Pennsylvania ranks as one of the top 10 most expensive states for college tuition. However, online students often save on many of the expenses that on-campus students incur.
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The best colleges in Pennsylvania cater to students looking to advance their education and career. Both in-state and out-of-state students benefit from attending online colleges in Pennsylvania. The state provides out-of-state degree-seekers with educational opportunities that may not exist where they live.
Students in Pennsylvania can pay in-state tuition at public schools if they live in the state for 12 consecutive months before enrolling. However, the state waives this requirement for select groups, including active-study service members, veterans, and U.S. Department of Defense contractors. Additionally, many online programs allow students to pay in-state tuition regardless of where they live.
Choosing a school represents one of the biggest decisions any aspiring college student can make. Some students may emphasize affordability while others may weigh program flexibility and graduation rates more heavily. Our rankings are based on a series of qualifications and metrics, all focused on quality and affordability. Scroll down to see the list of top online schools in Pennsylvania.
See Our Rankings MethodologyRank | School | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Cairn University-Langhorne | Langhorne, PA |
2 | Temple University | Philadelphia, PA |
3 | Clarks Summit University | South Abington Township, PA |
4 | La Roche University | Pittsburgh, PA |
5 | Wilson College | Chambersburg, PA |
6 | University of Valley Forge | Phoenixville, PA |
7 | University of Pittsburgh | Pittsburgh, PA |
8 | Peirce College | Philadelphia, PA |
9 | California University of Pennsylvania | California, PA |
10 | Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | University Park, PA |
Pennsylvania ranks as one of the top 10 most expensive states for college tuition. However, online students often save on many of the expenses that on-campus students incur.
Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania ties for the most affordable college in Pennsylvania with nine other postsecondary institutions.
Prospective students must live in Pennsylvania for 12 consecutive months to qualify for in-state tuition. However, some schools allow all online students to pay in-state tuition regardless of where they live.
Langhorne, PA
Anyone interested in attending a Catholic university may find their community at Cairn University. At this college,there are six schools of education: Business, Divinity, Education, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Music, and Social Work. Students can earn a master's degree while they also earn their undergraduate degree through Cairn's dual-level degree program, which will allow them to graduate with a higher-level degree in as few as five years. There is an emphasis on the biblical perspective in all undergraduate majors, and graduate students study the Bible and theology in addition to pursuing their professional development. For students who want to complete a degree in Bible studies, Christian ministry, counseling, or liberal studies, there are degree completion programs for these specific fields. Students looking to earn online degrees in Pennsylvania can enroll in Cairn's nbsp;online graduate and degree-completion programs, which also provide a strong emphasis on Catholic values. At Cairn, on-campus and online students alike will learn to apply their beliefs to everyday life, their education, and their careers.
Philadelphia, PA
Temple University is a great choice for students seeking undergraduate, graduate, or professional degrees in Pennsylvania, and students who are interested in exploring international education opportunities. With 17 schools and colleges across seven different campuses located in Philadelphia and Harrisburg, Rome, and Tokyo, students can find their place within the larger Temple student body. Temple also offers online, distance, and blended courses for students seeking to earn a graduate degree through online colleges in Pennsylvania.Accelerated degree programs allow students to earn both a bachelor's and advanced degree in a shorter amount of time—between five and seven years, depending on the program. Several of Temple's colleges offer dual degrees as well, which have a deeper focus on aspects of law, medicine, theater and media, public health, and business. Adult learners and professional development-seekers are also welcome to take continuing education courses at Temple.
South Abington Township, PA
Previously known as the Baptist Bible College and Seminary of Pennsylvania,;Clarks Summit University;is a Baptist college for undergraduate, graduate, and seminary students in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Clarks Summit offers online and on-campus programs that focus on ministries, Bible and theology studies, and counseling, in addition to traditional majors like business and literature. Students seeking online degree programs in Pennsylvania with a curriculum based in the Bible will find that Clarks Summit offers associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree programs through;distance learning.;There are also;a range of study abroad experiences;to explore through this university. Students can develop an understanding of other cultures while exploring different ministries around the world in places like Germany, South Africa, Italy, and Peru. Ten percent of students at Clarks Summit come from;homeschool backgrounds,;and the college works to create a community environment that supports these students. Undergraduate students;live on-campus;in one of seven residence halls, sharing a three-bedroom suite with up to five other students. Graduate and seminary students can also;stay in dorms on-campus or visit campus dorms;during the course of their studies.
