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Commonly known as the Quaker State or Keystone State, Pennsylvania is a Mid-Atlantic state home to over 12 million residents. It is the fifth largest state in the nation while being the 33rd largest by land size. Given the density and size of the state, it is understandable the need for quality education. Pennsylvania has over 500 universities and colleges to its credit. Private colleges in the state are among some of the very best in the nation. With nearly five dozen private schools to research, you can find schools of all sizes throughout the state from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia. Locate your college match today with the most trusted online source for college-bound students. At MatchCollege, we have culled data for virtually every accredited college and university along with thousands of free educational resources to help you make the most of your college experience. Begin today by connecting with top ranked colleges and private colleges near you to help you reach your academic goals. Stay focused, get motivated, collect the right information, and be the best you can be.
2025 Best Private Colleges in Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania ("Penn") is recognized as America's first university. It is an urban university, internationally recognized as a great institution of higher learning and research. It is home to the nation's first medical school, and the center of technological invention. In 1946, the school released the first electronic, general-purpose digital computer. The school's founder, Benjamin Franklin, was noted for his many innovative inventions, including bifocal lenses and the lightning rod.
Penn ranks among the top 10 universities in the nation, and boasts a faculty of leaders in their fields. Among its acclaimed alumni, Penn boasts many innovators and pioneers, including 15 Nobel Prize winners, and the inventor of motion photography, Eadweard James Muybridge.
Penn offers an interdisciplinary approach to learning through many different programs including its on and off-campus study opportunities for cross-disciplinary or joint-major degrees at the undergraduate, graduate and professional levels. It also offers continuing education, distance learning, summer programs, international programs, study grants, and more.
History
The University of Pennsylvania was founded by Benjamin Franklin, who was known for his dedication to education and intellectual pursuits, as well as his commitment to public service. Founded in 1749, the university opened its doors in 1751 as the Charity School of Philadelphia. In 1874, the university added a teaching hospital to its growing programs and campus.
Academics
The academic calendar for the University of Pennsylvania follows the semester format, with fall, spring and summer semesters. It also offers a variety of special summer sessions and distance learning programs with flexible scheduling.
Colleges and Schools
- Annenberg School for Communication
- Graduate School of Education
- Law School
- Perelman School of Medicine
- School of Arts and Sciences
- School of Dental Medicine
- School of Design
- School of Engineering and Applied Science
- School of Nursing
- School of Social Policy and Practice
- School of Veterinary Medicine
- Wharton School (Business)
In addition to its 12 colleges and schools, the University of Pennsylvania offers a long list of research centers and institutes to choose from.
Student Life
There are hundreds of student groups and organizations available for involvement at the University of Pennsylvania. Student organizations cover every interest and focus, including academic, cultural, environmental, governmental, recreation and hobby groups. There are also honor societies, graduate and professional organizations, performing arts groups, political organizations, religious groups, service clubs, social clubs, publications and media, and many fraternities and sororities.
Many student services are available, as well as on campus housing, dining and shopping.
Traditions
The school colors for the University of Pennsylvania are red, blue and white.
Athletics
The Penn "Quakers" athletic teams participate in a wide range of intercollegiate sports, including:
Men's Sports:
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Fencing
- Football
- Sprint Football
- Golf
- Lacrosse
- Rowing
- Soccer
- Squash
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track and Field
- Wrestling
Women's Sports:
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Fencing
- Field Hockey
- Golf
- Gymnastics
- Lacrosse
- Rowing
- Soccer
- Softball
- Squash
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track and Field
- Volleyball
Satellite Campuses
As with most ivy-league colleges, all of Penn's 12 academic schools are located on a single campus.
Community Life
Penn is known for its picturesque campus, situated in the vibrant, cultural city of Philadelphia. A full calendar of activities and entertainment are available on campus year-round, but the city also offers a vibrant nightlife, many museums and art galleries, a wide range of top restaurants, and plenty of shopping and sightseeing in historic areas.
The Civic House is Penn's hub for community service, and its Barbara and Edward Netter Center for Community Partnerships is a central office for community initiatives and service.
