools that make up the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. These schools are spread throughout the state, with campuses in both urban and rural areas. Some campuses include West Chester University, Bloomsburg University, and Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

Each campus within the State System has its own unique culture and programs. For example, West Chester University, located in southeastern Pennsylvania, offers over 118 undergraduate programs across its five colleges. By contrast, Bloomsburg University, located in the northeastern part of the state, is known for its strong business and education programs. Additionally, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, located in the western part of the state, offers programs in fields such as criminology, nursing, and environmental studies.

Private colleges in Pennsylvania

In addition to public universities, Pennsylvania is also home to a wide range of private colleges, including liberal arts colleges and research universities. These institutions are often more specialized in their academic programs and offer a more personalized learning experience. 

Some of the private best colleges in Pennsylvania include the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University, and Villanova University. Within the state, the UPenn ranking is #1,  the Carnegie Mellon ranking is #2, and the Lehigh University ranking and Villanova University ranking are tied at #3. 

Liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is also home to a variety of top liberal arts colleges, which offer a broad-based education that emphasizes critical thinking and analysis. Swarthmore College and Haverford College, both located in suburban Philadelphia, are two of the best colleges in PA in this category. Among national liberal arts colleges, the Swarthmore College ranking is 4th and the Haverford College ranking is 18th.

In Lewisburg, PA, Bucknell University is another competitive liberal arts college in Pennsylvania. The Bucknell ranking is #37 among national liberal arts colleges. Albright College in Reading, PA is another notable liberal arts college in the state.

Finally, research colleges in Pennsylvania are known for their cutting-edge research programs and facilities. The University of Pittsburgh, for example, is a leading research institution that is home to several research centers and institutes. The university’s research programs cover a wide range of fields. These include medicine, engineering, and environmental studies.

In summary, colleges in Pennsylvania offer a wealth of educational resources and experiences. Given how many colleges are in Pennsylvania, students have access to a diverse range of programs, campuses, and learning environments. 

Whether you are interested in attending a public college in Pennsylvania, a private college in Pennsylvania, a liberal arts college in Pennsylvania, or a research college in Pennsylvania, you can enjoy a wide selection of the best types of these colleges in Pennsylvania.

Colleges in Pennsylvania Map

When it comes to choosing the best colleges in PA, both college location and college setting can play a significant role. Fortunately, there is a diverse range of colleges in Pennsylvania. 

To answer the question “how many colleges are in Pennsylvania,” look at our colleges in Pennsylvania map. This can help you better understand the location of the best colleges in Pennsylvania. 

To give you a better idea of the college setting for the colleges in Pennsylvania, we have included a graphic with many of the best colleges in PA. Take a look at our colleges in Pennsylvania map to learn more about the best colleges in Pennsylvania and where they are located.

As you can see from the map, there is a high concentration of the best colleges in PA around Philadelphia. These include the University of Pennsylvania, the Tri-Colleges (Swarthmore, Haverford, Bryn Mawr), and Drexel University. 

Meanwhile, Pittsburgh is home to Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh, and Duquesne University—some of the other best colleges in Pennsylvania. However, you’ll also find great colleges throughout the state, including in more rural areas. 

As you can see, the best colleges in Pennsylvania are located all over the state. Our colleges in Pennsylvania map offers an overview of the distribution of some of the best colleges in Pennsylvania. However, location isn’t everything—it’s also important to consider other factors in your college search. These include academic programs, campus culture, and extracurricular opportunities. 

Colleges in Philadelphia

As we highlighted, there are plenty of top colleges in Philadelphia—including some of the very best colleges in Pennsylvania. 

Colleges in Philadelphia make up about 40 of the best colleges in PA, with even more options available in the surrounding suburbs. If you want to attend one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania, you should consider colleges in Philadelphia. Next, let’s take a closer look at some of these top-ranked schools.

The University of Pennsylvania, or Penn, is one of the best colleges in Philadelphia—and an Ivy League school. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. 

Swarthmore College is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social justice. This top liberal arts college is another one of the best colleges in PA. Check out our guide on crafting a competitive application to Swarthmore. 

Villanova University is a Catholic research university located in the Main Line suburbs. This school emphasizes a strong sense of community and a commitment to service. 