Pittsburgh, PA
Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, La Roche College is a private, Catholic institution that offers over 50 majors in the fields of education and nursing, management, natural and behavioral sciences, the humanities, and design. The design program at La Roche provides internship opportunities and potential minors in visual communications or sustainable interdisciplinary studies, which provide deeper attention to creative problem solving and environmental concerns. Ministry opportunities at this college focus on service to Pennsylvania communities as well as global service, and there is a strong international studies program committed to peace and justice. Students seeking to complete degrees through online colleges in Pennsylvania will find that La Roche offers several business, nursing, and criminal justice degree completion programs for remote learners. There are also individual courses available online for students who would like to combine on-campus classwork with online learning. On-campus students may live in the apartment-style dorms, or commute from the nearby area.
Chambersburg, PA
While Wilson College offers a range of undergraduate majors, they have specialized programs for students interested in working with horses. They have several equine-based courses of study, including Equine Facilitated Therapeutics, which also reflects Wilson's emphasis on educational training. Students in this major learn therapy techniques that use horses, encouraging physical improvement and emotional development in people with special needs. Graduate students can choose to earn a master's in business, education, the arts and humanities, or nursing. Adult learners are welcome to enroll in any of Wilson's programs, including adult learners who wish to earn a degree through online colleges in Pennsylvania; there are hybrid programs available as well as entirely online degree programs. Wilson offers a Masters of Education online and several online nursing programs. Students who choose to attend classes on-campus exclusively wil ;live on-campus for all four years in several different housing options: with roommates, in a single, or in a suite-style dorm.
Phoenixville, PA
The University of Valley Forge is a private Christian and interdenominational college that offers undergraduate, graduate, and associate degrees in the arts, sciences, and various professions, including ministry leadership and theology. The are accelerated online programs for both undergraduate and graduate degrees, which work well for students looking to attend online colleges in Pennsylvania and quickly earn their degree. There are also traditional degree programs available online for students. All Valley Forge students, whether they take classes online or in-person, complete the equivalent of a dual degree program; Biblical World View is a required course of study, and then students choose from over 50 other majors. The college has a very strong Department of Intercultural Studies program, including courses for Deaf students and students who wish to minster in the Deaf community. High school juniors and seniors can also take college courses online for credit through Valley Forge's Dual Enrollment program, getting a jump-start on college credits. This can save students a lot of money, whether they choose to attend Valley Forge for their undergraduate degree or attend a different college with these early credits out of the way.
Pittsburgh, PA
The second-largest city in Pennsylvania hosts the main campus of University of Pittsburgh, which offers over 100 different undergraduate majors. Students can earn a degree in the liberal arts, a professional degree program, STEM fields, medicine, or take one of 20 distance learning courses that allow students to earn a certificate or degree from a nationally ranked online college in Pennsylvania. Most of the University of Pittsburgh's online courses are graduate certificates or graduate degrees, but the college's school of nursing also offers both undergraduate and doctoral degree programs to online students. High school students and graduate students who have clear professional goals can apply for the University of Pittsburgh's Guaranteed Admissions program, which ensures students are admitted to the specific program that will help them achieve their intended career path. The college also offers personal growth and development experiences to on-campus students through the Outside the Classroom Curriculum. This curriculum incorporates classes, experiences, and self-reflection to help students gain skills to prepare them for employment or graduate school.
Philadelphia, PA
At Peirce College, students can earn an undergraduate or master's degree in business, healthcare, legal studies, or technology. Peirce values students' life experiences and previous educational milestones, offering transfer credits for passing exams, previous certifications or credits, and military and work experience. Adult learners who want to earn their degree faster can also enroll in an intensive program that allows students to take additional course credit during weekends, the college's winter break, or through an online class. Students can earn online degrees in Pennsylvania through Pierce's online learning programs, which have the same level of high-quality instruction as their on-campus programs. Because Peirce's degree programs are structured in the same ways, students can earn their degree online, on-campus in Philadelphia, or in a hybrid program. Peirce also offers competency-based education, which is self-paced and fully online. This program is ideal for students with previous experience who only want to learn and pay for what they need to know to progress and earn a degree in their field.