Enrollment
25,860
Student to Faculty Ratio
6:1
Brown University provides a variety of program options for students to assist them in their growth and development. The school is located in Providence, RI and operated as a private institution. Enrollment at Brown University exceeds eight thousand annually. Students may choose from several areas of study, including:
- Social Sciences
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Fencing (NCAA Division I-AA)
Enrollment
10,257
Student to Faculty Ratio
6:1
Swarthmore College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Swarthmore, PA, which is a predominantly suburban area. Swarthmore College has an annual student enrollment of over 1,500.
Areas of study offered at Swarthmore College include:
- Social Sciences
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- English Language And Literature
- Psychology
- History
Students applying for admission are generally asked to submit an application, transcripts, records, test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by the school. Very common exam scores among applicants admitted to Swarthmore College are between 30 - 34 for the ACT exam, or 2030 - 2300 for the SAT exam. Competition runs high for admissions, given that only 20% of students who applied are accepted to the school. More information regarding admissions can be found at swarthmore.edu.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is around $45,000, but may change from year to year. Students are encouraged to visit the school's price of attendance calculator to better estimate their cost of attending Swarthmore College. Student housing is available on-campus for students. The annual cost of housing is about $6,800. Some students at Swarthmore College may qualify for financial aid, which is typically offered as grants or student loans.
The Swarthmore College Garnet participate in several intercollegiate athletic programs, with competitions managed and overseen by the NCAA. Available sports offered may include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
Students can visit the school's http://www.swarthmore.edu to view additional information.
Enrollment
1,559
Student to Faculty Ratio
8:1
Carnegie Mellon University, a nonprofit private institution, offers a variety of program options, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Pittsburgh, PA, it resides in an urban setting for students to study in. Around 11,000 students enroll at Carnegie Mellon University yearly. Here is a list of some of the popular programs Carnegie Mellon University offers:
- Computer And Information Sciences
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Engineering
- Public Administration And Social Services
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
- Football (NCAA Division III)
- Golf (NCAA Division III)
Enrollment
14,029
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Bucknell University is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, which is a predominantly rural area. Enrollment at Bucknell University is nearly 3,600 per year.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Social Sciences
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Psychology
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Engineering
- English Language And Literature
To be considered for admissions, you may be required to complete an application, write a personal statement, and submit school records, which are then studied by the admissions staff. Students may submit either the ACT or SAT scores to be considered for admissions at this school. A score between 1820 to 2100 on the SAT, or 27 to 31 for the ACT is usually submitted among accepted students. Admission to Bucknell University is considered highly competitive, with only 30% of students who applied on average being admitted each year. More information on admissions can be found here.
The cost of tuition is close to $48,000 for the year. Tuition prices may change for a variety of reasons, and therefore students should use the school's price of attendance calculator to understand their cost of attendance. The cost of on-campus housing is around $6,700 for the year. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the necessary requirements by way of scholarships, grants, and loans.
The Bucknell University Bison participate in a number of intercollegiate athletic programs, with competitions managed and overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs offered include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division I-AA)
Students should visit the website to obtain a complete list of areas of study, financial aid details, and more that is available at this school.
Enrollment
3,668
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
Villanova University, a nonprofit private institution, offers a variety of program options, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, it offers a suburban setting for students to study in. The school's Roman Catholic affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school's vision. Approximately eleven thousand students are enrolled annually at VU. Areas of study offered at Villanova University include:
- Legal Professions And Studies
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Communications And Journalism
- Social Sciences
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Football (NCAA Division I-AA)
Enrollment
11,030
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
LU, a nonprofit private institution, offers a variety of degree programs, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, it resides in an urban setting for students to study in. Approximately seven thousand students are enrolled per year at LU. Here is a list of some of the popular programs LU offers:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Engineering
- Psychology
- Physical Sciences
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division I-AA)
Enrollment
6,849
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
Haverford College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Haverford, Pennsylvania, which is a predominantly suburban area. Enrollment at Haverford College is nearly 1,200 yearly.