Finally, Drexel University is a private research institution with strong programs in various disciplines. Drexel is particularly well-known for its co-op program, which allows students to gain valuable work experience as part of their education. This makes Drexel one of the top colleges in Philadelphia. 

What is the #1 college in PA?

We’ve discussed the best colleges in Pennsylvania. However, what is the single best college in PA? 

According to U.S. News and World Report, UPenn is the best college in Pennsylvania. The UPenn ranking is #7 nationally. As a member of the prestigious Ivy League, UPenn is known for its rigorous academic programs and esteemed faculty. Located in Philadelphia, UPenn has an acceptance rate of around 8%.

UPenn is home to many notable programs, including the Wharton School of Business, which consistently ranks as one of the top business schools in the country. The university is also known for its strong programs in law, medicine, engineering, and nursing. 

With a campus situated in the heart of Philadelphia, UPenn students have access to the city’s vibrant cultural scene and numerous internship opportunities. This places the school high on the list of best colleges in PA. This guide explains more on crafting an application to UPenn. 

How many colleges are in Pennsylvania?

In total, Pennsylvania is home to more than 300 institutions of higher education. Around 40 of these schools label themselves as colleges with a focus on liberal arts and undergraduate education. 

Overall, there are dozens of prestigious institutions located throughout the state. These schools offer a wide range of programs and opportunities.

Some of the best colleges in Pennsylvania are liberal arts colleges. For example, Swarthmore College, located near Philadelphia, is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to social responsibility. 

You might also be interested in Haverford College, another private liberal arts college located just outside of Philadelphia. Haverford is highly regarded for its strong academic programs and close-knit community. These liberal arts colleges are some of the best colleges in Pennsylvania. 

Pennsylvania State System of High Education

Beyond these private institutions, Pennsylvania also has a robust public higher education system known as the State System of Higher Education. This system comprises 14 public colleges and universities located throughout the state. Each school in the State System has its own unique strengths and offerings. 

Some of the best colleges in Pennsylvania include notable institutions within the State System such as Pennsylvania State University, with its flagship campus in University Park. Other schools in the State System include West Chester University, Kutztown University, and Slippery Rock University.

With such a wide range of educational opportunities, students in Pennsylvania have access to leading programs and resources that can prepare them for success in a variety of fields.

What are the 14 Pennsylvania State colleges?

Pennsylvania has a robust public university system known as the State System of Higher Education. The State System comprises 14 institutions. These public colleges within the State System offer a range of undergraduate and graduate programs at a more affordable cost compared to private institutions. 

14 Pennsylvania State System Colleges 

Choosing a public college in Pennsylvania

In general, public colleges in Pennsylvania are cheaper than their private counterparts. 

Since public colleges in Pennsylvania are funded by the state government, they typically receive a significant portion of their funding from tax dollars. This allows them to offer lower tuition rates, particularly for in-state students. In addition, public colleges in Pennsylvania are often larger than private colleges and universities. As such, they can offer a wider range of programs and opportunities.

It’s important to note that public universities and private colleges differ in a number of ways. Private colleges in Pennsylvania rely on tuition and private donations to fund their programs. They also often have smaller class sizes. Public colleges in Pennsylvania, by contrast, typically have larger classes but may offer more resources and services. Additionally, attending a public college in Pennsylvania may also offer some unique advantages. These include access to state-funded research opportunities and community outreach programs.

Other opportunities to consider

There are a number of reasons why one may want to attend state colleges in Pennsylvania. In addition to the lower tuition rates, many state colleges in Pennsylvania also offer scholarship opportunities to in-state students. These scholarships can make attending college more accessible to students who may not have the means to attend a private institution. 

Additionally, attending a state school can also provide students with a sense of community and belonging within the state. Students who attend a state school may feel more connected to their home state. They will also have many opportunities to network with alumni within their field.

Overall, the 14 state colleges in Pennsylvania offer a range of educational opportunities and benefits. Whether you’re interested in a specific program of study or are looking for an affordable and accessible college experience, public colleges in Pennsylvania are worth considering.

What about Penn State?

You might wonder why Penn State did not appear on this list of the state colleges in Pennsylvania. In fact, Penn State is NOT part of the State System of Higher Education. Instead, it is a public land-grant university. 

