Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024

Badge for BEST IN PENNSYLVANIA PRIVATE COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Private colleges, unlike large public institutions, can be a great option for students wanting a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Here is our list of the best private colleges in Pennsylvania.

10 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania

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  1. University of Pennsylvania
  2. Carnegie Mellon University
  3. Swarthmore College
  4. Lehigh University
  5. Drexel University
  6. Haverford College
  7. Villanova University
  8. Bryn Mawr College
  9. Duquesne University
  10. Thomas Jefferson University
  1. University of Pennsylvania
  2. Carnegie Mellon University
  3. Swarthmore College
  4. Bryn Mawr College
  5. Haverford College
  6. Lehigh University
  7. Drexel University
  8. Villanova University
  9. Thomas Jefferson University
  10. Duquesne University
  1. Chestnut Hill College 98%
  2. La Salle University 94%
  3. Robert Morris University 94%
  4. Saint Joseph's University 89%
  5. Thomas Jefferson University 89%
  6. Washington & Jefferson College 88%
  7. Widener University 88%
  8. Duquesne University 87%
  9. University of Scranton 84%
  10. Ursinus College 82%
  1. Eastern University 15 to 1
  2. Elizabethtown College 13 to 1
  3. Gannon University 13 to 1
  4. Grove City College 13 to 1
  5. Thomas Jefferson University 13 to 1
  6. Robert Morris University 13 to 1
  7. University of Scranton 12 to 1
  8. Duquesne University 12 to 1
  9. La Salle University 12 to 1
  10. Arcadia University 12 to 1
  1. Franklin & Marshall College $65,844
  2. Haverford College $63,628
  3. University of Pennsylvania $63,452
  4. Gettysburg College $61,760
  5. Bucknell University $61,746
  6. Villanova University $61,618
  7. Dickinson College $61,351
  8. Carnegie Mellon University $61,344
  9. Lehigh University $59,930
  10. Lafayette College $59,368
  1. Bryn Mawr College $50,730
  2. Carnegie Mellon University $47,629
  3. University of Pennsylvania $39,838
  4. Drexel University $36,234
  5. Elizabethtown College $35,020
  6. Arcadia University $27,457
  7. Lehigh University $27,000
  8. Bucknell University $26,960
  9. La Salle University $26,400
  10. Widener University $25,850
  1. Robert Morris University
  2. Arcadia University
  3. Allegheny College
  4. Muhlenberg College
  5. Chestnut Hill College
  6. Eastern University
  7. Ursinus College
  8. Elizabethtown College
  9. Grove City College
  10. University of Scranton
  1. Gannon University
  2. Arcadia University
  3. Eastern University
  4. Robert Morris University
  5. Chestnut Hill College
  6. Elizabethtown College
  7. University of Scranton
  8. La Salle University
  9. Muhlenberg College
  10. Franklin & Marshall College
  1. Swarthmore College 7%
  2. University of Pennsylvania 7%
  3. Carnegie Mellon University 11%
  4. Haverford College 14%
  5. Villanova University 23%
  6. Bryn Mawr College 31%
  7. Bucknell University 33%
  8. Lafayette College 34%
  9. Dickinson College 35%
  10. Franklin & Marshall College 36%
  1. Carnegie Mellon University 5 to 1
  2. Swarthmore College 8 to 1
  3. University of Pennsylvania 8 to 1
  4. Bryn Mawr College 8 to 1
  5. Haverford College 8 to 1
  6. Muhlenberg College 8 to 1
  7. Allegheny College 8 to 1
  8. Bucknell University 9 to 1
  9. Drexel University 9 to 1
  10. Dickinson College 9 to 1
  1. Grove City College $19,990
  2. Robert Morris University $33,767
  3. La Salle University $33,890
  4. Elizabethtown College $35,670
  5. Eastern University $36,464
  6. Gannon University $36,706
  7. Chestnut Hill College $39,410
  8. Thomas Jefferson University $44,350
  9. Duquesne University $45,376
  10. Arcadia University $47,130
  1. Gettysburg College $2,250
  2. Dickinson College $3,750
  3. Grove City College $8,550
  4. University of Scranton $11,580
  5. Eastern University $14,058
  6. Chestnut Hill College $17,040
  7. Saint Joseph's University $18,504
  8. Muhlenberg College $19,200
  9. Gannon University $20,610
  10. Villanova University $21,207

Colleges and Universities in Pennsylvania

Prospective students hoping to earn an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree have over 100 higher learning institutions to choose from. The largest public university is Pennsylvania State University, or Penn State, with a tuition of $18,000, and a student population of over 95,000 across its campuses. As a private institution, the University of Pennsylvania, or simply Penn, is known for its medical, nursing, social work, and business fields. Tuition is $56,000, and the school boasts a 95% graduation rate.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

Students can also attend one of the more than 60 religiously affiliated schools, such as Villanova University or Lafayette College, each with a tuition of about $53,000. Some of the most affordable colleges in the state include the Curtis Institute of Music and the Talmudical Yeshiva of Philadelphia, with tuitions set at $3,000 and $9,000, respectively. Though the average tuition for college in Pennsylvania comes in above the national average, those who practice medicine in underserved areas may qualify for up to $100,000 in loan forgiveness through the Pennsylvania Primary Care Loan Repayment Program.

