Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
Small colleges in Pennsylvania are a great option for students interested in a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Whether the focus is on the technical or on the liberal arts, small colleges give you the chance to pursue a well-rounded education while working closely with classmates and professors in a dynamic community atmosphere.
10 Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
- Swarthmore College
- Haverford College
- Bryn Mawr College
- Dickinson College
- Bucknell University
- Lafayette College
- Washington & Jefferson College
- Franklin & Marshall College
- Gettysburg College
- Gannon University
- Swarthmore College
- Bryn Mawr College
- Haverford College
- Lincoln University
- Lafayette College
- Bucknell University
- Dickinson College
- Allegheny College
- Washington & Jefferson College
- Gettysburg College
- Chestnut Hill College 98%
- Wilkes University 94%
- La Salle University 94%
- University of Pittsburgh at Bradford 94%
- Robert Morris University 94%
- Washington & Jefferson College 88%
- Widener University 88%
- Albright College 85%
- University of Scranton 84%
- Ursinus College 82%
- Eastern University 15 to 1
- Elizabethtown College 13 to 1
- Wilkes University 13 to 1
- Robert Morris University 13 to 1
- Gannon University 13 to 1
- Grove City College 13 to 1
- Lincoln University 13 to 1
- University of Pittsburgh at Bradford 13 to 1
- University of Scranton 12 to 1
- La Salle University 12 to 1
- Franklin & Marshall College $65,844
- Haverford College $63,628
- Gettysburg College $61,760
- Bucknell University $61,746
- Dickinson College $61,351
- Lafayette College $59,368
- Bryn Mawr College $59,330
- Swarthmore College $59,328
- Muhlenberg College $58,205
- Ursinus College $58,016
- Bryn Mawr College $50,730
- Elizabethtown College $35,020
- Arcadia University $27,457
- Bucknell University $26,960
- La Salle University $26,400
- Widener University $25,850
- Wilkes University $24,000
- DeSales University $21,120
- Gannon University $20,610
- Chatham University $19,458
- Albright College
- Lycoming College
- Juniata College
- Wilkes University
- University of Pittsburgh at Bradford
- Chatham University
- DeSales University
- Robert Morris University
- Arcadia University
- Allegheny College
- Lycoming College
- Albright College
- University of Pittsburgh at Bradford
- Gannon University
- Arcadia University
- Wilkes University
- Juniata College
- DeSales University
- Eastern University
- Robert Morris University
- Swarthmore College 7%
- Haverford College 14%
- Bryn Mawr College 31%
- Bucknell University 33%
- Lafayette College 34%
- Dickinson College 35%
- Franklin & Marshall College 36%
- Gettysburg College 56%
- Eastern University 63%
- Chatham University 66%
- Allegheny College 8 to 1
- Muhlenberg College 8 to 1
- Swarthmore College 8 to 1
- Haverford College 8 to 1
- Bryn Mawr College 8 to 1
- Dickinson College 9 to 1
- Bucknell University 9 to 1
- Franklin & Marshall College 9 to 1
- Albright College 9 to 1
- Juniata College 10 to 1
- Lincoln University $8,476
- University of Pittsburgh at Bradford $13,660
- Grove City College $19,990
- Albright College $28,230
- Robert Morris University $33,767
- La Salle University $33,890
- Elizabethtown College $35,670
- Eastern University $36,464
- Gannon University $36,706
- Chestnut Hill College $39,410
- Albright College $1,480
- Gettysburg College $2,250
- Dickinson College $3,750
- Grove City College $8,550
- Lincoln University $10,106
- University of Scranton $11,580
- Juniata College $13,950
- Eastern University $14,058
- Chestnut Hill College $17,040
- Muhlenberg College $19,200
Key Takeaways
- Look beyond the large universities in Pennsylvania and consider the merits of a small college in the Keystone State. The strong sense of community combined with personalized attention from the faculty and staff members and excellent access to support services are among its benefits.
- Many of the best small colleges featured here have notable roles in the formation of higher education in the United States. Washington & Jefferson College is the oldest liberal arts school, while Bryn Mawr College is part of the prestigious Seven Sisters colleges.
- Pennsylvania is an excellent place to pursue higher education, too. Historical landmarks and attractions abound, thus, attracting history buffs. There are rich and diverse employment opportunities, too, thanks to the presence of Fortune 500 companies. Many of the country’s largest industries are also located here, from broadcast and telecommunications to agriculture and food manufacturing.