Although it is not part of the state system, Penn State offers many of the same benefits as state schools. These include lower in-state tuition rates and access to scholarships. Penn State also has a strong reputation for being one of the best colleges in PA. The school offers a variety of majors, including world-renowned engineering and business programs.

What is the Best PA State School?

According to U.S. News, the University of Pittsburgh is the best PA State school. On their list of the best colleges in PA, the University of Pittsburgh ranking is #5—the highest ranking of all public colleges in Pennsylvania. Additionally, the University of Pittsburgh ranking nationally is #59. 

UPitt has an acceptance rate of 57%, and is located in the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is known for its strong programs in medicine, engineering, and business. If college size is a concern, note that Penn State is quite large. The university has a total enrollment of over 28,000 students, with nearly 19,000 undergraduates and over 9,000 graduate and professional students.

Although UPitt is the top-ranked for public best colleges in PA, Penn State is also highly regarded. As such, this school could be considered one of the best colleges in PA as well, in terms of public schools. 

Don’t forget Penn State University

Penn State is a public, land-grant university and is not part of the State System of Higher Education. This school is universally recognized as one of the best colleges in PA—and in the country. Penn State is located in State College, Pennsylvania, and has a total enrollment of over 97,000 students across its multiple campuses.

Penn State is known for its top-ranked programs in business, engineering, and communications. It also has a renowned football program and a thriving student life scene. Additionally, Penn State has a large and active alumni network. This can be a valuable resource for graduates seeking job opportunities. So, it is no surprise that Penn State is often regarded as one of the best colleges in PA.

One reason why UPitt and Penn State are considered some of the best colleges in PA is because of their relatively low tuition for in-state residents. This makes them a popular choice for Pennsylvania students looking for quality education at an affordable cost. Additionally, Penn State can be a great choice for first-gen students. 

Overall, UPitt and Penn State are two of the best colleges in PA, with UPitt ranked the highest among public universities in the state. Both universities offer strong academic programs and a wide range of opportunities for students. 

What city is Penn State in?

Penn State’s flagship campus, University Park, is located in a small region in central Pennsylvania known as Happy Valley. However, Penn State actually has 20 undergraduate campuses spread throughout the state. 

In this section, we will explore the main Penn State campus and what makes it unique. Refer to our previous colleges in Pennsylvania map if you are still confused about where each campus is located. 

University Park is a small city with a population of around 13,000 residents. The area is known for its beautiful scenery, which includes rolling hills and lush green forests. The city of University Park has been consistently ranked as one of the best college towns in the United States. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, student-centered culture, and a plethora of opportunities.

Exploring University Park

One of the most unique features of University Park is the Berkey Creamery, which is the largest university creamery in the United States. The creamery has produced delicious ice cream since 1865 and is open to the public. Visitors can indulge in a variety of flavors ranging from classic vanilla and chocolate to more exotic options like Peachy Paterno and Keystone Crunch.

In addition to the Berkey Creamery, University Park is also home to a beautiful arboretum. The Penn State Arboretum spans across 370 acres and includes numerous botanical gardens, greenhouses, and scenic walkways. In the arboretum, students can escape the hustle and bustle of campus life and connect with nature.

Academics at Penn State

As the flagship campus of Penn State, University Park offers a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities. In terms of college size, the campus is home to over 45,000 students. This makes Penn State one of the largest universities in the United States. 

Additionally, the Penn State rankings are consistently high. Overall, the school is often regarded as one of the top public universities in the country.

In summary, University Park is a small college town that offers a unique and vibrant atmosphere. Its location in central Pennsylvania provides numerous opportunities for students to explore the great outdoors. Additionally, its world-renowned creamery and beautiful arboretum make it a must-visit destination. 

As the flagship campus of Penn State, University Park offers a plethora of academic programs and research opportunities. This makes Penn State – University Park an attractive destination for students seeking a top-notch education.

What are the best colleges in Pennsylvania?

As we’ve discussed, the best colleges in Pennsylvania come in all shapes and sizes. As you build your college list, you want to focus on finding the best colleges in PA for you. 

Rankings can help you jumpstart your college search. Below, we’ve provided a list of the fifteen best colleges in Pennsylvania. 

