Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Discover the best online colleges in Pennsylvania, along with fast-growing careers in the state and scholarships to pay for your degree.
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Updated January 6, 2025

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Pennsylvania blends charming nature and rural areas with bustling cities and proximity to major economic centers. You might attend a Pennsylvania college for its world-class academics, small student-to-faculty ratio, or high acceptance rate.

Online colleges in PA allow you to earn a degree on your terms. Choosing an online college can help you launch a lucrative professional career without sacrificing family or work obligations.

The best online colleges in PA have exceptional faculty, strong academics, diverse degree options, and low tuition.

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

#1 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Temple University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart: 

Temple University offers both undergraduate and graduate programs online. Classes may be asynchronous, synchronous, or hybrid. Online attendees pay the same tuition rate whether they live in state or out of state, but tuition costs vary based on the program and whether the student is full time or part time. 

Cost per Credit:
In State | $690-$1,138
Out of State | $690-$1,138

Why Students Choose Temple:

  • Accelerated Programs: Undergraduate and graduate degree programs may offer accelerated options. Accelerated bachelor's programs can be completed within three years. 
  • Holistic Admissions: The school considers applicants holistically, taking grades, extracurriculars, and letters of recommendation into account. 
  • No Scholarship Application: Students who apply by February 1 receive automatic consideration for merit-based scholarships. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • Complicated Costs: Tuition rates vary based on department and degree program.
  • Limited Choices: Temple offers less than 10 online bachelor's degree programs, including six bachelor of business administration specializations. 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$21,014
Out-of-state
$36,379
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,531
Out-of-state
$26,672
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
83%
Students Enrolled
30,205
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#2 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Drexel University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart: 

Drexel University provides a wide variety of online learning options with more than 150 degree and certificate programs available 100% online. Students can also pursue online minors related or unrelated to their majors. Veterans, Drexel alumni, and employees of corporate partners can receive reduced tuition rates. 

Cost per Credit:
In State | $985-$1,830
Out of State | $985-$1,830

Why Students Choose Drexel:

  • Transfer Credits: Undergraduates can transfer up to 90 credits for online degree programs. Credits must come from an accredited institution, and students must have earned a grade of C or higher. 
  • Graduate Success: Drexel reports that 96% of undergraduate alumni start working or pursuing additional education. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • Program Requirements: Online programs have varied admission requirements, including a minimum amount of transfer credits and a minimum cumulative GPA.
  • Tuition Differences: In-person and online students pay different tuition rates. In-person attendees pay per semester, while online attendees pay per credit. 
  • Counseling Services: Only in-person students can utilize the school's telehealth counseling services. 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,595
Out-of-state
$56,595
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$36,234
Out-of-state
$36,234
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
21,573
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
42% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus

  • University Park, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online

What Sets It Apart: 

Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers more than 200 online degree and certificate programs, including 41 bachelor's and 56 master's degrees. Programs can be completed fully online and have asynchronous curriculums. Undergraduate degree programs have a flat tuition rate, while graduate tuition varies by program. 

Cost per Semester:
In State | $7,755
Out of State | $7,755

Why Students Choose Penn State World Campus:

  • Student Interactions: Online courses promote discussions among classmates through discussion boards, chats, and emails.
  • Direct Major Admission: Applicants who meet program requirements and course prerequisites can enter their chosen major directly. 
  • Online Resources: Attendees can utilize student services, including academic advising, through email, phone, or instant messaging.

Know Before You Enroll:

  • Tiered Tuition: Undergraduate students with over 60 credits must pay a higher tuition rate than individuals with 59 credits or less. 
  • Graduate Scholarships: The school does not provide scholarship opportunities for online graduate students. Only online undergraduates qualify for scholarships. 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,054
Out-of-state
$15,054
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,164
Out-of-state
$24,164
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
13,979
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

University of Pennsylvania

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart: 

At the University of Pennsylvania, students can choose from 13 online degree programs, including bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. programs. Coursework is generally asynchronous, but some classes require synchronous sessions. Programs have full-time and part-time options, and some graduate programs may be completed in only 10 months. 