California, PA
California University of Pennsylvania encourages students to get the most out of their education with over 100 undergraduate programs, 95 graduate programs, and additional certificate programs that offer even more experiences to students earning undergraduate or master's degrees. The college's Four-Year Graduation Plan ensures undergraduate students feel supported and succeed with advising, counseling, and individual attention. Members of the U.S. military and their families interested in earning further degrees will find scholarships and discounts along with flexible education opportunities at this college. California University offers over 75 distance learning programs for students looking to earn online degrees in Pennsylvania. Adult learners seeking continuing education on-campus or online are also welcome, as are high school students and visiting undergraduate students from other universities who want to earn college credits. On-campus students can enjoy SAI Farm, a repurposed beef and dairy farm adjacent to campus that now hosts a garden, an environmental studies habitat, various recreation areas, and an open-air amphitheater.
University Park, PA
Pennsylvania State University's World Campus offers the same degrees and programs that an on-campus student attending Pennsylvania State University would have access to. Students can earn certificates, undergraduate and graduate degrees, or doctoral degrees, all through online self-study, peer interaction, and instruction from top professors. The World Campus Military Team works with active service members and veterans to incorporate individual educational goals with military responsibilities and benefits, and there are a range of scholarships and services available to students in the military and their spouses. Students who previously attended Pennsylvania State University, either on-campus or online, can easily apply their previous credits to a World Campus program.International students with English language proficiency are also welcome to enroll and earn an online degree in Pennsylvania through this program.
Clarion, PA
The historic, 150-year-old;Clarion University of Pennsylvania;provides a range of over 100 degree programs for students to choose from as they pursue educational opportunities and careers in their ideal field. Students interested in studying areas of health can take advantage of Clarion's;Pre-Professional Programs,;which offer close advising with highly trained professionals in areas such as dentistry, veterinary medicine, and physical therapy. High school students can take courses for college and high school credit through a;Dual Enrollment Program,;which is part of Clarion's extensive;online course offerings.;The college has distance learning programs to suit any schedule, including;seven-week online programs;for five different majors that allow students to work more quickly through course material to earn a degree or certification through this online college in Pennsylvania. New students and;adult learners;alike can find the right program to earn their degree either on-campus or entirely online.
Mansfield, PA
Students at Mansfield University of Pennsylvania can choose from a wide range of undergraduate majors, but also may explore over 40 minors to fine-tune their educational experience. Mansfield offers graduate-level courses to students who are not pursuing a degree, but are interested in earning college credits, enriching themselves professionally or personally, or meeting Pennsylvania educator requirements. Five Pennsylvania high schools are involved in Mansfield's Dual Enrollment program, which allows students at these select high schools to take college courses that fulfill both high school and college course credits. Even students who are not at these five high schools can enjoy taking college courses at Mansfield through the college's College Bound program. Mansfield also offers online individual courses or full distance-learning academic programs to students who wish to attend an online college in Pennsylvania. The same courses are available to online students and on-campus students, and online students at Mansfield have access to the same library resources as well.
Indiana, PA
Students who enroll atIndiana University of Pennsylvaniaand attend classes on-campus will find that this university works to support students' academic success in all aspects of their life. Theon-campus housing optionsinclude suite-style dorms with study and resource rooms, and living-learning communities of peers who share similar academic, career, or personal goals and participate in academic and co-curricular programs together. Indiana University of Pennsylvania cultivates well-rounded students with theirspecial programs,which range from ROTC to sustainability studies. The university'sinterdisciplinary education programsdraw faculty from different departments to provide students in these programs with greater perspective. The college is also known for itsculinary school.Students exploring online colleges in Pennsylvania will find fully online or hybrid undergraduate and graduate degree programs at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Theonline programhosts hundreds of courses in over 50 areas of study if students want to complete general education or prerequisite courses online to save time and money.
Slippery Rock, PA
The four colleges, graduate studies program, and honors programs atSlippery Rock University of Pennsylvaniaset this school apart as an environment for academically-focused individuals. Undergraduate students canpursue researchand gain experience in their fields through self-directed study. TheHonors Collegeoffers many benefits to students interested in greater academic challenges, including spring trips and international education opportunities.On-campus students livein residence halls, apartments, living learning communities with peers who have common interests, or graduate student housing, which creates a greater sense of community. Students looking to earn online degrees in Pennsylvania can work to complete their undergraduate degree or undertake a master's or doctorate program through Slippery Rock'sonline learning programs,which offer the same learning tools and high-quality instruction that on-campus students receive.