Top 15 Universities in Pennsylvania

Top Universities in Pennsylvania

1. University of Pennsylvania

Located in Philadelphia, PA, the University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League institution with an acceptance rate of 8% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 10,000 students. The university offers over 90 undergraduate majors, including programs in business, engineering, and the arts and sciences. Founded by Benjamin Franklin in 1740, one of the most well-known programs at UPenn is the Wharton School, which offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business and is consistently in the top rankings for business schools in the country. Additionally, the overall UPenn ranking is 7th nationally. Listen to our Admissions Experts speak about their experience at UPenn in these webinars.

2. Carnegie Mellon University

Located in Pittsburgh, PA, Carnegie Mellon University is a private research institution with an acceptance rate of 15% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 7,000 students. The university is known for its strong programs in computer science, engineering, and fine arts, and has produced several notable alumni including actor Ted Danson and Apple CEO Tim Cook. Carnegie Mellon is also home to the world-renowned Robotics Institute, which has been at the forefront of robotics research and development for over 40 years.

3. Lehigh University

Located in Bethlehem, PA, Lehigh University is a private research institution with an acceptance rate of 25% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 5,200 students. The university offers over 90 undergraduate majors, including programs in engineering, business, and the arts and sciences. Lehigh has a strong tradition in college football and is home to one of the oldest football programs in the country. Additionally, U.S. News and World Report places the Lehigh University Ranking as #51 nationally. 

4. Villanova University

Located in Villanova, PA, Villanova University is a private Catholic research institution with an acceptance rate of 28% and an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 7,000 students. The university is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and nursing. Villanova has produced several notable alumni including businessman and philanthropist Brian Roberts. Its men’s basketball team has won two NCAA championships in the past 5 years. U.S. News and World Report places the Villanova University Ranking as #51 nationally. 

5. University of Pittsburgh

Located in Pittsburgh, PA, the University of Pittsburgh is a public research institution with an acceptance rate of 59% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 19,000 students. The University of Pittsburgh rankings are consistently high, and the university offers over 80 undergraduate majors, including programs in engineering, business, and health sciences. 

6. Penn State University

Located in State College, PA, Penn State University is a public research institution with an acceptance rate of 57% and an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 40,000 students across its 24 campuses. The university offers over 160 undergraduate majors, including popular programs in business, engineering, and communications. One interesting fact about Penn State is that its football program has won four national championships and produced numerous NFL players over the years. According to the latest U.S. News college rankings, out of the “Best Colleges in PA,” the Penn State ranking is #5, and the Penn State ranking nationally is #77.

7. Drexel University

Located in Philadelphia, PA, Drexel University is a private research institution with an acceptance rate of 79% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 15,000 students. Drexel rankings earn much of its credit due to the university’s cooperative education program, which allows students to gain hands-on experience in their field of study through internships and co-op placements. As one of the largest and oldest co-op programs in the country, the Drexel ranking is competitive within Pennsylvania. 

8. Temple University

Located in Philadelphia, PA, Temple University is a public research institution with an acceptance rate of 66% and an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 28,000 students. The university offers over 130 undergraduate majors, including programs in business, education, and health professions. Temple’s campus is home to the world-renowned Temple University Hospital and School of Medicine. According to the latest U.S. News college rankings of the best colleges in PA, the Temple University ranking is #7. Additionally, the Temple University ranking nationally is #151.

9. Thomas Jefferson University

Located in Philadelphia, PA, Thomas Jefferson University is a private health sciences institution with an acceptance rate of 71% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 3,500 students. The university offers undergraduate programs in nursing, health sciences, and medical imaging, among others. One interesting fact about Thomas Jefferson is that it is one of the few universities in the country with a dedicated School of Population Health.

10. Duquesne University

Located in Pittsburgh, PA, Duquesne University is a private Catholic institution with an acceptance rate of 74% and an undergraduate enrollment of approximately 6,000 students. The university offers over 80 undergraduate majors, including programs in business, nursing, and music. Duquesne is home to the Tamburitzans, a folk music and dance ensemble that performs around the world.

11. Chatham University

Located in Pittsburgh, PA, Chatham University is a private institution with an acceptance rate of 53% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 1,800 students. The university offers undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities, with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental studies. Chatham is one of the first institutions in the country to offer a fully online Master’s program in sustainability.