Cost per Semester:
In State | $10,064
Out of State | $10,064

Why Students Choose Penn:

  • Course Materials: Courses may provide learning materials to students through an online portal. Penn's bookstore may also have digital copies of required textbooks.  
  • Student Resources: Online attendees can access tutoring, academic advising, and career support services. 
  • Transfer Credits: Undergraduates can transfer up to 50% of their required credits. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • Bachelor's Degree: The school offers only one online bachelor's program: the bachelor of applied arts and sciences. In this program, students select a concentration instead of a major.
  • Distance Education Fee: Remote learners must pay an additional online fee of $156 per course.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,212
Out-of-state
$56,212
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$39,838
Out-of-state
$39,838
Retention Rate
98%
Acceptance Rate
6%
Students Enrolled
23,790
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

  • Slippery Rock, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart:

Slippery Rock University offers eight undergraduate degree completion programs and 40 graduate degree programs entirely online. The school offers degrees in many fields, including a fully asynchronous master of public health and an online accelerated MBA. Online programs charge per credit based on residency status. 

Cost per Credit:
In State | $374-$621
Out of State | $390-$693

Why Students Choose SRU:

  • Scholarship Offerings: SRU and its partners provide many scholarships annually to undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Automatic Acceptance: First-year applicants with a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher receive automatic acceptance into SRU. 
  • Assigned Advisors: Undergraduate students automatically receive an assigned academic advisor based on the student's major. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • Program Requirements: Bachelor's programs may require applicants to hold an associate degree or transfer at least 30 credits. 
  • Lack of Certification Information: Online master of education programs may offer endorsements and certifications. However, students must contact their state's Department of Education office to determine transferability. 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$11,574
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
8,362
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Villanova University

  • Villanova, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart: 

Students can choose from hybrid and fully online associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs at Villanova University. During the fall and spring semesters, students can enroll in accelerated courses, which combine online classwork, activities, and assignments into seven-week courses. Full-time undergraduate students pay a flat per-semester rate. 

Cost per Semester:
In State | $33,419
Out of State | $33,419

Why Students Choose Villanova:

  • Application Options: First-year students have four application choices, including binding and non-binding options. Each plan has its own application deadline and response timeline. 
  • Transfer Credits: Bachelor's enrollees can transfer up to 90 credits from another accredited institution. Students must have earned a grade of C or higher for credits to transfer. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • Lack of Program Variety: Villanova offers more associate and bachelor's programs online than graduate degrees.
  • Attendance Policy: Attendance policies may apply to online students depending on their program.  
  • Withdrawal Costs: Enrollees only have 24 hours to withdraw from an accelerated course without paying a fee. 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,768
Out-of-state
$60,768
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,207
Out-of-state
$21,207
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
10,383
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#7 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

DeSales University

  • Center Valley, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart: 

DeSales University offers online bachelor's and master's degree programs in synchronous, asynchronous, and hybrid formats. The school also offers multiple accelerated programs, including bachelor's degrees in accounting, business administration, and marketing. Most online programs charge a flat per-credit tuition rate. 

Cost per Credit:
In State | $575
Out of State | $575

Why Students Choose DeSales:

  • Prior Learning Credits: Students can earn course credits for prior learning through various methods, including military training, examinations, and portfolio assessments. 
  • Academic Success Center: The academic success center at Desales provides professional and peer tutoring for both on-campus and online attendees. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • Class Audit Fee: Attendees may need to pay $270 per credit to audit an online course. 
  • Adult Admission Requirements: DeSales considers online bachelor's programs to be adult studies programs. Applicants must have graduated high school at least five years ago, have a full-time career, or be a veteran. 
  • Few Scholarship Choices: DeSales provides nine scholarships for undergraduate students. Scholarships may have niche criteria, such as being a graduate of a Catholic high school or a choir participant.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,100
Out-of-state
$41,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,120
Out-of-state
$21,120
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
2,929
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Thomas Jefferson University

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart: 

Thomas Jefferson University offers 10 online bachelor's and 26 master's and doctoral programs. Programs may be available in accelerated formats, including an MBA program that can be completed in only one year. Online undergraduate students pay a per-credit rate. 