Pennsylvania’s Pride: Top-rated Small Colleges
Did you know that one of the outstanding small colleges in Pennsylvania on our list is only 41 years younger than the University of Pennsylvania, the Keystone State’s oldest institution of higher education? Established in 1781, Washington & Jefferson College started as three colleges in log cabins that became two competing colleges—Washington College and Jefferson College. By 1865, the two colleges merged to become W&J College.
Dickinson College (1783) is the second-oldest in our list of Pennsylvania’s best small colleges in Pennsylvania, followed by Franklin & Marshall College (1787), Lycoming College (1812) Allegheny College (1815), and Lafayette College (1826). Indeed, Pennsylvania has a solid history of higher education that continues to strengthen its society, economy, and culture!
Bryn Mawr College, ranked #3 on our list, is also notable for being part of the so-called Seven Sisters colleges, a group of highly selective liberal arts colleges known for being historically women’s colleges.
Love for Liberal Arts Education
With the exception of Gannon University, the top 10 best small colleges in Pennsylvania are private liberal arts colleges. This is a strong indication that Pennsylvania places immeasurable value on liberal arts in higher education!
What makes for a liberal arts college in the first place? Liberal arts colleges emphasize the study of liberal arts and sciences in their undergraduate programs. Their programs of study encourage students to develop broad general knowledge and skills, particularly in terms of general intellectual abilities.
These are typically four-year undergraduate institutions with a wide range of bachelor’s degree programs in liberal arts. But many also offer graduate programs at the master’s and doctoral degree levels.
Students may choose a particular major or discipline but gain a comprehensive exposure to a wide range of subjects. These can include social and natural sciences, arts and humanities, and mathematics, but can also include subjects not traditionally taught under a liberal arts curriculum.
Examples include computer science, business administration, and accounting, even engineering. Swarthmore College and Bucknell University, for example, have undergraduate engineering programs.
While vocational, technical, and professional programs of study emphasize the development of technical skills (i.e., skills specific to the profession or occupation), the emphasis in liberal arts is on transferable skills. Students acquire soft skills like communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills, as well as problem-solving skills, which are vital to life, citizenship, and work.
Most of the best small colleges in Pennsylvania are also private institutions; the exceptions are Lincoln University and University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, both of which are state-related institutions. Note that private colleges in Pennsylvania aren’t directly funded by the state and federal governments, meaning these colleges have greater reliance on diverse revenue sources. These include tuition and fees, donations, and endowments.
For this reason, many prospective students turn away from private liberal arts schools due to the higher cost of education compared with public institutions. However most of the best small colleges in Pennsylvania offer generous merit and need-based scholarships in addition to federal aid.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania also offers several scholarship programs for its college students, many of which are available to students in private small colleges, too. Examples include:
- Pennsylvania State Grant Program
- Pennsylvania House of Representatives Scholarship Program
- Pennsylvania Chafee Education and Training Grant Program
- Partnerships for Access to Higher Education Program
- Pennsylvania Targeted Industry Program
Pennsylvania also has loan forgiveness programs available for students pursuing degrees in high-demand professions that are, at their core, award-for-service programs. Explore the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program and the Federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program.
Reasons to Love Studying in Pennsylvania
If you’re into liberal arts and its study, you will find that Pennsylvania is the perfect place to satisfy your curiosity and even make new discoveries!
Known as the Keystone State for its pivotal role in US history, Pennsylvania appeals to history buffs with its abundance of historic landmarks and attractions. The Independence National Historical Park, Gettysburg National Military Park, and Carnegie Museum of Natural History are a few examples.
Let’s not forget that Pennsylvania is also a hub for higher education with many of the world’s best universities located here! The University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League university, and the University of Pittsburgh are a few examples—and, of course, the best small colleges featured here.
The cost of living in Pennsylvania is also affordable! At 1% lower than the national average, the Quaker State is a student-friendly place, indeed.
And the employment opportunities abound for graduates, too! Pennsylvania is home to several Fortune 500 corporations like H.J. Heinz, GE Transportation, and Walmart.
Among its largest industries are the coal, steel, and railroad industries; the agriculture industry particularly in mushrooms, apples, Christmas trees, milk and chickens, grapes and wines; and broadcasting and telecommunications.
Known as the Snack Food Capital of World, job opportunities are also present in its 2,300+ food manufacturing companies. There’s even a thriving casino gambling industry!