Students can select from many areas of study, including but not limited to:
- English Language And Literature
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Psychology
- Social Sciences
- History
To be considered for admissions, you may be required to complete an application, provide letters of recommendations, and submit high school records and test scores, which are then evaluated by admissions officials. Most students admitted to this school have an SAT score in a range of 1960 to 2260, or an ACT composite score between 30 to 33. Only 25% of applicants are accepted to the school due to the large number of applicants and the intense competition for the limited enrollment spaces available.
The cost of tuition is approximately $46,000 for the year. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and as such students should use the school's price of attendance calculator to identify their costs. Housing is available for students and costs about $8,000 each year. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the required requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
The Haverford College "Fords" have a number of intercollegiate athletic programs through participation in the NCAA. Athletic programs available:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
- Fencing (NCAA Division III)
Students may visit the website to see a complete list of areas of study, admissions information, and more that is available at this school.
Enrollment
1,310
Student to Faculty Ratio
8:1
Lafayette College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Easton, Pennsylvania, which is a predominantly suburban area. The school maintains a Presbyterian Church affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Approximately 2,400 students enroll at Lafayette College yearly. Areas of study available at Lafayette College include but are not limited to:
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- Engineering
- English Language And Literature
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Fencing (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division I-AA)
Enrollment
2,642
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Grove City College is a nonprofit private institution located in Grove City, Pennsylvania and provides a large number of degree programs for students. The school's Presbyterian Church affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school's vision. Grove City College has a yearly student enrollment of over two thousand.
Here is a list of some of the popular programs Grove City College offers:
- English Language And Literature
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Engineering
- Communications And Journalism
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Education
Students applying for admission are generally asked to submit an application, school records, standardized test scores and any requested personal statements, which will then be reviewed by the school. Most students accepted to this school have an SAT score within the range of 1119 - 1369, or an ACT composite score in a range of 25 - 30. 76% of those students that apply are accepted to Grove City College, of which 51% choose to enroll. More information on admissions can be found at gcc.edu.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $15,000, but may change per year. Students are encouraged to visit the school's price of attendance calculator to better understand their cost of attending Grove City College. Housing is available for students, which costs about $4,700 annually. This school may help with costs by offering financial aid for students that qualify in the form of grants and loans.
The Grove City College Wolverines participate in a number of intercollegiate athletic programs, with competitions managed and overseen by the NCAA.
Enrollment
2,338
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
About
Franklin and Marshall College, located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, was established in 1787 on a donation of 200 pounds by Benjamin Franklin. F&M has a 10 to 1 student to faculty ration with an average class size of nineteen students. The school offers a large number of study abroad programs, is host to over 75 clubs and organizations, and nearly 30 athletic teams. Students are encouraged to try a variety of things throughout their education and F&M, be it experimenting in the arts or working alongside faculty on research projects.
Academics
Franklin and Marshall College encourages students to work alongside professors to realize ideas and explore fully concepts presented in classrooms. The school offers a large number of majors and provides a flexible curriculum to assist students in experiencing a variety of subjects.
Programs offered include:
Admissions and Financial Aid
Franklin and Marshall College accepts applications online, and has a variety of methods for determining a students' academic acumen, accepting that standardized test scores may not be reflective of a student's ability and accepting graded writing samples in lieu of such scores. Students will be asked to submit various forms and information throughout the application process, such as transcripts, and should be prepared to do so when asked.
Financial aid is distributed based on need, and the school will provide the for that need throughout the four years the student attends. Need is determined by the school and can be elaborated upon by a financial aid officer at the school.
Athletics
The F&M Diplomats participate in the NCAA Division III, ECAC, Centennial Conference, and the EIWA.
