Rankings / By State

Best Bachelor's Programs in Pennsylvania

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$68,081

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

71%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$26,426

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing a bachelor's program in Pennsylvania can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Each of these programs shares a commitment to strong academic outcomes and student success, making them worth considering for anyone looking to further their education.

What sets these schools apart are their outcomes related to earnings, graduation rates, debt levels, and mobility. Students at the top institutions not only graduate at high rates but also enter the workforce with impressive earnings. The list below highlights schools that excel in these areas, giving you a clear view of where you might find the best return on your investment.

For instance, the University of Pennsylvania stands out with average earnings of $111,371, significantly higher than the state average of $70,576. In contrast, Haverford College, while prestigious, offers lower earnings at $79,966, but has a lower net price and debt. These differences illustrate how financial decisions can impact future earning potential and overall college experience.

Key Findings

The University of Pennsylvania offers average earnings of $111,371, the highest in this list.

Haverford College has a lower net price of $25,314 compared to Lafayette College's $34,433.

Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn $114,862 but incur an average debt of $21,750.

The average graduation rate across these programs is 63%, highlighting the disparity in student outcomes.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $68,081

Avg. graduation rate 71%

Avg. net price $26,426

Avg. median debt $24,596

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs in Pennsylvania ranked by outcomes and mobility

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA

Graduation97%

Earnings$111,371

Net Price$28,699

View full profile →

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA

Graduation93%

Earnings$114,862

Net Price$31,944

View full profile →

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA

Graduation93%

Earnings$80,257

Net Price$23,149

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

At the University of Pennsylvania, students benefit from a vibrant urban campus in Philadelphia, where a diverse community of 10,650 learners engage in rigorous academic pursuits. With a remarkable 97% graduation rate, the school fosters an environment that emphasizes both intellectual growth and social impact, enabling graduates to thrive in various fields.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is a hub for innovation and creativity, attracting students eager to make an impact in technology, arts, and business. Nestled in Pittsburgh, this school has a tight-knit community of 7,304 students, with a graduation rate of 93% that reflects its supportive academic environment, where collaboration and hands-on experiences thrive.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College stands out for its commitment to academic rigor and social justice, set in a picturesque campus located just outside Philadelphia. With a student body of 1,613 and a graduation rate of 93%, Swarthmore nurtures a collaborative atmosphere where students are encouraged to think critically and engage with pressing societal challenges.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College offers a unique liberal arts education in a close-knit setting, with only 1,430 students discovering the power of inquiry and collaboration. Known for its emphasis on academic integrity and social responsibility, Haverford fosters a community where students engage deeply with their studies, leading to a solid 90% graduation rate.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Lafayette College is a great choice for students who value a strong academic environment. Situated in Easton, PA, this private nonprofit school has a vibrant campus life and a commitment to undergraduate education, supporting students in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, PA, offers a unique blend of strong academics and vibrant campus life, attracting diverse students who are eager to engage with their studies. The 89% graduation rate highlights the institution's commitment to student success, providing ample resources to help individuals pursue their academic goals and prepare for future careers.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

Franklin and Marshall College

Lancaster, PA · 1,799 students · Private nonprofit

At Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA, students benefit from a close-knit community that encourages collaboration and personal development. With an 85% graduation rate, this school fosters an environment where students can thrive academically and socially, forming relationships that enrich their college experience.

28% accepted 85% graduate $76,124 earnings

Franklin's full profile

Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr, PA · 1,359 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Bryn Mawr, PA, this women’s college attracts students who are passionate about their education and eager to engage in a collaborative learning environment. With an 84% graduation rate, Bryn Mawr College emphasizes academic excellence and personal growth, preparing its students for a world of opportunities beyond the classroom.

29% accepted 84% graduate $75,217 earnings

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Villanova University shows strong commitment to student success. That figure reflects a supportive campus culture and dedicated faculty, which can make a significant difference during your academic journey.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#10

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

Bucknell University, nestled in Lewisburg, PA, offers a tight-knit community with a student body of just under 4,000. An 86% graduation rate indicates that students often find the support they need to excel academically and prepare for their careers.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

#11

Gettysburg College

Gettysburg, PA · 2,099 students · Private nonprofit

Gettysburg College is located in the historic town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and has a close-knit community of about 2,100 students. With an impressive 83% graduation rate, this private nonprofit institution emphasizes a liberal arts education, preparing students for various fields by fostering critical thinking and effective communication skills. The campus is rich in history, which creates a unique atmosphere for students to engage with both academics and their peers.

39% accepted 83% graduate $71,517 earnings

Gettysburg's full profile

#12

Muhlenberg College

Allentown, PA · 1,727 students · Private nonprofit

Muhlenberg College, nestled in Allentown, Pennsylvania, is home to around 1,727 students and prides itself on its vibrant campus culture. The college's commitment to the liberal arts is evident in its 81% graduation rate, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for life beyond college. With a strong emphasis on community and collaboration, Muhlenberg fosters an environment where students can explore their passions and discover new interests.