West Chester, PA
West Chester University of Pennsylvaniaknows the value of cultivating students' interests, whether they are finely focused or wide-ranging. Students have opportunities topursue researchat any stage of their academic career, in fields that are within their area of study or just within their areas of interest. U.S. military veterans and their spouses and dependents will find a wealth of resources available through theGreg and Sandra Weisenstein Veterans Center,from financial aid to ROTC information.Living on campusis a great way to experience the college community, and there are several different residence hall options, including shared suites or apartments. Students who wish to earn an online degree in Pennsylvania will find themselves supported every step of the way through West Chester'sonline master's, doctoral, and graduate certification programs.Some of West Chester's manydegree programsand courses are only available online or through a blended format of classroom learning and online self-study, but students always have access to academic support, either over email or by phone.
Edinboro, PA
First-year students atEdinboro University of Pennsylvaniaare fully supported in their transition into college life and college academics through theFirst-Year Experience Program.At this university, there are five colleges, 22 departments, and over 100 fields of study that students can explore as they pursue their academic and career goals in business, education, science and health professions, the arts, humanities and social sciences, or graduate studies and research. Edinboro'sHonors Programis available to students pursuing any major and gives preferential scheduling privileges, special housing options on Living-Learning Floors, extended library privileges, scholarships, and opportunities for both travel and mentoring. Edinboro also encourages students who are not seeking a degree but are interested in taking college courses canspend a year taking classes that interest them.For students seeking online degrees in Pennsylvania, Edinboro offers undergraduate and graduate programs as well as video conference courses that can be completed throughdistance learning.Both online and on-campus students can sign up forpersonal enrichment and professional development coursesto expand their range of experiences.
Lock Haven, PA
Lock Haven University has a historical mission of training Pennsylvania teachers, and while they continue to offer great programs for educators, they have vastly expanded the scope of their programs. Students can choose to pursue a degree from one of three colleges: natural, behavioral, and health sciences; liberal arts and education; or business, information systems, and human services.Undergraduate programs are broken up into majors, minors, concentrations, and dual majors, so undergraduates have opportunities to explore and develop their academic interests and demonstrate their commitment to future careers in their chosen field. For those interested in attending online colleges in Pennsylvania, Lock Haven has several graduate programs available in a completely online format, along with online trainings for people interested in taking classes without earning college credit. Many undergraduate courses are also available online. Beyond academics, Lock Haven's Global Honors Program supports scholars who are well-rounded and interested in developing their leadership skills. There also are opportunities to pursue hands-on research projects with peers and professors. Because Lock Haven has a small student body, it is possible for students to live on campus all four years in a residence hall, suites, or apartments.
Pittsburgh, PA
The East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania touts itself as a "university without walls", a phrase that emphasizes its sense of community. Located in eastern Pennsylvania, the university's small-town feel carries over into the school's atmosphere. However, nearby interstate access connects students to locations like Philadelphia or New York City in less than two hours. Here, students can choose from 55 undergrad or 22 master's programs, with one doctoral degree on the docket. East Stroudsburg is easily one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania for students who want options, from online to on-campus classes and outdoor activities ranging from canoeing, skiing or tubing to big-city travels. There are also 100 student-run organizations and 20 athletic programsin which to participate while earning a higher education from East Stroudsburg, a school with more than a century of history.
Williamsport, PA
At Pennsylvania College of Technology, students find hands-on learning leading to more than 100 degrees. The school boasts a 96 percent job placement rate after graduation with the “degrees that work.” Earn an associate degree, a bachelor's degree, or a variety of certifications in technology fields from one of the best technical colleges in Pennsylvania. The 17-student average class size ensures students receive the attention they deserve at Penn College, where part-time or full-time commitments are accepted. Nine degrees, for which an out-of-state discount may be applied, can be completed totally online, with others offered on campus in fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, and construction. Degree seekers at Penn College may benefit from a range of campus life perks, including child care, campus living, student activities and study abroad programs, to name a few. Discover the college in Williamsport, PA, about one hour south of the New York State border!
