Best
Public Colleges in Pennsylvania in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Pennsylvania offers preparation for leadership and organizational roles across industries. Programs typically cover accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and data analysis, often with internships or team projects. Graduates may pursue jobs as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, or sales managers. Popular Pennsylvania colleges offering this degree include the University of Pennsylvania, Penn State, Temple University, Drexel University, and the University of Pittsburgh. Compare programs carefully.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Pennsylvania offers programs that explore human behavior, mental processes, and research methods. Typical courses include developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, statistics, and research design. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, or research assistant; clinical practice usually requires graduate training and licensure. Popular choices include the University of Pennsylvania, Penn State, Temple University, Drexel University, and the University of Pittsburgh. Internships can strengthen practical career experience.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Pennsylvania builds skills in programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Programs include mathematics, systems, and team-based projects. Graduates pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants, with opportunities across technology, healthcare, finance, and government. Pennsylvania colleges offering computer science degrees include the University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania State University, Drexel University, the University of Pittsburgh, and Temple University.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Pennsylvania offers preparation for supporting individuals and families in schools, clinics, and community agencies. Coursework typically includes counseling theories, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, ethics, group counseling, and supervised practicum experiences. Depending on specialization and licensure, graduates may work as school counselors, mental health counselors, career counselors, or substance use counselors. Programs are available at public and private institutions such as Penn State, the University of Pittsburgh, Temple University, and Villanova University.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Pennsylvania can prepare students for care in hospitals, clinics, schools, and settings. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and rotations in medical-surgical, pediatric, maternal, and mental health care. Graduates pursue registered nurse positions, though some programs lead to practical nursing roles or study. Pennsylvania colleges offering nursing education include the University of Pennsylvania, Penn State, Villanova University, Duquesne University, and the University of Pittsburgh.

Best Colleges in Pennsylvania Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $23,550, compared with $26,374 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of $2,824.
• An average of 98% of students receive financial aid, higher than the 88.69% average at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 88.69%. Schools receive an average of 8,594.82 applicants, compared with 10,891.4 at top 10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 1,293, and the median number of female applicants is 1,300.
• Average test scores are 1,105.54 on the SAT and 23.4 on the ACT.
• Schools enroll an average of 5,802.78 students. The average number of enrolled men is 510.67, compared with 581.62 women.
• The average graduation rate is 42.58%, while the average for top 10% schools is 71%. The median graduation rate is 37% for men and 43% for women.
• There are 34 institutions offering associate's degrees, 38 offering bachelor's degrees, 35 offering master's degrees, and 9 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 41 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside graduation rates, enrollment, degree offerings, and admissions selectivity. Consider how the SAT and ACT averages relate to your own preparation, and weigh the overall figures against the higher graduation rates and applicant totals reported for top 10% schools.

How much does studying at a college in Pennsylvania cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Pennsylvania is $21,854.12. Use this as a statewide benchmark, not a guaranteed bill: your actual degree costs depend on your college, program, living arrangements, and time to graduation. Pennsylvania offers choices ranging from large public universities to urban campuses, so you can compare options and find a fit for your goals and budget.

• Average total cost of studying: $21,854.12
• Average tuition and fees: $14,372.24
• Average room and board: $14,225.57
• Average books and supplies: $1,193.40

These are reported average figures for different cost categories; they do not necessarily add up to the reported total, so check each college's current cost estimate before planning. At Penn State, Temple University, or the University of Pittsburgh, compare tuition, housing, and other expenses for the specific campus and program you're considering. Living at home, applying for financial aid, and using campus resources may help make your education more affordable. With careful comparison, you can build a realistic budget and take an encouraging first step toward earning your degree in Pennsylvania.

How long does it take to finish college in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, earning a bachelor's degree usually takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree commonly takes about two. At Penn State, Temple University, or the University of Pittsburgh, the timeline depends on your major, course availability, and whether you attend full time. Part-time study, changing majors, or balancing work and family can extend it, and that's a normal path - not a failure.