Athletic programs:
- Baseball/Softball
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Golf
- Field Hockey
- Football
- Lacrosse
- Rowing
- Soccer
- Squash
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Track and Field
- Volleyball
- Wrestling
Enrollment
2,309
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
Muhlenberg College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Allentown, PA, which is a predominantly urban area. The Evangelical Lutheran Church affiliation of this school is an important part of the history, education and vision that defines the school. Over 2,500 students enroll at Muhlenberg College per year.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Psychology
- Communications And Journalism
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Visual And Performing Arts
- History
The admissions process begins with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and standardized test scores, which are then evaluated by the admissions office. The most common test scores among applicants admitted to Muhlenberg College are within the range of 25 - 31 on the ACT, or 1680 - 2030 on the SAT. Approximately 40% of all applicant were admitted at Muhlenberg College, with 28% of those admitted choosing to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found at muhlenberg.edu.
Tuition is approximately $44,000 annually, though it may vary based on different types of circumstances. Students may visit the school's net price calculator to determine cost. Student housing is available on-campus for students. The annual cost of housing is about $5,700. Students attending this school may qualify for aid which is typically grants and loans.
The Muhlenberg College "Mules" compete in a number of intercollegiate sports through participation in the NCAA. Available sports offered:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
- Football (NCAA Division III)
Students who would like to view more about this school can visit their website at http://www.muhlenberg.edu.
Enrollment
2,340
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Bryn Mawr College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, which is a predominantly suburban area. Nearly 1,800 students enroll at Bryn Mawr College per year.
Students can choose from a few areas of study, including but not limited to:
- Public Administration And Social Services
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- English Language And Literature
- Psychology
The admissions process begins with the submission of an application, transcripts, and standardized test scores, which are then reviewed by the admissions office. Either the SAT or ACT exam can be taken to apply to Bryn Mawr College. Scores within the range of 26 to 31 on the ACT or 1830 to 2140 on the SAT are recommended to increase your chances for getting accepted. Approximately 50 percent of all applicant were accepted at this school, with 33 percent of those admitted choosing to attend. More information from the admissions office can be found at brynmawr.edu.
Tuition is approximately $45,000 annually, though it may change based on different types of circumstances. Students may check the school's net price calculator to find what your personalized cost of attendance would be. On-campus housing is available for students, which costs around $8,100 each year. Financial aid may be provided to students that meet the necessary requirements in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
The mascot for Bryn Mawr College is the "Owls", and they participate in intercollegiate athletics through the oversight and organization of the NCAA.
Students may visit the school's http://www.brynmawr.edu to see additional information.
Enrollment
1,690
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
University of Scranton provides a variety of degree programs for students to guide them in their growth and development. The school is located in Scranton, PA and operated as a private institution. The school's Roman Catholic affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school's vision. Approximately six thousand students are enrolled per year at University of Scranton.
Areas of study available at University of Scranton include but are not limited to:
- Education
- Recreation And Fitness Studies
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Communications And Journalism
To be considered for admissions, students may be asked to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit high school records and test scores, which are then studied by the admissions staff. The majority of students accepted to this school have an SAT score between 1030 to 1210, or an ACT composite score within the range of 22 to 26. 72% of those students that apply are admitted to this school, of which 16 percent choose to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found here.
Undergraduate tuition is approximately $40,000 per year, though it may change based on any number of circumstances. Students may check the school's tuition calculator to get a more personalized estimate of costs. The cost of on-campus housing is around $8,000 annually. Financial aid may be offered to students that meet the necessary requirements.
The mascot for University of Scranton is the "Royals", and they participate in intercollegiate athletics through the NCAA. Athletic programs available include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
- Golf (NCAA Division III)
Students who would like to learn more about University of Scranton may take a look at their website at http://www.scranton.edu.
Enrollment
5,286
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Dickinson College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, which is a predominantly rural area. Enrollment at Dickinson College is nearly two thousand annually.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
Students applying for admission are usually required to submit an application, transcripts, standardized test scores and any requested application essays, which will then be reviewed by admissions officials. A SAT or ACT exam is required prior to applying, with scores within the range of 1790 to 2060 on the SAT and between 27 to 30 on the ACT is common among students accepted to this school. This school has an acceptance rate of around 42% of which only 26% chose to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found here.
The cost of tuition is nearly $47,000, but may change per year. Students are encouraged to use the school's tuition calculator to better estimate their cost of attending this school. Housing may be available for students who wish to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $6,100 per year. Some students at Dickinson College may be eligible for financial aid, which is generally offered as grants or student loans.