Melrose Park, PA
Gratz College, founded more than a century ago, teaches Jewish studies and holds the record for oldest independent college in the field. Gratz was the first higher education Jewish institution to accept women as equal students to men. Ever evolving, the school offers on-campus, online and blended learning while earning bachelor's or master's degrees, PhD or EdD, along with multiple certifications. Explore the non-profit school's available courses to get a feel for the type of Jewish-centric education offered at one of the best Jewish colleges in Pennsylvania. Gratz College has received recognition and accreditation from or partnership with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the Ministry of Education and Culture of the State of Israel and the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. Financial aid may be available for U.S. and international students to attend the private college. Gratz College is located in Melrose Park, PA, which sits on the Philadelphia city line.
The best colleges in Pennsylvania feature undergraduate and graduate programs aligning with the state’s key industries, such as natural gas, life sciences, and plastics. Prospective students can visit the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development website to learn more about the state’s many employment opportunities.
Students can also explore different Pennsylvania careers by speaking with their college or university’s career counselors. These counselors can provide learners with information on growing fields throughout the state.
Pennsylvania online colleges offer many programs that set students up for career success. The following list outlines several common online bachelor’s programs in Pennsylvania.
Students may choose to learn online for multiple reasons, such as financial benefits. Some public online colleges charge in-state tuition to all online students, regardless of residency. Online students also save on many of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as housing and commuting costs.
The following table outlines the average tuition price for different types of Pennsylvania colleges.
Public Four-Year College | Private Four-Year College | Public Two-Year College | |
---|---|---|---|
In-State | $14,812 | $41,703 | $5,284 |
Out-of-State | $28,527 | N/A | $14,111 |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
A college degree plus professional experience prepares professionals for managerial roles. Managers in most fields oversee and train new hires, make decisions affecting their employer’s long-term success, and earn more than less senior employees. The following list outlines several management-related careers.
Financial managers prepare financial reports, advise senior managers, and develop new ways to increase profits. They also develop plans for long-term financial success. Many financial managers possess a bachelor’s degree and an MBA.
Companies selling goods or services hire sales managers to oversee one or more sales teams. These professionals research consumer preferences and set sales quotas. They may also collaborate with human resources to hire and train new employees.
Advertising, promotions, and marketing managers develop online, television, radio, and print advertisements. They work with clients to create advertising campaigns and negotiate contracts. These managers often attain this position after gaining many years of professional experience.
Computer and information systems managers determine their employer’s technology requirements, purchase new hardware and software, and set goals for other workers. Some managers specialize in IT security, protecting data and investigating breaches when they occur. Many of these professionals possess a graduate degree in computer science.
Also known as top executives, general and operations managers create policies affecting their company or organization. They appoint middle managers and department heads, collaborate with other executives, and approve contracts. The profession also involves cutting costs and creating initiatives to improve efficiency.
Career | Median Annual Salary | Projected Growth Rate (2018-2028) |
---|---|---|
Financial Managers | $153,350 | 16% |
Sales Managers | $150,210 | 5.1% |
Marketing Managers | $148,610 | 8.1% |
Computer and Information Systems Managers | $144,390 | 11.3% |
General and Operations Managers | $132,110 | 6.9% |
Source: BLS, ProjectionsCentral
Learners attending online colleges in Pennsylvania can take advantage of financial aid opportunities to help offset the cost of a degree. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines scholarship and grant opportunities for learners studying at online colleges in Pennsylvania.
Who Can Apply: The NIADA Foundation Scholarships support academically gifted high school seniors planning to attend college in the fall. Application materials include a 1,200-word essay and up to five recommendation letters.
Amount: $3,500
Who Can Apply: High school seniors living in select Pennsylvania counties can apply to this competitive scholarship. Application requirements include three recommendation letters and a commitment to major in forestry or a related topic.
Amount: $1,500
Who Can Apply: The Pennsylvania State Grant Program supports Pennsylvania residents with financial need. Applicants must submit FAFSA results. Other eligibility requirements include maintaining satisfactory academic progress and taking at least six credits per semester.
Amount: $500-$800
Who Can Apply: This scholarship program offers several awards to students enrolled in public Pennsylvania universities. Application requirements vary by scholarship.
Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Pennsylvania high school seniors can apply to the Road to Safety Scholarship Contest. Applicants must submit a poster, painting, video, or other advertisement detailing the risks involved with drunk or distracted driving.
Amount: $500-$1,000
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