Rankings / By State

Best Colleges in Pennsylvania

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

Schools Analyzed

$65,865

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

67%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$24,106

Avg. Net Price

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When considering higher education in Pennsylvania, students and families face a diverse array of choices among 50 institutions. Each of these schools shares a commitment to providing quality education, but they differ significantly in key outcomes like graduation rates and post-graduation earnings. For instance, the average earnings among graduates in this list stand at $68,681, highlighting the potential return on investment in a Pennsylvania degree.

The schools at the top of this list excel in metrics that matter most to prospective students: graduation rates, earnings potential, student debt, and overall completion rates. As you explore the data, you'll notice that top-performing institutions like the University of Pennsylvania and Carnegie Mellon University not only attract students but also help them succeed financially after graduation. Weighing these factors is essential when making such an important life decision.

Take, for example, the University of Pennsylvania and Haverford College. While both schools offer excellent education, their outcomes tell different stories. The University of Pennsylvania boasts a remarkable 97% graduation rate and an average earning of $111,371, while Haverford College, despite its strong academics, has a graduation rate of 90% and lower average earnings of $79,966. These details matter when considering which school aligns best with your goals and financial situation.

Key Findings

University of Pennsylvania graduates earn an average of $111,371, significantly higher than Haverford College's $79,966.

The graduation rate for the University of Pennsylvania is 97%, compared to 90% at Haverford College.

Carnegie Mellon students face a net price of $31,944, while Lafayette College's net price is $34,433.

The average graduation rate across all schools in this list is 63%, indicating a wide variance in student success.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $65,865

Avg. graduation rate 67%

Avg. net price $24,106

Avg. median debt $23,079

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in Pennsylvania

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 →

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Full Rankings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania is a hub of academic excellence and opportunity. Nestled in Philadelphia, it attracts a diverse student body eager to engage in its rigorous programs across multiple disciplines, from business to the liberal arts. The school's strong emphasis on research and practical application prepares students for successful careers 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, located in Pittsburgh, is renowned for its focus on innovation and technology. A graduation rate of 93% speaks to its supportive academic environment, while students engage in transformative experiences in fields like engineering, computer science, and the arts. The campus buzzes with collaboration, attracting individuals who are driven and passionate about making an impact.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a commitment to social responsibility, reflected in its 93% graduation rate. Located in a charming Pennsylvania suburb, the college attracts intellectually curious students who are eager to engage in discussions that challenge the status quo. This vibrant community values collaboration and critical thinking, making it a great fit for those who thrive in such an environment.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College is a small liberal arts institution with a tight-knit community, boasting a 90% graduation rate. Located in the picturesque town of Haverford, it emphasizes academic integrity and personal growth. The college is known for its Honor Code, which fosters a culture of trust and responsibility among students, making it ideal for those who value a collaborative learning environment.

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 in Easton, PA, cultivates an environment where students not only thrive academically but also prepare for successful careers. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment reach $91,410, reflecting the college's commitment to equipping students with the skills they need in the job market.

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, is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 89% and median earnings of $105,584 a decade after graduation, it offers a strong return on investment for students who are prepared to take on the challenges of a demanding educational environment.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

Bryn Mawr College

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

Bryn Mawr College is a small, close-knit institution with a focus on empowering women in higher education. With a graduation rate of 84% and median earnings of $75,217 after ten years, Bryn Mawr equips its students with the skills needed to excel in various professional fields while fostering a strong sense of community among its 1,359 students.

29% accepted 84% graduate $75,217 earnings

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Villanova University is known for its strong academic programs and supportive community. The university fosters student success, leading to impressive median earnings of $100,423 at the ten-year mark, reflecting the value of a Villanova degree in the job market.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

Franklin and Marshall College

Lancaster, PA · 1,799 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA, is a place where students can engage in a close-knit academic community with a strong focus on liberal arts. The college boasts an 85% graduation rate and median earnings of $76,124 ten years post-graduation, showing that graduates often find success in diverse fields.

28% accepted 85% graduate $76,124 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#10

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

Bucknell University, with an acceptance rate of 29%, attracts students who seek a rigorous academic experience in a tight-knit community. The university's commitment to liberal arts education is reflected in a graduation rate of 86% and median earnings of $93,807 a decade after graduation, placing Bucknell graduates in strong career positions.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

#11

Gettysburg College

Gettysburg, PA · 2,099 students · Private nonprofit

Gettysburg College, located in the historic town of Gettysburg, has a student body of just over 2,000. Known for its liberal arts education, the college boasts an 83% graduation rate and median earnings of $71,517 for graduates ten years later, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and student success.