Indeed, now is the best time to consider enrolling in one of the best small colleges in Pennsylvania! You will not only get a well-rounded education in liberal arts and in other fields, but you can put your skills to good use
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?
- 15 Research Universities
- 80 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 34 Graduate Schools
- 21 Public Colleges & Universities
- 76 Private Colleges & Universities
- 44 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 78 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 27 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 20 Community Colleges
- Best Online Colleges
Pennsylvania’s Best Overall
The following list of the best small colleges and universities in Pennsylvania is composed mainly of four-year undergraduate schools (though a handful also offer graduate programs). We’ve identified 78 small colleges in Pennsylvania. The list below of the 30 best small colleges in Pennsylvania. To be included schools must fully accredited, and must have student body populations below 5,000 students.
Best Small Colleges in Pennsylvania 2023
- #4 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #4 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
- #5 Best Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #7 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #8 Best Colleges and Universities for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Colleges and Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Colleges and Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
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: $62,412Expenses: $21,691Starting Salary: $70,000Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Swarthmore College known for?
Swarthmore College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
- #19 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #20 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Other Rankings
- #6 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
- #8 Best Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
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: $68,020Expenses: $22,082Starting Salary: $75,100Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Haverford College known for?
Haverford College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Physics
- Philosophy
- Chemistry
- Economics
- History
- Psychology
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #14 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #15 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Pennsylvania 2025
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
- #10 Best Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #2 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
- #17 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
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: $62,560Expenses: $20,690Starting Salary: $61,000Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bryn Mawr College known for?
Bryn Mawr College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- History
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Social Work
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
35%
Graduation
84%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Dickinson College
Cost of Degree: $63,450Expenses: $19,752Starting Salary: $64,100Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Dickinson College known for?
Dickinson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025 #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
33%
Graduation
87%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1390/31
Career Outlook for degree at Bucknell University
Cost of Degree: $64,772Expenses: $19,018Starting Salary: $82,400Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bucknell University known for?
Bucknell University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Economics
- Religious Studies
- Chemistry
- Philosophy
- Sociology
- Engineering
- Political Science
- History
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #3 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025
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: $61,824Expenses: $20,790Starting Salary: $80,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lafayette College known for?
Lafayette College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
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: $28,185Expenses: $16,110Starting Salary: $60,100Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Washington & Jefferson College known for?
Washington & Jefferson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
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: $68,380Expenses: $17,638Starting Salary: $69,200Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Franklin & Marshall College known for?
Franklin & Marshall College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Literature
- Chemistry
- Political Science
- Economics
- History
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Physics
- Biology
Most Influential Alumni
- #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: $64,230Expenses: $17,730Starting Salary: $66,300Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Gettysburg College known for?
Gettysburg College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
70%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Gannon University
Cost of Degree: $37,951Expenses: $19,684Starting Salary: $55,100Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Gannon University known for?
Gannon University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #19 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
62%
Student body
6K
Career Outlook for degree at La Salle University
Cost of Degree: $35,570Expenses: $17,590Starting Salary: $61,100Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is La Salle University known for?
La Salle University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- History
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Business
- Communications
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
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: $53,638Expenses: $18,828Starting Salary: $59,100Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Widener University known for?
Widener University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #14 Most Influential HBCUs in the US Ranked for 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #3 Best Public Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
45%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
940/17
Career Outlook for degree at Lincoln University, Pennsylvania
Cost of Degree: $12,512Expenses: $15,993Starting Salary: $36,200Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lincoln University, Pennsylvania known for?
Lincoln University, Pennsylvania’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Education
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Anthropology
- History
- Sociology
- Communications
- Literature
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #9 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Accounting Programs 2025 #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: $52,034Expenses: $20,090Starting Salary: $62,300Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Scranton known for?
University of Scranton’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Philosophy
- History
- Literature
- Physics
- Psychology
- Communications
- Criminal Justice
- Political Science
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Pennsylvania #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
Tuition + fees
$20K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
81%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1245/28
What is Grove City College known for?
Grove City College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Religious Studies
- Social Work
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Science
- Mathematics
- Education
- Literature
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
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: $36,842Expenses: $15,104Starting Salary: $55,000Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Elizabethtown College known for?
Elizabethtown College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Economics
- Religious Studies
- History
- Business
- Biology
- Education
- Chemistry
- Criminal Justice
Most Influential Alumni
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: $59,196Expenses: $18,386Starting Salary: $61,800Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Ursinus College known for?