Cost per Credit:
In State | $650
Out of State | $650

Why Students Choose Jefferson:

  • Concentration Choices: Students in certain degree programs can choose from a list of concentrations or create their own custom concentrations. Custom concentrations can utilize courses in any program but must be approved by a program director. 
  • Online Assistance: Online students can work with the school's advising team to create their schedules and set personal goals. 
  • Elective Opportunities: Bachelor's programs may allow nearly 50% of credits to be elective credits, allowing students to pursue courses that further their educational goals and interests. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • GPA Requirements: Graduate programs may require applicants to have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. 
  • Career Services Specialization: Jefferson's Center for Career Success focuses on helping individuals in the healthcare industry. Students in other majors may have less support.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$43,100
Out-of-state
$43,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$22,509
Out-of-state
$22,509
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
8,315
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

  • Harrisburg, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart: 

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology has nine online bachelor's and master's degree programs, including a bachelor's-to-master's nursing program. Full-time and part-time online students pay the same per-credit tuition rate.  

Cost per Credit:
In State | $380
Out of State | $380

Why Students Choose HU:

  • STEM Focus: HU's online school concentrates on STEM majors, including cybersecurity, esports management, and healthcare informatics. 
  • Tutoring Assistance: Attendees can receive 24-7 online tutoring to ask questions, study with friends, or receive assignment feedback. 
  • Hands-On Experience: Programs may offer hands-on experiences. For example, the bachelor's in esports management helps students connect with teams, organizations, and event venues. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • First-Year Admission Requirements: First-year undergraduate applicants must have a cumulative high school GPA of 2.75 or higher. 
  • Tuition Rates: HU excludes online programs from receiving partnership program discounts or scholarships. The school states that 100% of in-person attendees receive a scholarship. 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$23,900
Out-of-state
$23,900
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,940
Out-of-state
$14,940
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
3,082
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#10 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025

Robert Morris University

  • Moon Township, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What Sets It Apart: 

Robert Morris University offers four undergraduate and 13 graduate degrees online. The school also has one accelerated dual-degree option: an MBA and Master of Science in Nursing program that teaches nursing leadership and business theories. Online students pay a per-credit tuition rate. 

Cost per Credit:
In State | $685-$875
Out of State | $685-$875

Why Students Choose RMU:

  • Dedicated Support: Online students receive a dedicated student counselor and an academic advisor. 
  • Program Variety: RMU offers programs in a variety of fields, including cybersecurity, organizational leadership, applied artificial intelligence, and marketing.
  • Asynchronous Programs: Some online programs offer entirely asynchronous coursework. Attendees may still have opportunities to network with classmates and professors. 

Know Before You Enroll:

  • GPA Preferences: RMU gives preference to first-year students with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Those applicants may receive direct admission into their program. 
  • Lack of Scholarships: Online attendees do not qualify for the school's merit scholarships.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,390
Out-of-state
$32,390
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
3,431
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric — affordability — accounts for 60% of our formula on our most affordable rankings. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.

This list is from 2025. To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.

Price Check

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average four-year tuition and fees at public colleges in Pennsylvania was $16,217 as of the 2022-2023 academic year. That's nearly $6,500 higher than the national average.

10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Pennsylvania

The healthcare and engineering industries are two of Pennsylvania's fastest-growing sectors. Both sectors offer multiple fast-growing careers, including neurologists, marine engineers, and radiologists.

The state may require additional professionals in these industries due to the aging of baby boomers and state infrastructure. The chart below demonstrates the careers with the highest projected growth rate from 2023-2033.

Fast-Growing Jobs In Pennsylvania
Job Projected Growth (2023-2033) Annual Mean Wage in Pennsylvania (May 2023)
Marine Engineers and Naval Architects 45% $108,110
Neurologists 42% $152,600
Atmospheric and Space Scientists 35% $87,840
Executive Secretaries and Administrative Assistants 34% $68,120
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians 33% $64,690
Sound Engineering Technicians 32% $53,720
Special Education Teachers 31% $76,420
Radiologists 29% $347,590
Nurse Midwives 26% $121,410
Obstetricians and Gynecologists 26% $314,610
Source: BLS, Projections Central

Majors to Consider to Prepare for Pennsylvania's Job Market

Attendees can pursue popular Pennsylvania careers by studying relevant topics. The list of majors below may help teach students essential skills for fast-growing career paths.