39% accepted 83% graduate $71,517 earnings

Gettysburg's full profile

#12

Muhlenberg College

Allentown, PA · 1,727 students · Private nonprofit

Muhlenberg College in Allentown, PA, welcomes around 1,700 students and boasts an 81% graduation rate. The median earnings of $69,107 a decade after graduation indicate a strong return on investment for students who pursue degrees here, especially in areas like theater, music, and health sciences, which are quite popular among its diverse student body.

72% accepted 81% graduate $69,107 earnings

Muhlenberg's full profile

#13

Immaculata University

Immaculata, PA · 1,320 students · Private nonprofit

Immaculata University, a private nonprofit institution, is located in the charming town of Immaculata, Pennsylvania. Known for its supportive community, the university has a graduation rate of 68%, reflecting a commitment to student success and engagement. With an acceptance rate of 86%, it's an attractive choice for many students seeking a welcoming 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

West Chester University offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse student body of over 14,000. The university’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its 70% graduation rate, indicating that many students successfully complete their degrees and move on to rewarding careers.

78% accepted 70% graduate $61,258 earnings

Holy Family University

Philadelphia, PA · 2,464 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Holy Family University combines a tight-knit community with a commitment to student success. With a graduation rate of 61%, many students find a supportive environment that encourages personal and academic growth, setting the stage for lifelong connections and professional achievements.

71% accepted 61% graduate $62,235 earnings

Dickinson College

Carlisle, PA · 2,273 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Dickinson College is home to 2,273 students who thrive in a close-knit community. With a graduation rate of 82%, the college emphasizes a liberal arts education, which prepares students for a broad range of careers while encouraging critical thinking and global awareness.

42% accepted 82% graduate $70,204 earnings

Dickinson's full profile

#17

Washington & Jefferson College

Washington, PA · 1,295 students · Private nonprofit

Washington & Jefferson College, located in Washington, Pennsylvania, offers a personalized education to its 1,295 students. The college's approach blends a strong liberal arts curriculum with opportunities for hands-on learning, fostering a supportive environment as evidenced by its 70% graduation rate.

81% accepted 70% graduate $67,918 earnings

Washington's full profile

#18

Allegheny College

Meadville, PA · 1,156 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Meadville, Allegheny College creates a distinctive educational experience for its 1,156 students, emphasizing a liberal arts education that prepares them for a variety of careers. With a graduation rate of 70%, the college fosters a supportive environment that encourages academic achievement. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $62,069 after ten years, reflecting the college's commitment to producing employable graduates in various fields.

55% accepted 70% graduate $62,069 earnings

Allegheny's full profile

#19

Williamson College of the Trades

Media, PA · 322 students · Private nonprofit

Williamson College of the Trades in Media, PA, offers a unique, hands-on education focused on trades, preparing students for immediate employment in vital industries. With a 74% graduation rate and an impressive acceptance rate of 22%, this college caters to those who prefer practical skills over traditional academic paths.

22% accepted 74% graduate

Williamson's full profile

#20

Ursinus College

Collegeville, PA · 1,491 students · Private nonprofit

Ursinus College, located in Collegeville, PA, draws students looking for a private nonprofit education with strong academic programs. The impressive 75% graduation rate reflects a commitment to student success, backed by a vibrant campus culture that encourages engagement and growth.

92% accepted 75% graduate $73,721 earnings

Ursinus's full profile

#21

East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania

East Stroudsburg, PA · 4,814 students · Public

92% accepted 44% graduate $56,148 earnings

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

Millersville, PA · 5,728 students · Public

86% accepted 56% graduate $55,246 earnings

Millersville's full profile

#23

Lycoming College

Williamsport, PA · 996 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 60%, Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA, helps students not just earn a degree but also step confidently into their careers. The median earnings for graduates 10 years out stand at $56,210, suggesting a solid return on investment for those who choose to study here. The college's supportive environment is reflected in its 38% Pell Grant recipients, indicating a commitment to accessibility for students from diverse financial backgrounds.

74% accepted 60% graduate $56,210 earnings

Lycoming's full profile

#24

University of Scranton

Scranton, PA · 3,554 students · Private nonprofit

University of Scranton prides itself on its strong graduation rate of 80%, which reflects its supportive academic environment. With median earnings of $74,652 after ten years, students can expect a solid return on their investment in education, equipping them for successful careers in various fields.

81% accepted 80% graduate $74,652 earnings

University's full profile

#25

Seton Hill University

Greensburg, PA · 1,492 students · Private nonprofit

80% accepted 69% graduate $51,748 earnings

La Salle University

Philadelphia, PA · 1,953 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Philadelphia, La Salle University is a private nonprofit institution with a welcoming acceptance rate of 97%. With nearly 2,000 students, it creates an engaging campus environment where individuals can thrive both academically and socially. The university's focus on preparing students for the workforce is reflected in its median earnings of $67,416 at ten years post-graduation, which suggests that graduates are finding their footing in competitive job markets.