The Dickinson College Red Devils participate in several athletic programs, with competitions managed and overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
- Football (NCAA Division III)
Contact information, financial aid information, areas of study offered, and much more can be viewed on school's website at http://www.dickinson.edu.
Enrollment
2,399
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
Ursinus College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, which is a predominantly suburban area. Enrollment at Ursinus College is nearly 1,800 yearly.
Here is a list of some of the popular programs Ursinus College offers:
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- English Language And Literature
- Recreation And Fitness Studies
- Business And Marketing Studies
The admissions process starts with the submission of an application, student records, and standardized test scores, which are then reviewed by admissions officials. This school has an acceptance rate of around 70% of which only 16% chose to attend. More information regarding admissions can be found at ursinus.edu.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $46,000 annually. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and therefore students should visit the school's tuition calculator to get a better idea of their personalized cost estimate of attendance. Some students at this school may be eligible for financial aid, which is generally offered as grants or student loans.
The Ursinus College Bears participate in a number of athletic programs, overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs available may include the following:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
- Football (NCAA Division III)
Enrollment
1,435
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Saint Joseph's University, a nonprofit private institution, offers a large number of educational opportunities, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Philadelphia, PA, the campus resides in an urban setting for students to study in. The school maintains a Roman Catholic affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Enrollment at Saint Joseph's University is nearly eight thousand per year.
Students can select from a few areas of study, including but not limited to:
- Social Sciences
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Education
- Psychology
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
Students applying for admission are most often asked to submit an application, school records, standardized test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by the admissions committee. Either the ACT or SAT exam must be taken to apply to this school. Scores between 22 to 26 on the ACT or 1550 to 1820 on the SAT are needed to increase your chances for admission. This school admits around 80% of students applying yearly. Of those applicants accepted, nearly 20% of students attended the school. More information on admissions can be found here.
The cost of tuition is nearly $40,000, but may change from year to year. Students are encouraged to visit the school's price of attendance calculator to better understand their personal tuition costs. The cost of on-campus housing is approximately $8,400 annually. Students attending Saint Joseph's University may be eligible for aid which is typically loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
The Saint Joseph's University Hawks participate in several intercollegiate athletic programs, as part of the NCAA organization. Athletic programs available may include the following:
- Baseball (NCAA Division I-AAA)
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AAA)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AAA)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division I-AAA)
- Golf (NCAA Division I-AAA)
Students who wish to get more about this school may check out their website at http://www.sju.edu.
Enrollment
7,589
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
DU, a nonprofit private institution, offers a large number of degree programs, allowing students to choose which major is right for them. Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the campus resides in an urban setting for students to study in. The Roman Catholic affiliation at the school is an important part of the history, education and curriculum that defines the school. Approximately nine thousand students enroll at DU annually.
Areas of study available at DU include:
- Legal Professions And Studies
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Liberal Arts And Sciences
- Business And Marketing Studies
Students applying for admission are usually required to submit an application, transcripts, test scores and any requested application essays, which will then be reviewed by the admissions staff. The majority of students admitted to DU have an SAT score between 1550 - 1810, or an ACT composite score within the range of 23 - 27. 70% of those students that apply are admitted to this school, of which 29% choose to attend. More information from the admissions office can be found at duq.edu.
The cost of tuition is close to $32,000, but may change from year to year. Students are encouraged to use the school's net price calculator to better understand their personal tuition costs. On-campus housing is available for students, which costs around $5,900 annually. DU may help with costs by offering financial aid for students that are eligible in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans.
The Duquesne University Dukes participate in a number of athletic programs, overseen by the NCAA. Athletic programs offered may include:
- Basketball (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Football (NCAA Division I-AA)
- Lacrosse (NCAA Division I-AA)
Contact information, academics information, areas of study offered, and more can be viewed on school's website at http://www.duq.edu.
