Pennsylvania schools offer programs designed to let you complete your degree while working full-time.
You can also learn from two state flagships: the University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League school, and Pennsylvania State University, which has been in online education for over 20 years.
In our guide, you'll find the best schools to attend, whether you're from Pennsylvania or not, and the most in-demand careers to go into in the state.
Top Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
What Is the Cost of College in Pennsylvania?
The average in-state undergraduate tuition at schools on this list was $825 per credit. Only Temple University and Slippery Rock University charged out-of-state tuition, while the other three on our list charged the same for all students.
While the average is higher than the average per-credit cost for all undergraduate programs in 2022-23, financial aid through the FAFSA can offset that cost. At an online school, you also save on costs like transportation, housing, and meals compared to if you studied on campus. Also, check your school for additional scholarships; we'll list a couple for PA students down below.
Average In-State Undergraduate Cost for Colleges on Our List: $825 per credit
Average Per-Credit Cost for All Undergraduate Programs (2022-23): $489
Average Pennsylvania Tuition and Fees Cost Per Year (2022-23): $16,217
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Scholarships & Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers a state grant and other supplementary grants through the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA). To qualify for these grants, you must submit the FAFSA.
PA State Grant
Who is eligible: In-state students who have submitted the FAFSA and are enrolled at least half-time in a school approved by the PHEAA
Award amount: $6,000 maximum
PHEAA PA Ready to Succeed Scholarship Program
Who is eligible: In-state students who have completed at least one academic year (24 credits), who have submitted the FAFSA and PA State Grant, and whose family income does not exceed $200,000 per year
Award amount: Minimum $500; Up to $2,500 for full-time and $1,250 for part-time students
PHEAA Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program
Who is eligible: PA residents who have not earned a bachelor's degree, enrolled at least half-time in an associate or bachelor's degree program leading to an in-demand job at an approved PA institution
Students must choose from a program that leads to a Grow PA in-demand job and must commit to living and working in PA within that occupation for up to four years (however long a student received the grant)
Award amount: Up to $5,000 per year, up to four years
PHEAA PA Forward No-Essay Scholarship Sweepstakes
Who is eligible: In-state students who sign up for PHEAA's email list
Award amount: $2,500
Tuition Reciprocity Benefits for Out-of-State Students in Pennsylvania
While Pennsylvania doesn't have tuition reciprocity agreements, it does have the Grow PA Tuition Waiver program. This program allows out-of-state students to pay in-state tuition if they commit to working in a high-demand job in the state for the same number of years they attended college. If you break the terms of the agreement, such as failing to meet your work requirements, you'll be required to pay the tuition covered by the program. As of June 2026, Slippery Rock University is the only school on our list that qualifies for this program.
Majors to Consider to Prepare for Pennsylvania's Job Market
According to the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, the most in-demand careers include management, computer science, engineering, social work, counseling, teaching, medical fields, and the trades.
Biology
Biology majors explore topics like anatomy, chemistry, and immunology in their undergrad to commonly transition to master's and doctorate-level degrees. Some of the most in-demand health fields are veterinarians, physiologists, occupational and physical therapists, and physician assistants.
Nursing
Nursing instructors, practitioners, and assistants are all in demand. You can qualify for licensure to become a registered nurse (RN) through clinical nursing hours and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. You'll have the option to treat different patient demographics and focus on different medical units.
Engineering
Pennsylvania needs civil, industrial, and mechanical engineers — heavy STEM-related careers. Engineers are responsible for designing, creating, and building structures, machines, engines, and other systems. They can work across multiple disciplines, including energy, medicine, transportation, and city infrastructure.
Education
As a student pursuing education, you'll be able to specialize in teaching within subjects and age groups; some may focus on elementary, high school, or special education, and complete supervised hours at a local school during their bachelor's degree. You may also qualify for the TEACH Grant, which provides up to $4,000 per year for students pursuing an education degree who commit to teaching in a low-income school district for at least four years.
Psychology
Mental health counseling and social workers are in high demand in Pennsylvania. Some of the best majors you can choose as an undergraduate are a psychology or a social work major. However, to practice as a counselor or social worker, you need at least a master's degree and clinical experience to qualify for licensure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Pennsylvania
On our list, Slippery Rock University is the most affordable college, with in-state students paying just $330 per credit and out-of-state students paying only $10 more. SRU is the best on our list for students looking to finish their degree and maximize the amount of credits they can transfer in.