97% accepted 58% graduate $67,416 earnings

Juniata College

Huntingdon, PA · 1,191 students · Private nonprofit

79% accepted 71% graduate $56,918 earnings

Juniata's full profile

#28

Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

Shippensburg, PA · 4,086 students · Public

87% accepted 54% graduate $56,351 earnings

Shippensburg's full profile

#29

Reading Area Community College

Reading, PA · 3,703 students · Public

Reading Area Community College is a community hub that serves over 3,700 students in Reading, PA. With a diverse student body and a focus on accessible education, it aims to equip students with practical skills for the job market.

30% graduate $39,082 earnings

Reading's full profile

#30

Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus

Indiana, PA · 6,764 students · Public

91% accepted 54% graduate $51,019 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#31

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Kutztown, PA · 6,180 students · Public

91% accepted 54% graduate $53,775 earnings

Kutztown's full profile

#32

Carlow University

Pittsburgh, PA · 1,348 students · Private nonprofit

87% accepted 58% graduate $51,051 earnings

Carlow's full profile

#33

Susquehanna University

Selinsgrove, PA · 2,163 students · Private nonprofit

81% accepted 78% graduate $61,723 earnings

Susquehanna's full profile

#34

Bucks County Community College

Newtown, PA · 5,289 students · Public

Bucks County Community College has a vibrant community atmosphere, attracting over 5,200 students in Newtown, PA. This college emphasizes accessibility and affordability, making higher education attainable for many in the region, despite a graduation rate of just 30%.

30% graduate $47,324 earnings

Moravian University

Bethlehem, PA · 1,949 students · Private nonprofit

54% accepted 71% graduate $61,860 earnings

Moravian'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

Robert Morris University

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

With a vibrant campus community of nearly 2,900 students, Robert Morris University in Moon Township, PA, offers a supportive environment for those seeking a private college experience. The university's median earnings of $62,105 a decade after graduation suggest that students often find solid job opportunities upon entering the workforce.

90% accepted 66% graduate $62,105 earnings

Robert's full profile

#38

Elizabethtown College

Elizabethtown, PA · 1,868 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 77% graduate $62,399 earnings

Elizabethtown's full profile

#39

Johnson College

Scranton, PA · 590 students · Private nonprofit

98% accepted 51% graduate $55,194 earnings

Johnson'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

Gwynedd Mercy University

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

90% accepted 58% graduate $67,145 earnings

Gwynedd's full profile

#42

Messiah University

Mechanicsburg, PA · 2,259 students · Private nonprofit

79% accepted 77% graduate $54,064 earnings

Messiah's full profile

#43

King's College

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

93% accepted 60% graduate $59,498 earnings

King's's full profile

#44

Chatham University

Pittsburgh, PA · 1,232 students · Private nonprofit

62% accepted 65% graduate $52,410 earnings

Chatham's full profile

#45

Manor College

Jenkintown, PA · 443 students · Private nonprofit

95% accepted 25% graduate $46,825 earnings

Gannon University

Erie, PA · 2,365 students · Private nonprofit

74% accepted 68% graduate $58,845 earnings

Gannon's full profile

#47

La Roche University

Pittsburgh, PA · 751 students · Private nonprofit

76% accepted 57% graduate $52,341 earnings

Lebanon Valley College

Annville, PA · 1,684 students · Private nonprofit

84% accepted 69% graduate $62,621 earnings

Lebanon's full profile

#49

Lehigh Carbon Community College

Schnecksville, PA · 4,148 students · Public

29% graduate $42,436 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#50

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College

Johnstown, PA · 788 students · Public

With 788 students, Pennsylvania Highlands Community College provides a close-knit learning environment in Johnstown, PA. The school’s 39% graduation rate indicates a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive, particularly those who benefit from smaller classes and personalized attention.

39% graduate $38,752 earnings

Pennsylvania's full profile

The data reveals a clear disparity between top performers and others in Pennsylvania. For instance, Carnegie Mellon University stands out with an average earning of $114,862 and a graduation rate of 93%. In contrast, Lafayette College's graduates earn $91,410, but they have a lower graduation rate of 88%. This shows that while both schools are respectable, students at Carnegie Mellon may have better financial outcomes due to their higher completion rates.

After reviewing these 50 schools, it’s crucial to align this data with your personal priorities. Consider factors such as location, program fit, campus atmosphere, and your financial situation. A school with a higher net price might be justified if it leads to significantly higher earnings, but it’s essential to weigh that against your family's budget and your career aspirations.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life hinges on making informed choices. Families must consider how the data reflects broader trends in higher education and employment. Choosing the right college can set a student on a trajectory toward financial stability and personal fulfillment. One decision can shape a future, and understanding these numbers can help in making the best choice for your family.

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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