Enrollment
9,274
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
Gettysburg College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and helps students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Gettysburg, PA, which is a predominantly rural area. The school's Evangelical Lutheran Church affiliation is one of its defining characteristics and plays an important role within the school's curriculum. Approximately two thousand students are enrolled annually at Gettysburg College.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- English Language And Literature
- Social Sciences
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- History
- Psychology
Students applying for admission are most often asked to submit an application, transcripts, records, test scores and any requested letters of recommendations, which will then be reviewed by admissions officials. Students may submit either the SAT or ACT scores to be considered for admissions to this school. A score between 1220 - 1380 on the SAT, or 27 - 29 for the ACT is usually submitted among accepted students. This school has an acceptance rate of about 40% of which only 32% decided to enroll. More information on admissions can be found here.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is approximately $47,000 annually. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and that is why students should visit the school's net price calculator to get a better idea of their costs. Housing may be available for those that would like to live on-campus at an estimated cost of $6,000 annually. Some students at Gettysburg College may be eligible for financial aid, which is generally provided as scholarships, grants, and loans.
The mascot for Gettysburg College is the "Bullets", and they participate in intercollegiate athletic programs through oversight by the NCAA. Available athletic programs offered may include:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
Students should visit the school's http://www.gettysburg.edu to see additional information.
Enrollment
2,441
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
Messiah College is a four year Christian college dedicated to providing a faith based education to its students. The school is rooted in the Anabaptist, Wesleyan and Pietist traditions of Christianity. Messiah College was founded in 1909 in Grantham, Pennsylvania. The school has expanded over the last hundred years, offering more programs and opportunities. The school aims to educate young men and women and turn them into good Christians and model citizens.
Academics
Messiah College offers bachelor's degrees in the liberal arts and sciences for over 55 programs. The academic curriculum is provided in a Christian context and is augmented through off campus study, internships, individualized majors and research opportunities. Messiah College is nationally ranked, providing a top quality education for its students.
Programs offered include:
Admissions and Financial Aid
Admissions decisions are based on a candidates preparation for college, the relative strength of the student's academic program, SAT or ACT test scores, the application essay and the program of study desired. Applications are approved based on a first come first serve basis, with a review pending once all materials are received.
Financial aid opportunities are available to eligible students. Individuals should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and consult the financial aid office to discuss eligibility, availability and opportunities.
Athletics
The Messiah College Falcons participate in the NCAA division III mid-Atlantic conference:
Sports programs:
- Baseball/Softball
- Basketball
- Cross Country
- Golf
- Lacrosse
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Wrestling
- Volleyball
- Track & Field
Enrollment
3,375
Student to Faculty Ratio
12:1
Juniata College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, which is a predominantly rural area. Approximately 1,600 students are enrolled yearly at Juniata College. Here is a list of some of the popular programs Juniata College offers:
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Psychology
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Social Sciences
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
- Football (NCAA Division III)
- Soccer (NCAA Division III)
Enrollment
1,433
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Lebanon Valley College provides a variety of degree programs for students to guide them in their growth and development. The school is located in Annville, PA and operated as a private institution. The United Methodist affiliation at the school is an important part of the history, education and curriculum that defines the school. About two thousand students enroll at LVC annually.
A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Education
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Psychology
- Visual And Performing Arts
- English Language And Literature
To be considered for admissions, students may be required to fill out an application, write a personal statement, and submit any transcripts or test scores, which are then reviewed by admissions staff. 67% of students that apply are accepted to this school, of which 20 percent choose to enroll. More information from the admissions office can be found at lvc.edu.
The cost of undergraduate tuition is close to $37,000 for the year. Tuition prices may change for any number of reasons, and that is why students should use the school's price of attendance calculator to understand their personalized cost estimate of attendance. Housing may be available for those who wish to live on-campus for around a cost of $4,700 annually. Some students at Lebanon Valley College may qualify for financial aid, which is typically offered in the form of loans, grants, scholarships and work study programs.
The mascot for Lebanon Valley College is the "Flying Dutchmen", and they participate in intercollegiate sports through the NCAA. Sports available:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
Students may visit the school's http://www.lvc.edu to see additional information.