  • Biology

    Biology majors explore topics like anatomy, chemistry, and immunology. Graduates can use their knowledge to pursue MD degrees. Medical experts can specialize in multiple healthcare careers, including neurologist and obstetrician.
  • Nursing

    Nursing programs may teach general education, chemistry, and healthcare courses. Graduates may qualify for licensing exams to become registered nurses (RNs). Qualified RNs pursue various certifications based on their personal and professional interests.
  • Aerospace Engineering

    Aerospace engineering programs cover various aircraft designs, including fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and spacecraft. Attendees study engineering and technology principles, including aerodynamics, structural mechanics, and energy propulsion.
  • Special Education

    Enrollees learn about human development, instructional strategies, and assessment techniques for special education students. Learners may pursue programs that include hands-on experience with local students. Graduates may qualify for licensure, depending on the program.

Cost of Living in Pennsylvania

"Cost of living" refers to expenses related to daily life, such as food, shelter, and transportation. The average adult in Pennsylvania spends over $2,400 monthly to sustain themselves. This cost does not include additional school fees. Online students can save money on housing and transportation by completing courses from home.

Average Cost of Living in Pennsylvania
Cost of Living Category Average Cost Per Month
Housing $1,000
Groceries & Food $370
Transportation $809
Medical Care $292
Source: MIT Living Wage Calculator, using data for 1 Adult without children

Scholarships & Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Pennsylvania

There are many specialized scholarships in Pennsylvania to consider. You can use scholarships to fund online education if the college is accredited and meets the scholarship's other requirements. Here are five scholarships to get you started.

This scholarship awards $500-$2,000 to undergraduate students in mining, metallurgical, petroleum engineering, or materials science. Enrollees must attend school in Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, or Virginia to qualify.

Pennsylvania residents who enroll in land surveying majors can apply for this scholarship. The foundation chooses awardees based on their academic record, activities, and a statement. Qualified individuals must apply by April 30th.

Students at several eligible Pennsylvania colleges can use the Maguire Foundation's last-dollar scholarship for four years.

Chafee Grants is a federally funded program for Pennsylvania undergraduate students aging out of foster care and attending eligible postsecondary institutions. The award is $5,000 for the 2024-25 year.

This $5,000 scholarship is available for Pennsylvania college students enrolled in programs related to arboriculture or urban forestry at an accredited college or university. Candidates must apply before April 15th.

Tuition Reciprocity Benefits for Out-of-State Students in Pennsylvania

Tuition reciprocity allows out-of-state enrollees to pay discounted tuition rates in certain states. Reciprocity agreements and participating states vary by program. Pennsylvania, as one of the few states that does not participate in reciprocity agreements, does not offer statewide benefits to out-of-state attendees. Students can still apply for financial aid, including scholarships, loans, and grants.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Pennsylvania


What is the cheapest online college in Pennsylvania?

According to the NCES, Peirce College is the cheapest online college in Pennsylvania, with an average annual net price of $9,621. The Philadelphia-based Peirce College offers over 30 degrees and certificates 100% online, including 13 bachelor's degrees.

What is the easiest online college to get into in Pennsylvania?

Peirce College ranks among the easiest colleges to get into in Pennsylvania. With a 100% acceptance rate, Peirce has several 100% online degree programs. You can choose from seven associate's, 13 bachelor's, and nine master's degrees online.

How much does online college cost in Pennsylvania?

As of the 2022-2023 academic year, the average undergraduate tuition and fees for a public university in Pennsylvania, regardless of delivery method, is $16,217. For out-of-state students, the average costs jump to $31,844. Research several online colleges in PA for a look into specific distance learning costs.

Is online college free in Pennsylvania?

Online college in Pennsylvania isn't free. However, there are many free online learning resources and tuition-free online college options in Pennsylvania. In addition, while attending online classes at an accredited college or university, you could be eligible for scholarships, grants, or government financial aid.

Do I need to be a resident of Pennsylvania to attend an online college in Pennsylvania?

No — you don't have to be a resident of Pennsylvania to attend online colleges in PA. However, many colleges charge higher out-of-state tuition, even for online students. You can compare tuition for online Pennsylvania colleges to find the best option.

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AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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