12. Robert Morris University

In Moon Township, PA, Robert Morris University is a private institution with an acceptance rate of 81% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 4,000 students. The university offers over 80 undergraduate majors, including programs in business, engineering, and nursing. Robert Morris is home to the Pittsburgh Center for Sports Media and Marketing, which offers unique opportunities for students interested in the sports industry.

13. La Salle University

Located in Philadelphia, PA, La Salle University is a private Catholic institution with an acceptance rate of 80% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 4,500 students. The university offers over 40 undergraduate majors, including programs in business, education, and nursing.

14. Misericordia University

Located in Dallas, PA, Misericordia University is a private Catholic institution with an acceptance rate of 72% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 2,400 students. The university offers over 50 undergraduate majors, including programs in health sciences, business, and education. Misericordia has a nationally-recognized program in occupational therapy, which consistently ranks among the top programs in the country.

15. Widener University

Located in Chester, PA, Widener University is a private institution with an acceptance rate of 74% and an undergraduate enrollment of around 3,600 students. The university offers over 80 undergraduate majors, including programs in engineering, business, and nursing. Widener has a dedicated School of Hospitality Management, which offers programs in hotel and restaurant management, tourism, and event planning.

More than just rankings

While these Pennsylvania college rankings and acceptance rates can seem daunting, they ultimately dictate very little of your application. So, don’t get fixated on college rankings. Instead, try to maximize your admissions odds with strong essays and an engaging profile. Creating a strategy for your application can help you feel more confident. If you are either an incoming or current high schooler, making sure you maintain a competitive GPA and strong standardized test scores can be another effective step to creating a strong application.

Top Ten Best Liberal Arts Colleges in PA

Next, let’s take a look at another group of the best colleges in Pennsylvania— that is, the best liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania. 

In total, there are 35 liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania. In this guide, we’ll focus on the top ten best liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania. However, take a look at the full list to learn about the rest of the liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania.

Top Ten Best Liberal Arts Colleges in PA

1. Swarthmore College

First on the list is Swarthmore College, located in Swarthmore. As one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania, Swarthmore is considered extremely selective, admitting about 9% of applicants. Swarthmore has approximately 1600 students. The Swarthmore College ranking is #4 among liberal arts colleges nationwide. The school has strong programs across nearly all majors, from STEM fields to the arts. 

2. Haverford College

Next on our list of the best liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania is Haverford College, located in Haverford, PA. Like Swarthmore, the Haverford college ranking is high—#18 among liberal arts colleges. Haverford admits just 16% of applicants. Additionally, Haverford College offers a diverse range of majors spanning from visual studies to computing to creative writing.

3. Bryn Mawr College

The third school on our list is Bryn Mawr College. Bryn Mawr is a women’s liberal arts college in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. As one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania, Bryn Mawr’s acceptance rate is approximately 33%. While the Haverford College ranking and Swarthmore College ranking exceed that of Bryn Mawr, the school is still universally lauded for its academic programs. Additionally, these three best colleges in Pennsylvania form the Tri-College Consortium, which allows students to cross-register for courses and explore intercollegiate opportunities. 

4. Bucknell University

Next on our list is Bucknell University, another one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania. Bucknell University is located in Lewisburg, and the Bucknell ranking is #37 among U.S. liberal arts colleges. Bucknell University has approximately 3,700 undergraduates. The Bucknell ranking is high because of its strong programs in accounting and finance, psychology, political science, and economics. 

5. Franklin & Marshall College

Next is Franklin & Marshall College, which is located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1787, Franklin & Marshall has a rich history. The college currently serves approximately 2,400 students and offers majors and minors across various fields of study. The college is considered more selective, with an acceptance rate of 38%. 

6. Lafayette College

About one hour north of Philadelphia in Easton, Pennsylvania, is Lafayette College. As one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania, Lafayette has a lot to offer. The Lafayette College student body is diverse, with students from 46 U.S. states and territories and nearly 60 countries. With an acceptance rate of 27%, Lafayette College is considered to be very selective. 

7. Dickinson College

Next is Dickinson College, another one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania. Located in Carlisle, PA, Dickinson has an enrollment of approximately 2500 students. The Dickinson College ranking is #51 among liberal arts colleges in the country. The school offers 42 majors, the most popular of which are international business, political science and government, and psychology.