Enrollment
1,922
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
University of the Sciences is a nonprofit private institution located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and provides a large number of program options for students. Approximately 2,900 students are enrolled annually at University of the Sciences. A list of some of the more popular programs offered are:
- Health And Clinical Professions
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Recreation And Fitness Studies
- Physical Sciences
- Psychology
- Baseball (NCAA Division II)
- Basketball (NCAA Division II)
- Golf (NCAA Division II)
Enrollment
2,231
Student to Faculty Ratio
7:1
Washington & Jefferson College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Washington, PA, which is a predominantly suburban area. Enrollment at W&J is nearly a thousand per year.
Here is a list of some of the popular programs W&J offers:
- Business And Marketing Studies
- Psychology
- English Language And Literature
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Social Sciences
The admissions process will begin with the submission of an application, transcripts, records, and standardized test scores, which are then reviewed by admissions officials. W&J has an acceptance rate of 43 percent of which only 14 percent chose to attend. More information on admissions can be found at washjeff.edu.
Tuition is approximately $40,000 per year, though it may change based on any number of circumstances. Students may visit the school's net price calculator to get a more personalized estimate of costs. Housing is available on-campus for students. The yearly cost of housing is around $6,300. Washington & Jefferson College may help with costs by offering financial aid for students that qualify by way of grants and loans.
The W&J Presidents participate in a number of athletic programs, overseen by the NCAA. Sports available:
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
- Field Hockey (NCAA Division III)
Students may take a look at the school's http://www.washjeff.edu to see additional information.
Enrollment
1,357
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Allegheny College is a liberal arts college that offers an undergraduate education and assists students in developing important skills useful in pursuit of graduate education or employment. A liberal arts curriculum exposes students to a variety of topics and subjects. The school is located in Meadville, Pennsylvania, which is a predominantly rural area. The school maintains a United Methodist affiliation, which is evident in the role it plays in program curriculums and daily life at the school. Approximately two thousand students are enrolled annually at Allegheny College. Areas of study available at Allegheny College include but are not limited to:
- Biological And Biomedical Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- English Language And Literature
- Natural Resources And Conservation
- Baseball (NCAA Division III)
- Basketball (NCAA Division III)
- Track & Field (NCAA Division III)
- Football (NCAA Division III)
Enrollment
1,771
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Top Rated Private Universities in Pennsylvania

Top ranked private colleges in Pennsylvania include a robust list of higher education institutions that start with Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, Robert Morris University, Lehigh University, Villanova University, U Penn, Drexel University, LaSalle University, Seton Hall University, and the Art Institute. Dozens of private universities dot the state and provide a vast array of academic opportunities for students.
Popular Degrees at Pennsylvania Private Colleges

Top-tier private colleges in Pennsylvania offer traditional degree pathways likeengineering,teaching,math,business, andhealthcarealong with professional degrees in physical therapy,med school,nursing,law,pharmacy, andveterinary medicine. In addition to more traditional areas of study, you can engage in emerging departments such asindustrial engineering,robotics,data modeling,gerontology,health informatics,immunology,homeland security,computer science,biotechnology,toxicology, andcytotechnology.
List of Large 4-Year Private Universities in Pennsylvania
There are 20 large private universities in our database for Pennsylvania. Follow the links below to get more details about each school.
Large Universities with Research Facilities or Faculty
The universities listed below offer many diverse academic programs, have a large student body, and usually have research facilities or faculty involved with research. These schools very often have graduate and professional programs as well.

Duquesne University (Drexel) in Philadelphia, PA
Visit the website for Duquesne University at duq.edu
Program Details
- More Than 20,000 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
- Estimated tuition & fees: $42,000 per year

East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania (East Stroudsburg University) in Pittsburgh, PA
Visit the website for East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania at esu.edu
Program Details
- 5,000 to 9,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
- Estimated tuition & fees: $12,000 per year

Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Immaculata, PA
Visit the website for Indiana University of Pennsylvania at iup.edu
Program Details
- 1,000 to 4,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
- Estimated tuition & fees: $14,000 per year

Wilkes University (Wilkes) in Chester, PA
Visit the website for Wilkes University at wilkes.edu
Program Details
- 5,000 to 9,999 Undergraduate Students Enrolled
- Estimated tuition & fees: $40,000 per year
Large Primarily Academic Universities
Each university listed below offers a diverse set of degrees and programs, unlike the research universities listed above, these schools contain little to no research activity on campus and are primarily academic.
