Best
Value Colleges in Scranton in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Scranton, PA, combines core business knowledge with practical skills in management, accounting, marketing, finance, economics, business law, and data analysis. Students may explore entrepreneurship and organizational behavior through projects and internships. Popular local options include the University of Scranton, Marywood University, and Lackawanna College, which offer business-related programs at different degree levels. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, or business analyst positions.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Scranton, PA, offers coursework in developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics. Students learn to assess behavior, interpret evidence, and understand mental health across the lifespan. The University of Scranton and Marywood University are local options offering psychology study. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, community support worker, or human resources assistant. Many continue to graduate school for counseling, clinical psychology, or research careers.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Scranton, Pennsylvania, offers practical preparation for technology careers through coursework in programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students often complete projects that strengthen problem-solving and teamwork skills. In Scranton, popular options include the University of Scranton and Marywood University, both offering computer science study. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developer, systems analyst, web developer, database administrator, cybersecurity analyst, or entry-level IT support specialist.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Scranton can prepare you to support individuals, families, and communities through challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, group counseling, and practicum or internship experience, crisis intervention, and cultural competence. Options include Marywood University, which offers counseling programs, and The University of Scranton, with counseling-related study. Graduates pursue work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, case managers, or community-service professionals, depending on degree level and licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Scranton, Pennsylvania, combines classroom learning with clinical practice in healthcare settings. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and community health. Students build assessment, communication, and patient-care skills through labs and placements. Scranton options include the University of Scranton, Marywood University, and Lackawanna College. Graduates may work as registered nurses, staff nurses, care coordinators, or community health nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, and public-health organizations.

Best Colleges in Scranton, PA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 18,175.0, compared with 46,349.0 at schools in the top 10%, making affordability an important point of comparison.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid overall, compared with 85.0% at top-10% schools; prospective students should compare aid availability with each school's total cost.
• The average acceptance rate is 85.0%. Schools receive an average of 3,586.75 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 8,037.0 applicants. The median number of applicants is 1,027.5 men and 1,301.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,155.0 on the SAT and 24.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 2,047.6. Average enrollment is 199.0 men and 260.67 women.
• The average graduation rate is 68.8%, compared with 92.0% for top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 65.0% for men and 57.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, four offer bachelor's degrees, three offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• There are four coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside graduation outcomes, program offerings, admissions figures, test scores, and enrollment. Consider which factors best match your budget, academic goals, and preferences.

How much does studying at a college in Scranton, PA cost?

Based on the available averages, studying toward a degree in Scranton, PA costs about $25,138.83 in total. This is a typical overall study-cost figure, not a guaranteed bill for every student or the price of an entire multi-year degree. For planning, the reported average components are:

• Tuition and fees: $27,351.50
• Room and board: $13,010.50
• Books and supplies: $1,064.50

These category averages do not add up to the stated total, so treat them as separate reference points rather than one reconciled budget. If you are comparing local options, the University of Scranton, Marywood University, and Lackawanna College are familiar choices to explore. Your actual cost will depend on the school, program, housing, and financial aid. Ask each college for its current cost of attendance and aid estimate, then compare tuition alongside living expenses. With a budget, you can focus on finding a program and campus that feel right.

How long does it take to finish college in Scranton, PA?

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Salary

College graduates in Scranton, PA, can expect median alumni earnings of about $47,764 per year. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have median alumni earnings of about $71,644 per year, offering an encouraging picture of the potential return on a degree.

In Scranton, students can explore programs at institutions such as the University of Scranton, Marywood University, Lackawanna College, and Penn State Scranton. What you earn after graduation will depend on factors such as your field, experience, and employer, but studying locally can help you build connections in the area while preparing for a range of career opportunities.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Scranton?

Scranton has two institutions with "university" in their names: the University of Scranton and Marywood University. Lackawanna College is another local higher-education option, but it is a college rather than a university. For a student living in Scranton, that means there are several nearby choices to explore.

What is the largest university in Scranton?

The University of Scranton is generally the largest of the city's two universities by student enrollment. Enrollment figures can change from year to year, but it has more students than Marywood University. Its larger campus community may offer a lively student atmosphere while keeping you close to Scranton's downtown and local amenities.

How many universities are there in Scranton?

There are two universities in Scranton: the University of Scranton and Marywood University. The total depends on what you count - Lackawanna College also serves local students, but it is not a university. Comparing all three institutions can help you find the kind of campus and academic setting that feels right for you.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Scranton, PA Ranking in 2026-2027

The University of Scranton offers a private-university option in Scranton, Pennsylvania, making it possible to pursue a degree while staying connected to the city. It enrolls 4,619 students, with an 80% graduation rate and an 81% acceptance rate. Reported total study cost is $53,208, while median alumni salary is $50,174. For a prospective local student, weigh that higher cost against the graduation and earnings figures, and consider whether studying close to home fits your academic goals, budget, and preferred campus environment.

Johnson College is a compact college in Scranton, Pennsylvania, with an enrollment of 678 students, which may appeal if you prefer a smaller learning community close to home. Its graduation rate is 55%, and its acceptance rate is 98%. Total study cost is $18,900, while median alumni salary is $40,789. Compare these figures with your intended program and local options; the relatively low cost may matter, but outcomes, course availability, and hands-on education you want should guide your decision.

Marywood University gives Scranton-area students another university option within the city, with 2,693 enrolled students and a reported graduation rate of 72%. Its acceptance rate is 61%, total study cost is $39,490, and median alumni salary is $47,764. These figures can help you compare access, completion, and potential earnings as you plan to study in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Review the programs that match your interests and consider whether the campus setting, total expenses, and local convenience suit your priorities before applying.

Yeshivath Beth Moshe is a small Scranton, Pennsylvania, institution, enrolling 37 students; its name identifies it as a yeshiva, offering a religious-study setting. The reported graduation and acceptance rates are both 100%, and total study cost is $10,400. Median alumni salary data are unavailable, so earnings comparisons are limited. If you are considering a degree close to home, ask about the curriculum, credentials, student experience, and how its religious focus aligns with your plans before comparing it with local colleges.

Lackawanna College is a Scranton-based college option for students seeking to remain in the area while earning a degree. It enrolls 2,211 students, and its reported graduation rate is 37%; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. Total study cost is $17,450, with a median alumni salary of $38,985. For a prospective student in Scranton, Pennsylvania, compare the cost and salary figure with your intended field, and ask about program outcomes and support for completing your studies when evaluating this local choice carefully.