8. Gettysburg College

Located in Gettysburg, PA, Gettysburg College is another one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania. If you attend Gettysburg college, you’ll be immersed in history—in fact, the campus is adjacent to the Gettysburg Battlefield. With a 45% acceptance rate, this school is also quite selective. In fact, 62% of admitted students were in the top 10% of their respective high schools in 2022. 

9. Allegheny College

Near the Ohio border in Meadville, Pennsylvania is Allegheny College. Allegheny encourages students to pursue a variety of interests through their “mind over major” approach. At Allegheny College, students declare a major and minor in two disparate fields as they explore their academic passions. The school’s acceptance rate is about 63%. 

10. Muhlenberg College

The final school on our list of best liberal arts colleges in Pennsylvania is Muhlenberg College. Muhlenberg College is located in Allentown, Pennsylvania. With an acceptance rate of 68%, Muhlenberg College is relatively selective. The school’s most popular majors are business management, marketing, visual and performing arts, and psychology.

What is the hardest college to get into in Pennsylvania?

The hardest college to get into in Pennsylvania is the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). With an acceptance rate of less than 6%, UPenn is one of the most selective colleges in the nation. 

UPenn isn’t just one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania—it’s one of the best colleges in the country. 

Located in Philadelphia, UPenn is a prestigious Ivy League school. It is one of the oldest universities in the country, with a longstanding reputation for academic excellence and research. As stated earlier in this article, UPenn is internationally renowned for its engineering, medicine, business, law, and social sciences programs. 

What is the largest university in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania State University is the largest university in Pennsylvania. In fact, Penn State is of the largest universities in the United States, with over 95,000 students across 24 campuses.

As discussed earlier, the Penn State ranking is high because of its strong academic programs, research opportunities, and active student life. The university offers more than 160 undergraduate majors, including programs in engineering, business, communications, education, and the sciences.

When creating your college list, college size could be a factor. While attending a large university can be overwhelming, these schools can offer students a range of benefits that may not be available at smaller institutions. 

Some reasons to attend a large university include campus life, social opportunities, academic resources, and faculty expertise. 

What is the cheapest college in PA?

Cost is an important factor when choosing a college. One of the best ways to avoid too much debt is to attend one of the least expensive colleges in Pennsylvania. 

Here’s our list of some of the cheapest colleges in Pennsylvania: 

Cheapest Colleges in PA

Mansfield University

In Mansfield, PA, you’ll find Mansfield University of Pennsylvania—a public university founded in 1857. Mansfield offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including education, business, music, social sciences, and more. As one of the most affordable colleges in Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania residents’ estimated attendance cost is around $24,000 per year. Out-of-state students can expect to pay around $35,000 per year. Mansfield is a moderately selective school, with an acceptance rate of around 67%. 

Shippensburg University

Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania is a public university located in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1871. The total cost for in-state students is around $25,000 per year. By contrast, out-of-state students can expect to pay around $36,000 per year. Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania is a moderately selective school with an acceptance rate of around 84%. Shippensburg University offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields, including business, education, social sciences, and more.

Edinboro University

Founded in 1857, Edinboro University is a public university located in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. The school offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields including art, business, education, nursing, science, and more. As one of the most affordable colleges in Pennsylvania, in-state students pay around $23,000 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $35,000 per year.

Mansfield University, Shippensburg University, and Edinboro University are all part of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). The universities within the system offer a wide range of degree programs at an affordable cost, making colleges in Pennsylvania accessible to students from all walks of life. They prioritize financial aid education and information for applicants, and their PASSHE Foundation provides scholarships for many students.

What is the most expensive college in Pennsylvania?

One of the most expensive colleges in Pennsylvania is Franklin & Marshall College. As one of the best colleges in PA, Franklin & Marshall College comes with a price tag of $65,844, making it the most expensive college in the state.

For the price, F&M offers a comprehensive liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. Students can work closely with faculty members who are experts in their fields and engage in hands-on research and experiential learning opportunities.

However, the cost of college isn’t as straightforward as comparing tuition numbers. The listed cost of attending a college or university—including tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses—is not always the amount students pay. Many students receive financial aid to help pay for their education. This can include grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans. 