- California University of Pennsylvania in Radnor, PA
- Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie Mellon; CMU) in Pittsburgh, PA
- Chatham University (Chatham) in Summerdale, PA
- Dickinson College in Doylestown, PA
- Edinboro University of Pennsylvania in Saint Davids, PA
- Gettysburg College in Beaver Falls, PA
- Grove City College in Melrose Park, PA
- King's College - Wilkes Barre (Kings College) in La Plume, PA
- La Salle University in Pittsburgh, PA
- Lehigh Carbon Community College in Annville, PA
- Montgomery County Community College - Central Campus in Dallas, PA
- Muhlenberg College in Cresson, PA
- Saint Francis University in Rosemont, PA
- Saint Joseph's University in Loretto, PA
- Seton Hill University in Scranton, PA
- Thomas Jefferson University in Greenville, PA
Small to Medium Sized 4-Year Universities
The 4-year schools listed below have a small to medium sized student body and may offer a wide range of associate and bachelor's degrees. Get more information about each school by clicking the links below.
- Central Penn College (Central Penn) in Summerdale, PA
- Chestnut Hill College (CHC) in Pittsburgh, PA
- Cheyney University of Pennsylvania (CHC) in Philadelphia, PA
- Geneva College in Erie, PA
- Harcum College in Gwynedd Valley, PA
- Keystone College in Huntingdon, PA
- Lackawanna College in Philadelphia, PA
- Manor College in Williamsport, PA
- Mount Aloysius College (Moravian Theological Seminary) in Bethlehem, PA
- Rosedale Technical Institute in Moon Township, PA
- Saint Vincent College in Philadelphia, PA
- Swarthmore College (Swat) in Selinsgrove, PA
- Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (Swat) in Swarthmore, PA
- The University of the Arts (UArts) in Philadelphia, PA
- Valley Forge Christian College (VFCC; UVF) in Collegeville, PA
- Vet Tech Institute (Marywood) in Scranton, PA
- Waynesburg University (Waynesburg College) in Washington, PA
4-Year Colleges with a Special Focus on an Area of Study
The schools below are grouped by their special area of focus. To learn about admissions, tuition & fees, programs offered, and more click on the school names below.
Theological Seminaries, Bible Colleges, and Other Faith-Related Institutions
- Community College of Beaver County in South Abington Township, PA
- Luzerne County Community College in Gettysburg, PA
- Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA
- Temple University in Philadelphia, PA
- The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College (RPTS) in Pittsburgh, PA
- Thiel College (Reformed Episcopal Seminary) in Blue Bell, PA
- Ursinus College (Trinity School for Ministry) in Ambridge, PA
- Westmoreland County Community College (WCCC) in Glenside, PA
- York College Pennsylvania (YCP) in Scranton, PA
Health Professions Schools
- Community College of Philadelphia (USciences) in Philadelphia, PA
- Pennsylvania Institute of Technology in Elkins Park, PA
Schools of Art, Music, and Design
- Moravian College and Moravian Theological Seminary (Moravian College) in Philadelphia, PA
- Philadelphia Biblical University - Langhorne (Cairn) in Philadelphia, PA
- University of Pennsylvania in Lancaster, PA
Special-Focus Institutions
- Robert Morris University in Philadelphia, PA
Medical Schools and Medical Centers
- University of the Sciences (USciences) in Philadelphia, PA
Notes: Tuition & fee amounts are for both Pennsylvania in-state residents and out of state students, unless noted otherwise. The tuition information displayed is an estimate, which we calculated based on historical data and should be solely used for informational purposes only. Please contact the respective school for information about the current school year.
Source: IPEDS Survey 2012-2020: Data obtained from the US Dept. of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data may vary depending on school and academic year.