As the nation’s second state, Pennsylvania’s history runs deep. It’s here where Betsy Ross made the first American flag and where the Declaration of Independence was signed. The Keystone State is also home to some culinary delights, including whoopie pies, soft pretzels, and the famous Philly cheesesteak. Students looking to earn their degree in Pennsylvania will undoubtedly enjoy what the state has to offer.

Check out the state’s top programs and learn more about earning your degree in Pennsylvania.


What are Pennsylvania’s Colleges & Universities?

Pennsylvania’s Best Overall

What is the difference between public and private colleges?

Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.

Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.

Pennsylvania's Best Private Colleges and Universities Badge
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This list is composed entirely of private colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 76 private universities in Pennsylvania. To be included in the list below of the 30 best private universities in Pennsylvania, schools must be fully accredited, private, non-profit institution, and must offer a broad range of bachelor’s degrees.

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Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2023

  1. #1

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia , PA
    #5 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #10 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #10 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1535/34

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Pennsylvania

    Cost of Degree: $63,452
    Expenses: $22,286
    Starting Salary: $131,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Pennsylvania known for?

    University of Pennsylvania’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    Carnegie Mellon University

    Pittsburgh , PA
    #9 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #9 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #10 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #12 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    92%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1530/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Carnegie Mellon University

    Cost of Degree: $60,854
    Expenses: $18,886
    Starting Salary: $103,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Carnegie Mellon University known for?

    Carnegie Mellon University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  3. #3

    Swarthmore College

    Swarthmore , PA
    #1 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #15 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #1 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1500/33

    Career Outlook for degree at Swarthmore College

    Cost of Degree: $59,328
    Expenses: $20,686
    Starting Salary: $70,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Swarthmore College known for?

    Swarthmore College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Lehigh University

    Bethlehem , PA
    #5 Best Research Universities in Pennsylvania 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Pennsylvania 2024 #6 Best Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #13 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    37%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Lehigh University

    Cost of Degree: $59,930
    Expenses: $17,955
    Starting Salary: $94,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lehigh University known for?

    Lehigh University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  5. #5

    Drexel University

    Philadelphia , PA
    #11 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #6 Best Research Universities in Pennsylvania 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1330/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Drexel University

    Cost of Degree: $58,965
    Expenses: $20,180
    Starting Salary: $78,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Drexel University known for?

    Drexel University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Haverford College

    Haverford , PA
    #15 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #16 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #25 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #2 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $64K

    Acceptance

    14%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1485/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Haverford College

    Cost of Degree: $63,348
    Expenses: $21,120
    Starting Salary: $75,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Haverford College known for?

    Haverford College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  9. #8

    Bryn Mawr College

    Bryn Mawr , PA
    #17 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #20 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    31%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1387/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Bryn Mawr College

    Cost of Degree: $59,330
    Expenses: $20,050
    Starting Salary: $61,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Bryn Mawr College known for?

    Bryn Mawr College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  10. #9

    Duquesne University

    Pittsburgh , PA
    #6 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #10 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #2 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #8 Best Research Universities in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $45K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    78%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1245/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Duquesne University

    Cost of Degree: $45,376
    Expenses: $18,344
    Starting Salary: $68,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Duquesne University known for?

    Duquesne University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Duquesne University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Computer Systems Technology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  11. #10

    Thomas Jefferson University

    Philadelphia , PA
    #9 Best Research Universities in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Grad Schools in Pennsylvania 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania #1 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $44K

    Acceptance

    89%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Thomas Jefferson University

    Cost of Degree: $44,200
    Expenses: $21,469
    Starting Salary: $99,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Thomas Jefferson University known for?

    Thomas Jefferson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Thomas Jefferson University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 180
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    Degree Concentrations
    • Computer Forensics
    • Crime and Criminal Behavior
    • Criminal Justice Administration
    • Homeland Security and Emergency Management
    • Probation and Parole
    • Required Credits: 180
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Acquisition and Contract Management
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Finance
    • Health Services Administration
    • Human Resource Management
    • Hospitality and Tourism Management
    • Joe Gibbs Performance Management
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Project Management
    • Retail Management
    • Social Media Marketing
    • Required Credits: 180
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BAS in Management
    • Required Credits: 180
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  13. #11

    Dickinson College

    Carlisle , PA
    #4 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    35%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Dickinson College

    Cost of Degree: $61,326
    Expenses: $19,190
    Starting Salary: $64,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Dickinson College known for?

    Dickinson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  15. #13

    Lafayette College

    Easton , PA
    #3 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $59K

    Acceptance

    34%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1405/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Lafayette College

    Cost of Degree: $58,618
    Expenses: $19,486
    Starting Salary: $80,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lafayette College known for?