Ursinus College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #22 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 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: $37,420Expenses: $18,930Starting Salary: $48,100Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Eastern University known for?
Eastern University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Religious Studies
- Political Science
- Social Work
- Criminal Justice
- History
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #14 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
98%
Graduation
62%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Chestnut Hill College
Cost of Degree: $39,410Expenses: $19,444Starting Salary: $46,800Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Chestnut Hill College known for?
Chestnut Hill College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- History
- Education
- Literature
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Criminal Justice
- Law
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Christian Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025 #10 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
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: $60,240Expenses: $17,605Starting Salary: $65,300Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Muhlenberg College known for?
Muhlenberg College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- Literature
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
- Medical
- Education
- Biology
- Religious Studies
- History
- Chemistry
Most Influential Alumni
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: $54,960Expenses: $17,296Starting Salary: $56,800Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Allegheny College known for?
Allegheny College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Political Science
- Communications
- History
- Biology
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Religious Studies
- Business
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
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: $48,290Expenses: $18,850Starting Salary: $48,000Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Arcadia University known for?
Arcadia University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Medical
- History
- Literature
- Education
- Philosophy
- Communications
- Business
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania 2025 #8 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #15 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity 2025
Tuition + fees
$34K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
65%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Robert Morris University
Cost of Degree: $34,740Expenses: $18,334Starting Salary: $53,100Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Robert Morris University known for?
Robert Morris University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Business
- Nursing
- Economics
- Engineering
- Political Science
- History
- Communications
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's of Theology Degree Programs in 2025 #5 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs 2025
Tuition + fees
$43K
Acceptance
77%
Graduation
68%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1190/26
Career Outlook for degree at DeSales University
Cost of Degree: $44,800Expenses: $20,116Starting Salary: $54,700Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is DeSales University known for?
DeSales University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees
$42K
Acceptance
66%
Graduation
68%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1165/25
Career Outlook for degree at Chatham University
Cost of Degree: $43,810Expenses: $17,824Starting Salary: $43,400Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Chatham University known for?
Chatham University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Biology
- Social Work
- Political Science
- Communications
- Medical
- History
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
42%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1088/24
Career Outlook for degree at University of Pittsburgh at Bradford
Cost of Degree: $14,620Expenses: $16,380Starting Salary: $61,200Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Pittsburgh at Bradford known for?
University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s Online Degrees
BS in Nursing
Degree Concentrations
- Nursing Informatics
- Clinical Nurse Leader
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$41K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
59%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1160/23
Career Outlook for degree at Wilkes University
Cost of Degree: $42,286Expenses: $19,599Starting Salary: $58,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wilkes University known for?
Wilkes University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Literature
- Engineering
- Psychology
- Communications
- Biology
- Political Science
- Mathematics
- Earth Sciences
- Nursing
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
76%
Graduation
71%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1230/28
Career Outlook for degree at Juniata College
Cost of Degree: $56,402Starting Salary: $56,800What is Juniata College known for?
Juniata College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Biology
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- Engineering
- Literature
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$45K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
64%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1145/22
Career Outlook for degree at Lycoming College
Cost of Degree: $47,450Expenses: $18,082Starting Salary: $49,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lycoming College known for?
Lycoming College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Religious Studies
- Literature
- Biology
- History
- Business
- Philosophy
- Communications
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2024 #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Pennsylvania 2025
Tuition + fees
$28K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
48%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Albright College
Cost of Degree: $28,794Expenses: $17,628Starting Salary: $51,400Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Albright College known for?
Albright College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Albright College’s Online Degrees
BS in Applied Psychology
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Accounting
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 128
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Pennsylvania’s Best Small College in Your Area of Interest
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 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.
- Swarthmore College
- Bryn Mawr College
- Haverford College
- Westminster College, Pennsylvania
- Bucknell University
- Wilkes University
- Dickinson College
- Franklin & Marshall College
- Saint Francis University
- Elizabethtown College
- Lafayette College
- Allegheny College
- Washington & Jefferson College
- Ursinus College
- Susquehanna University
- Gettysburg College
- University of Scranton
- Grove City College
- Arcadia University
- Eastern University
- Muhlenberg College
- Misericordia University
- Lycoming College
- Juniata College
- Gannon University
Many states have great small colleges. If you’re interested in looking into what other states have to offer, check out the best small colleges in Delaware and New York.