72% accepted 81% graduate $69,107 earnings

Muhlenberg's full profile

#13

Immaculata University

Immaculata, PA · 1,320 students · Private nonprofit

Immaculata University, located in Immaculata, Pennsylvania, has a close community of around 1,320 students. The college demonstrates a strong commitment to student success with a graduation rate of 68%. The liberal arts curriculum is designed to nurture intellectual curiosity and personal development, making it an inviting place for students who value a supportive and engaging academic environment.

86% accepted 68% graduate $75,701 earnings

Immaculata's full profile

#14

West Chester University of Pennsylvania

West Chester, PA · 14,164 students · Public

With a student body of over 14,000, West Chester University of Pennsylvania offers a diverse and dynamic educational experience. Graduates earn a median income of $61,258 within a decade of finishing their degree, which speaks to the university's commitment to preparing students for the workforce in a variety of fields.

78% accepted 70% graduate $61,258 earnings

Washington & Jefferson College

Washington, PA · 1,295 students · Private nonprofit

At Washington & Jefferson College, the average median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment are an impressive $67,918. With a welcoming acceptance rate of 81%, this small private college in Pennsylvania nurtures a close-knit community of about 1,295 students, where personalized education can flourish.

81% accepted 70% graduate $67,918 earnings

Washington's full profile

#16

Dickinson College

Carlisle, PA · 2,273 students · Private nonprofit

Dickinson College attracts students with its strong graduation rate of 82% and a rich academic tradition in a vibrant campus setting. With median earnings of $70,204 for graduates ten years post-graduation, students can expect solid returns on their investment in education, reflecting the school's emphasis on critical thinking and global awareness.

42% accepted 82% graduate $70,204 earnings

Dickinson's full profile

#17

Holy Family University

Philadelphia, PA · 2,464 students · Private nonprofit

Holy Family University, located in Philadelphia, has a strong commitment to community values and personalized education, making it a compelling choice for prospective students. With a graduation rate of 61% and median earnings of $62,235 ten years after graduation, it's clear that the university focuses on equipping students for real-world success, even if its graduation rate could improve.

71% accepted 61% graduate $62,235 earnings

Allegheny College

Meadville, PA · 1,156 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Meadville, Allegheny College is home to about 1,156 students and boasts a graduation rate of 70%. The college emphasizes experiential learning and community engagement, making it an attractive choice for students eager to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

55% accepted 70% graduate $62,069 earnings

Allegheny's full profile

#19

Lycoming College

Williamsport, PA · 996 students · Private nonprofit

Lycoming College, located in Williamsport, has a strong academic focus and a friendly environment, with a graduation rate of 60%. With just under 1,000 students, the college encourages close relationships between students and faculty, which can be crucial for personal and academic development.

74% accepted 60% graduate $56,210 earnings

Lycoming's full profile

#20

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

Millersville, PA · 5,728 students · Public

With a solid acceptance rate of 86%, Millersville University welcomes a diverse student body to its picturesque campus. The median earnings for graduates reach $55,246 after ten years, hinting at the opportunities that lie ahead for students who commit to their studies and engage with the community.

86% accepted 56% graduate $55,246 earnings

Millersville's full profile

#21

Ursinus College

Collegeville, PA · 1,491 students · Private nonprofit

Ursinus College in Collegeville is a private nonprofit institution where about 75% of students complete their degrees, showcasing a strong commitment to student success. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, preparing graduates for a variety of career paths while encouraging critical thinking and creativity.

92% accepted 75% graduate $73,721 earnings

Ursinus's full profile

#22

East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

East Stroudsburg, PA · 4,814 students · Public

East Stroudsburg University, located in the heart of Pennsylvania's scenic Poconos, has an acceptance rate of 92%, making it accessible to many aspiring students. While the graduation rate is lower at 44%, the school still provides a median earning of $56,148 for graduates after ten years, indicating that those who persevere can find rewarding careers.

92% accepted 44% graduate $56,148 earnings

La Salle University

Philadelphia, PA · 1,953 students · Private nonprofit

La Salle University in Philadelphia offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse student body of nearly 2,000. Known for its commitment to student success, the school has a graduation rate of 58%, which suggests many students find their path to completion and rewarding careers.

97% accepted 58% graduate $67,416 earnings

Seton Hill University

Greensburg, PA · 1,492 students · Private nonprofit

80% accepted 69% graduate $51,748 earnings

University of Scranton

Scranton, PA · 3,554 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Scranton is a vibrant private nonprofit institution with a strong focus on student success, reflected in its impressive 80% graduation rate. Graduates can expect to earn a median of $74,652 within a decade, making Scranton an attractive option for those aiming to launch successful careers in various fields.

81% accepted 80% graduate $74,652 earnings

University's full profile

#26

Robert Morris University

Moon Township, PA · 2,896 students · Private nonprofit

Robert Morris University serves 2,896 students and offers a practical approach to education with a focus on career readiness. The graduation rate of 66% suggests that students have the support they need to succeed, and the median earnings of $62,105 at 10 years post-graduation highlight the potential for financial success in various fields.