The average graduation rate is 42.58%, suggesting fewer than half finish within the reported period. For the top 10% of schools, the average is 71%. Rates are 38.84% for men and 46.26% for women, showing outcomes vary.

You may be able to graduate faster by using AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program. Before enrolling, ask an adviser at your Pennsylvania college how credits apply to your specific degree plan. A schedule can make progress feel exciting and manageable.

Salary

After graduating from college in Pennsylvania, you can use a median alumni salary of about $56,963 as a general benchmark. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median is about $57,191. These figures are not guarantees: your earnings can vary with your major, occupation, experience, and location.

Pennsylvania offers many routes to a degree, from large public universities such as Penn State and the University of Pittsburgh to urban schools such as Temple University. Your choice of school matters, but your field of study and the career you pursue can also make a substantial difference to your income.

• Use the salary figures as a starting point when comparing programs, not as a promise of what you will earn.
• Look into career outcomes for your intended major and consider opportunities for internships or work experience while studying.
• Compare tuition and financial aid with likely career earnings to understand the overall value of a degree.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Pennsylvania?

The University of Pennsylvania is often considered Pennsylvania's most prestigious college. As an Ivy League university in Philadelphia, it has a strong national and international reputation, with especially prominent programs in business, medicine, law, and research. Prestige is not the only measure, though: Carnegie Mellon and other Pennsylvania colleges may be a better fit depending on your interests.

Which city in Pennsylvania has the best public schools?

There is no single city that can be named the best for public schools across every ranking: results depend on the measures used, and school quality can vary within a city. Pittsburgh is one large-city option to explore, while some highly regarded districts are in suburbs, such as Lower Merion. Check specific schools and district boundaries before deciding.

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

Temple University, located in Philadelphia, offers Pennsylvania students an urban setting and a broad university experience. It enrolls 29,204 students, with a 75% graduation rate and an 80% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $37,789, while median alumni salary is $48,858. For a prospective degree seeker, Temple's size may mean varied academic communities and campus opportunities, alongside access to a major city. Consider whether city life, cost, and its reported outcomes fit your priorities when comparing Pennsylvania colleges.

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus sits in Pittsburgh, giving Pennsylvania students a city-based option in the state's west. It enrolls 31,237 students and reports an 85% graduation rate with a 58% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $40,060; median alumni salary is $54,781. The campus is part of a large public university known for research and diverse academic programs. For degree planning, compare its stronger reported completion and salary figures with cost and admissions selectivity, while considering Pittsburgh's location and lifestyle.

Lincoln University offers a smaller Pennsylvania setting, enrolling 1,527 students. This historically Black university is located in Pennsylvania and can appeal to students seeking a more intimate campus community. Its graduation rate is 44% and acceptance rate is 66%. Total study cost is $14,852, the lowest listed among these five schools; median alumni salary is $38,077. Prospective degree seekers should weigh affordability and campus scale alongside completion outcomes, program availability, and distance from home within Pennsylvania when evaluating Lincoln.

University of Pittsburgh-Titusville is the smallest option in this comparison, with 56 enrolled students. Its reported graduation rate is 0%, acceptance rate 35%, total study cost $21,860, and median alumni salary $54,781. Located in Titusville in northwestern Pennsylvania, it offers a setting distinct from larger city campuses. Because the enrollment and completion figures are unusually small or low, verify campus operations, degree availability, and how these statistics were calculated before applying. Compare its listed cost with plans and alternatives.

Pennsylvania State University, commonly known as Penn State, offers a large public-university experience in Pennsylvania. Its listed enrollment is 49,481, graduation rate 86%, and acceptance rate 61%. Total study cost is $41,212, while median alumni salary is $57,191, the highest among the five schools. Based in State College, Penn State may suit students seeking a campus community and many academic choices. Compare these figures with your intended program, budget, and preferred campus setting before deciding where to pursue a degree.