Top Pennsylvania Colleges – By Major

Beyond considerations like college setting, you should think about whether each college on your list has the right programs for your intended major. College rankings can help you learn more about each school’s programs in various fields.

If you know what you’d like to major in, you may want to look at specific colleges in Pennsylvania that will offer you a great education in that field. In the following sections, we will explore the best colleges in PA for Nursing and Business according to US News. 

Best colleges in PA for nursing

Nursing is among the most in-demand professions in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, job growth for registered nurses will increase by about 9% from 2020 to 2030. This means that pursuing a career in nursing can be a smart career choice after high school. Below, we’ll discuss the best colleges in PA for nursing based on college rankings. 

Top 5 Business Schools in PA

Business is one of the most popular majors among undergraduate students. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 degrees awarded to students in 2018-2019 were business degrees. Business majors allow students to pursue various career paths, including finance, banking, marketing, sales, and management. 

Due to the popularity of the business degree, most colleges and universities offer a business major. Below, you will find information on the top business programs offered at colleges in Pennsylvania based on college rankings.

More colleges in Pennsylvania to explore

At this point, you may have forgotten how many colleges are in Pennsylvania. Well, there are almost 300 colleges in Pennsylvania. While we have already covered various schools for common manors, we would be remiss if we didn’t cover some of the best colleges in PA for more creative majors. 

Curtis Institute of Music

As one of the best colleges in PA for creatives, the Curtis Institute of Music is a prestigious conservatory of music. Curtis is one of the best colleges in Philadelphia—and the world—for music. Founded in 1924, the school is known for its rigorous and highly selective admissions process and for providing full-tuition scholarships to its students. Curtis offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in music, including orchestral and opera training, chamber music, composition, conducting, and piano. Curtis graduates are highly sought after by leading orchestras, opera companies, and chamber ensembles worldwide. 

Pennsylvania Art Schools

The Pennsylvania College of Art & Design (PCA&D) is another one of the best colleges in PA for creatives. PCA&D is a private art college in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA. Niche ranked PCA&D the #16 school for design in the nation. Founded in 1982, the school offers bachelor’s degree programs in fine art, graphic design, illustration, and photography. PCA&D graduates are well-prepared for careers in various creative industries, including advertising, publishing, entertainment, and fine arts.

Another one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania for creatives is The University of the Arts (UArts). UArts is a private art school and is another one of the colleges in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1876 and is one of the oldest art schools in the United States. UArts offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in visual and performing arts, including fine arts, design, theater, dance, music, and film. 

Choosing the best college in PA for you

Selecting a college is a highly personal decision. Whether you choose a school based on college rankings, college size, college location, or college setting, it is important to think critically about your needs. 

With so many colleges in Pennsylvania, students have plenty of options. You can get a glimpse by going back up to our colleges in Pennsylvania map. Overall, the best colleges in PA offer students a diverse academic experience with various programs, activities, and exploration opportunities. Furthermore, the best colleges in PA are known for their diverse student populations, access to big cities, and beautiful campuses. 

Best Colleges in PA – Final Thoughts

In this article, we provided a wealth of information on Pennsylvania’s best colleges and universities Earlier in this article, we covered the UPenn ranking, Albright ranking, and Drexel ranking. Later, we covered the Lehigh University ranking, Villanova University ranking, and Temple University ranking. We had the chance to look into Liberal Arts Colleges rankings and checked out the Swarthmore College ranking, Haverford College ranking, and Bucknell ranking. On a macro scale, we reviewed colleges in Pennsylvania, provided you with a colleges in Pennsylvania map, and discussed some colleges in Philadelphia. We also explored major-specific top colleges and colleges based on cost, college setting, college size, and college location. 

Best colleges in PA & your college list

At this point, you may be ready to take the next step and add some of the best colleges in PA to your college list. Check out some of our resources to help you with your college search, college list, and standardized tests. 

Whether a college in Pennsylvania is your dream school or you are new to the admissions process, we’re here to help. We’ll guide you through your initial college search, college list creation, and college comparison, all the way through to dealing with college acceptances and enrollment. 

Want more personalized admissions guidance? Click here to schedule a free meeting with our team. Receiving an acceptance letter from your dream school is no easy task—and we’re here to support you.

This article was written by senior advisors Deepak Kejariwal and Ashley Hollins. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.