90% accepted 66% graduate $62,105 earnings

Robert's full profile

#27

Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus

Indiana, PA · 6,764 students · Public

91% accepted 54% graduate $51,019 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#28

Carlow University

Pittsburgh, PA · 1,348 students · Private nonprofit

With a solid acceptance rate of 87%, Carlow University in Pittsburgh welcomes a diverse range of students. The school's focus on personalized education in a supportive environment translates to a graduation rate of 58%, which reflects its commitment to student success and community engagement.

87% accepted 58% graduate $51,051 earnings

Carlow's full profile

#29

Juniata College

Huntingdon, PA · 1,191 students · Private nonprofit

79% accepted 71% graduate $56,918 earnings

Juniata's full profile

#30

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Kutztown, PA · 6,180 students · Public

91% accepted 54% graduate $53,775 earnings

Kutztown's full profile

#31

Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

Shippensburg, PA · 4,086 students · Public

87% accepted 54% graduate $56,351 earnings

Shippensburg's full profile

#32

Susquehanna University

Selinsgrove, PA · 2,163 students · Private nonprofit

81% accepted 78% graduate $61,723 earnings

Susquehanna's full profile

#33

Moravian University

Bethlehem, PA · 1,949 students · Private nonprofit

54% accepted 71% graduate $61,860 earnings

Moravian's full profile

#34

Saint Joseph's University - Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA · 4,948 students · Private nonprofit

Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia presents a welcoming environment with an 79% graduation rate, reflecting a focus on student achievement and community. With nearly 5,000 students, it offers a personalized experience where individual growth is prioritized.

89% accepted 79% graduate $86,881 earnings

Elizabethtown College

Elizabethtown, PA · 1,868 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 77% graduate $62,399 earnings

Elizabethtown's full profile

#36

Widener University

Chester, PA · 2,951 students · Private nonprofit

71% accepted 66% graduate $70,920 earnings

Widener's full profile

#37

Messiah University

Mechanicsburg, PA · 2,259 students · Private nonprofit

79% accepted 77% graduate $54,064 earnings

Messiah's full profile

#38

La Roche University

Pittsburgh, PA · 751 students · Private nonprofit

76% accepted 57% graduate $52,341 earnings

Chatham University

Pittsburgh, PA · 1,232 students · Private nonprofit

62% accepted 65% graduate $52,410 earnings

Chatham's full profile

#40

Waynesburg University

Waynesburg, PA · 1,009 students · Private nonprofit

90% accepted 63% graduate $58,537 earnings

Waynesburg's full profile

#41

Gannon University

Erie, PA · 2,365 students · Private nonprofit

74% accepted 68% graduate $58,845 earnings

Gannon's full profile

#42

King's College

Wilkes-Barre, PA · 1,484 students · Private nonprofit

93% accepted 60% graduate $59,498 earnings

King's's full profile

#43

Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Valley, PA · 1,067 students · Private nonprofit

90% accepted 58% graduate $67,145 earnings

Gwynedd's full profile

#44

Lebanon Valley College

Annville, PA · 1,684 students · Private nonprofit

84% accepted 69% graduate $62,621 earnings

Lebanon's full profile

#45

Albright College

Reading, PA · 1,217 students · Private nonprofit

76% accepted 47% graduate $58,700 earnings

Albright's full profile

#46

Temple University

Philadelphia, PA · 20,970 students · Public

80% accepted 75% graduate $63,727 earnings

Temple's full profile

#47

Lincoln University

Lincoln University, PA · 1,539 students · Public

66% accepted 48% graduate $43,167 earnings

Lincoln's full profile

#48

DeSales University

Center Valley, PA · 2,128 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 72% graduate $61,295 earnings

DeSales's full profile

#49

Alvernia University

Reading, PA · 2,152 students · Private nonprofit

58% accepted 57% graduate $55,055 earnings

Alvernia's full profile

#50

Thomas Jefferson University

Philadelphia, PA · 3,755 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Philadelphia, Thomas Jefferson University caters to those interested in health sciences and professional studies, with a student body of 3,755. The graduation rate of 68% is a good indicator of the university’s commitment to student success, and graduates enjoy a median salary of $77,449 after ten years, showcasing the strong return on investment for their education. The emphasis on real-world experience helps students feel prepared to enter the workforce with confidence.

81% accepted 68% graduate $77,449 earnings

Thomas's full profile

Comparing Carnegie Mellon University and Swarthmore College reveals a stark contrast in outcomes. Carnegie Mellon graduates earn an impressive $114,862, while Swarthmore graduates earn $80,257. However, Carnegie Mellon students have an average debt of $21,750 compared to Swarthmore's $17,500. This difference highlights the tradeoff between potential earnings and financial burden.

As you weigh these options, consider how each school's strengths align with your personal priorities. Factors like location, campus culture, and specific program offerings can significantly impact your college experience. Make a list of what matters most to you and see how these schools stack up against those criteria.

Ultimately, the data underscores the importance of choosing a college that aligns with your financial and professional goals. One family's decision to prioritize earning potential over debt could lead to greater financial security in the future. Every choice shapes the path to a stable life post-graduation.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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