    Lafayette College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Washington & Jefferson College

    Washington , PA
    #7 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $50K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/23

    Career Outlook for degree at Washington & Jefferson College

    Cost of Degree: $50,192
    Expenses: $15,724
    Starting Salary: $60,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Washington & Jefferson College known for?

    Washington & Jefferson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  17. #15

    Franklin & Marshall College

    Lancaster , PA
    #8 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $66K

    Acceptance

    36%

    Graduation

    86%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1375/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Franklin & Marshall College

    Cost of Degree: $65,844
    Expenses: $17,510
    Starting Salary: $69,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Franklin & Marshall College known for?

    Franklin & Marshall College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  19. #16

    Gettysburg College

    Gettysburg , PA
    #9 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    56%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    3K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Gettysburg College

    Cost of Degree: $61,760
    Expenses: $17,140
    Starting Salary: $66,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Gettysburg College known for?

    Gettysburg College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  20. #17

    Gannon University

    Erie , PA
    #4 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Pennsylvania 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Gannon University

    Cost of Degree: $36,706
    Expenses: $19,398
    Starting Salary: $55,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Gannon University known for?

    Gannon University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  21. #18

    La Salle University

    Philadelphia , PA
    #5 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at La Salle University

    Cost of Degree: $33,890
    Expenses: $16,550
    Starting Salary: $61,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is La Salle University known for?

    La Salle University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  22. #19

    Widener University

    Chester , PA

    Tuition + fees

    $52K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1197/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Widener University

    Cost of Degree: $51,639
    Expenses: $18,314
    Starting Salary: $59,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Widener University known for?

    Widener University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  25. #21

    University of Scranton

    Scranton , PA
    #7 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Finance Degree Programs 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $50K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    80%

    Student body

    5K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/28

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Scranton

    Cost of Degree: $50,312
    Expenses: $19,662
    Starting Salary: $62,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Scranton known for?

    University of Scranton’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  27. #23

    Elizabethtown College

    Elizabethtown , PA

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    81%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/27

    Career Outlook for degree at Elizabethtown College

    Cost of Degree: $35,700
    Expenses: $14,792
    Starting Salary: $55,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Elizabethtown College known for?

    Elizabethtown College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  28. #24

    Ursinus College

    Collegeville , PA

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1280/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Ursinus College

    Cost of Degree: $58,016
    Expenses: $17,946
    Starting Salary: $61,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Ursinus College known for?

    Ursinus College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  29. #25

    Eastern University

    Saint Davids , PA
    #22 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #9 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #12 Top 16 Most Affordable Online Counseling PhDs (Doctorates) #16 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Counseling Degree Programs 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at Eastern University

    Cost of Degree: $36,464
    Expenses: $18,068
    Starting Salary: $48,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Eastern University known for?

    Eastern University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  31. #26

    Chestnut Hill College

    Philadelphia , PA
    #10 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #12 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Chestnut Hill College

    Cost of Degree: $39,410
    Expenses: $18,474
    Starting Salary: $46,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Chestnut Hill College known for?

    Chestnut Hill College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  32. #27

    Muhlenberg College

    Allentown , PA
    #13 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1300/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Muhlenberg College

    Cost of Degree: $58,005
    Expenses: $16,690
    Starting Salary: $65,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Muhlenberg College known for?

    Muhlenberg College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  33. #28

    Allegheny College

    Meadville , PA

    Tuition + fees

    $54K

    Acceptance

    70%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    2K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1243/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Allegheny College

    Cost of Degree: $53,610
    Expenses: $17,296
    Starting Salary: $56,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Allegheny College known for?

    Allegheny College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  34. #29

    Arcadia University

    Glenside , PA
    #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Psychology Programs

    Tuition + fees

    $47K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1204/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Arcadia University

    Cost of Degree: $47,130
    Expenses: $16,320
    Starting Salary: $48,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Arcadia University known for?

    Arcadia University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  35. #30

    Robert Morris University

    Moon Township , PA
    #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania #8 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #20 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Robert Morris University

    Cost of Degree: $33,767
    Expenses: $19,024
    Starting Salary: $53,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Robert Morris University known for?

    Robert Morris University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

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Pennsylvania’s Best Private Colleges in Your Area Interest

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2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Swarthmore College
  2. Carnegie Mellon University
  3. University of Pennsylvania
  4. Bryn Mawr College
  5. Haverford College
  6. Westminster College, Pennsylvania
  7. Lehigh University
  8. Bucknell University
  9. Wilkes University
  10. Dickinson College
  11. Drexel University
  12. Franklin & Marshall College
  13. Saint Francis University
  14. Elizabethtown College
  15. Villanova University
  16. Lafayette College
  17. Thomas Jefferson University
  18. Allegheny College
  19. Washington & Jefferson College
  20. Ursinus College
  21. Susquehanna University
  22. Gettysburg College
  23. University of Scranton
  24. Duquesne University
  25. La Salle University

Check out our directory of private colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top private schools in every state.

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