Best
Private Colleges in Pennsylvania in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Pennsylvania offers preparation for managing organizations across industries. Programs cover accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business law, management, and data analysis, combining theory with internships or team projects. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or sales representative. Popular Pennsylvania choices include the University of Pennsylvania, Penn State, Temple University, Drexel University, and the University of Pittsburgh. Compare curricula, tuition, and opportunities before choosing.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Pennsylvania offers typical coursework in developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics. Popular options include the University of Pennsylvania, Penn State, Temple University, the University of Pittsburgh, and Drexel University. Programs combine theory with research and practical experience. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as human services assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, market researcher, or human resources specialist. Clinical psychologist positions generally require graduate study, state licensure, and supervised professional experience.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Pennsylvania combines theory and hands-on problem-solving. Typical courses include programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build software, analyze data, and learn to design secure, efficient systems. Popular choices include the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania State University, the University of Pittsburgh, and Drexel University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or computer systems engineers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Pennsylvania can prepare you to support people across schools, clinics, and community agencies. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Depending on the degree and licensure, graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, career counselors, or substance-use counselors. Popular colleges include Penn State, Temple University, the University of Pittsburgh, West Chester University, and Duquesne University, all in Pennsylvania.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Pennsylvania offers pathways from associate and bachelor's degrees to advanced practice programs. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, ethics, and supervised clinical rotations in hospitals and community settings. Graduates may work as registered nurses, public health nurses, school nurses, or nurse managers; advanced degrees can prepare students for nurse practitioner roles. Popular Pennsylvania schools include the University of Pennsylvania, Penn State, Villanova University, Duquesne University, and Drexel University.

Best Colleges in Pennsylvania Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 37,135.0 overall, compared with 64,025.4 among schools in the top 10%.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid overall, compared with 69.08% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 69.08%. Schools receive an average of 5,490.55 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 10,282.2 applicants. The median applicant counts are 1,268.0 men and 1,587.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,201.27 on the SAT and 26.67 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 2,921.37; the average numbers enrolled are 213.56 men and 266.26 women.
• The average graduation rate is 65.83% overall and 87.2% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 63.0% for men and 70.0% for women.
• There are 56 institutions offering associate's degrees, 87 offering bachelor's degrees, 90 offering master's degrees, and 37 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 86 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, graduation rates, degree offerings, and school type. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant counts, but also higher average graduation rates; consider which factors best fit your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Pennsylvania cost?

The average total cost of studying in Pennsylvania is $37,191.14, a practical starting point as you plan for a degree. This figure is an overall study-cost estimate, not a guaranteed bill for every student or the full price of an entire degree; your total depends on the college, program length, housing, and financial aid.

Pennsylvania offers appealing options, including Penn State, Temple University, the University of Pittsburgh, and community colleges statewide. Compare schools for academic fit and manageable costs. Ask for each school's cost of attendance and net price after grants and scholarships, which can meaningfully reduce your bill. Also check whether estimates include tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, and transportation. Because costs vary by program and living arrangements, use this statewide average as a starting point and confirm expenses with college financial-aid offices before enrolling. A clear budget can help you choose confidently and focus on what comes next.

How long does it take to finish college in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Your actual timeline can vary with your major, course availability, work or family commitments, and whether you attend part time. At Penn State, Temple University, or the University of Pittsburgh, check the degree map for your campus and program: some majors require clinical placements, labs, or sequential courses that affect scheduling.

To finish sooner, consider AP or dual-enrollment credits, summer courses, approved transfer credits, or accelerated programs; verify that credits apply to your Pennsylvania degree. Completion figures offer context: the average graduation rate is 65.83%, compared with 87.2% among the top 10% of schools. Rates average 63.82% for men and 66.99% for women. Planning early, meeting an adviser, and registering for required classes promptly can help you stay on track. With support, earning your degree can feel manageable and exciting.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in Pennsylvania, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $47,076. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is about $71,278 - a promising sign that choosing a strong-fit school may lead to greater earning potential.

• Typical median alumni salary: $47,076
• Median for graduates of top 10% schools: about $71,278

Pennsylvania offers many well-known options, including Penn State, the University of Pittsburgh, Temple University, and Drexel University. Your own earnings can vary based on your field, experience, location, and the role you pursue, so consider how each school's programs align with your career goals. With a degree and a path that suits your strengths, you can build an encouraging start to your career right here in Pennsylvania.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Pennsylvania?

There's no objective winner, but Bryn Mawr College is a strong contender for its Collegiate Gothic buildings, leafy grounds, and peaceful campus atmosphere. If you're nearby, visiting can give you a feel for how its historic architecture and green spaces come together - a lovely setting for studying and spending time with friends.

What is the most selective college in Pennsylvania?

If you include specialized conservatories, the Curtis Institute of Music is often among Pennsylvania's most selective, with very small incoming classes and a demanding audition process. For a traditional university, the University of Pennsylvania is a leading contender. Selectivity changes by year, and a low admission rate doesn't necessarily mean a school is the best personal fit.

What is the richest university in Pennsylvania?

By endowment size, the University of Pennsylvania is the richest university in the state. Its endowment supports research, financial aid, faculty, and other university priorities; it isn't simply a pool of money available for general spending. For students, Penn's resources can mean extensive academic opportunities, though the endowment alone doesn't determine affordability.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Pennsylvania Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania offers a large, urban setting for students who want to study in Pennsylvania. With 24,183 enrolled students, it provides an extensive campus community and broad academic opportunities. Its 97% graduation rate and 5% acceptance rate indicate strong outcomes and highly selective admission. Total study cost is $60,920, while median alumni salary is $89,558. Penn may suit students seeking a prestigious university experience in the state's largest city and access to Philadelphia's cultural life.

Carnegie Mellon University, located in Pittsburgh, gives Pennsylvania-based students access to a major research university known for technology, arts, and interdisciplinary study. Its enrollment is 16,582, with a 94% graduation rate and 12% acceptance rate. Students should budget $64,596 for total study costs; median alumni salary is $88,761. The campus offers a focused academic environment in a lively city, appealing to learners who value demanding programs, collaborative projects, and opportunities to build careers while remaining in western Pennsylvania throughout college.

Lehigh University in Bethlehem offers a smaller university atmosphere in eastern Pennsylvania, with 7,909 enrolled students. Its 88% graduation rate suggests many students complete their degrees, while its 26% acceptance rate makes admission selective but less restrictive than some peers listed here. Total study cost is $63,930, and median alumni salary is $76,245. Students can enjoy a residential college setting near the Lehigh Valley's communities and outdoor spaces, while pursuing rigorous academics and connecting with employers across Pennsylvania and beyond.

Haverford College is a small liberal arts college in Haverford, a Philadelphia-area community in Pennsylvania. With 1,420 students, it offers an intimate campus environment where undergraduates may find close faculty interaction and a strong sense of community. Its graduation rate is 90%, acceptance rate is 12%, and total study cost is $69,884. Median alumni salary is $48,057. Students seeking a smaller college experience can benefit from its proximity to Philadelphia while studying in southeastern Pennsylvania and exploring liberal arts disciplines.

King's College in Wilkes-Barre offers students a private college setting in northeastern Pennsylvania, with a close-knit campus and a focus on learning. It enrolls 1,953 students, has a 60% graduation rate, and reports a 93% acceptance rate, giving applicants comparatively accessible admissions among these five schools. Total study cost is $42,000, the lowest listed, and median alumni salary is $48,112. Students considering Pennsylvania can weigh its smaller scale, affordability, and community-oriented experience while pursuing a degree near the Wyoming Valley.