Rankings / By State

Best Master's Programs in Pennsylvania

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

Schools Analyzed

$67,468

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

70%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$26,109

Avg. Net Price

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When considering graduate education in Pennsylvania, students have a wealth of options from reputable institutions. This list highlights 50 master's programs in the state, showcasing their graduate outcomes which can significantly influence career prospects. For instance, graduates from top programs can earn upwards of $114,000 annually.

What sets the strongest programs apart are their graduate earnings, completion rates, and manageable debt levels. The schools listed below offer not just education but also a pathway to a stable financial future, with average earnings of $70,576 across all programs. As you review the rankings, consider how each school's outcomes align with your personal and professional goals.

For example, the University of Pennsylvania leads with impressive earnings of $111,371 and a graduation rate of 97%. In contrast, Haverford College, while still a solid option, has a lower earning potential of $79,966 and a graduation rate of 90%. This difference highlights the trade-offs that come with different programs and emphasizes the importance of aligning your choice with your career aspirations.

Key Findings

University of Pennsylvania graduates earn $111,371 on average.

Carnegie Mellon University has a 93% graduation rate.

Haverford College's net price is $25,314, lower than many peers.

The average debt for graduates from these programs is $16,000.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $67,468

Avg. graduation rate 70%

Avg. net price $26,109

Avg. median debt $24,681

How We Ranked

Master's programs in Pennsylvania ranked by graduate outcomes

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 graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania clearly supports its students to succeed. Located in Philadelphia, this prestigious institution attracts a diverse student body, with 17% receiving Pell Grants, highlighting its commitment to accessibility for all backgrounds. The median earnings at 10 years post-graduation reach an impressive $111,371, suggesting that a degree from Penn can open significant doors in the job market.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University, nestled in Pittsburgh, has a 93% graduation rate, reflecting the support and resources available to its students. Known for its strong emphasis on technology and the arts, it attracts creative thinkers and innovators. The median earnings for graduates at 10 years sit at $114,862, indicating that students can expect strong financial returns on their education.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College, located in its namesake town, has a 93% graduation rate, reflecting the institution's dedication to student success. With a focus on a liberal arts education, it encourages students to think critically and engage deeply with their studies. Graduates earn a median of $80,257 after ten years, suggesting that a degree from Swarthmore is a wise investment for future earning potential.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College is a close-knit community with just 1,430 students, allowing for deep connections and personalized education. It boasts a 90% graduation rate, indicating a strong support system for students. With median earnings of $79,966 at 10 years, graduates can expect to enter the workforce with solid prospects while being part of a school that emphasizes social justice and critical thinking.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong graduation rate of 88%, Lafayette College in Easton, PA, cultivates a supportive environment for its 2,757 students. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment sit at an impressive $91,410, suggesting that alumni leave well-prepared for the job market and capable of achieving financial independence.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA, attracts students with its impressive 89% graduation rate and a vibrant campus life. Graduates enjoy a median income of $105,584 a decade after leaving, highlighting the university’s commitment to preparing students for high-earning careers in various fields.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

Franklin and Marshall College

Lancaster, PA · 1,799 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA, offers an intimate learning environment with just 1,799 students, contributing to an 85% graduation rate. The college encourages personalized attention from faculty, which helps students achieve a median income of $76,124 ten years post-graduation, reflecting the quality education they receive.

28% accepted 85% graduate $76,124 earnings

Franklin's full profile

Bryn Mawr College

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

Bryn Mawr College, located in Bryn Mawr, PA, focuses on empowering women through education, reflected in its 84% graduation rate. The college cultivates a rich academic culture, leading to median earnings of $75,217 for graduates a decade later, which is notable for a small institution with just 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 demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. This private nonprofit institution, located in Pennsylvania, is home to nearly 7,000 students who benefit from a close-knit campus culture and robust academic programs. The high median earnings of $100,423 at ten years post-graduation reflect the quality of education and career preparation students receive here.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#10

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

Bucknell University, with its picturesque Lewisburg campus, cultivates an intimate learning environment with about 3,900 students. The university honors a solid graduation rate of 86% and offers a personalized educational experience that helps students thrive academically and socially. Graduates earn a median income of $93,807 after ten years, reflecting the university's focus on preparing students for successful careers.

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, Pennsylvania, has a vibrant community of around 2,099 students. With an impressive 83% graduation rate, it reflects a commitment to student success and academic achievement. Graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $71,517 ten years post-graduation, showing that the investment in education here pays off significantly.

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, hosts about 1,727 students in a close-knit community. The college maintains an 81% graduation rate, indicating strong academic support and engagement. Graduates can look forward to a median earning of $69,107 after ten years, highlighting the value of a degree from Muhlenberg.

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, serves around 1,320 students in a nurturing environment. It boasts a graduation rate of 68%, suggesting that students receive the support they need to complete their degrees. Graduates can anticipate median earnings of $75,701 ten years after graduation, which points to strong outcomes for graduates in the job market.

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 is a vibrant public institution with a large student body of 14,164, providing a range of programs and activities. This university maintains a graduation rate of 70%, suggesting that while many students find success, some may need additional support to complete their degrees.

78% accepted 70% graduate $61,258 earnings

Washington & Jefferson College

Washington, PA · 1,295 students · Private nonprofit

With a student body of just 1,295, Washington & Jefferson College fosters a tight-knit community where personal attention is the norm. This environment likely contributes to its solid 70% graduation rate, suggesting that students can expect support in navigating their academic paths.

81% accepted 70% graduate $67,918 earnings

Washington's full profile

#16

Dickinson College

Carlisle, PA · 2,273 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Dickinson College combines a rich liberal arts education with a commitment to sustainability and global citizenship. The school’s graduation rate of 82% suggests that students are not only enrolling but also successfully completing their degrees, preparing them for the future ahead.

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 in Philadelphia has a smaller community of 2,464 students, fostering close connections between students and faculty. Although the graduation rate is at 61%, this suggests that the university provides unique challenges that may resonate with students seeking a more personalized educational experience.

71% accepted 61% graduate $62,235 earnings

Allegheny College

Meadville, PA · 1,156 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $62,069 a decade after graduation, Allegheny College in Meadville, PA, shows promising outcomes for its graduates. The college has a graduation rate of 70%, indicating that many students find success in completing their degrees and launching their careers in fields that pay well.

55% accepted 70% graduate $62,069 earnings

Allegheny's full profile

#19

Lycoming College

Williamsport, PA · 996 students · Private nonprofit

At Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA, students can expect a supportive and close-knit environment, with a graduation rate of 60%. The college’s focus on personalized education helps students succeed, backed by a median earning of $56,210 a decade after finishing their studies.

74% accepted 60% graduate $56,210 earnings

Lycoming's full profile

#20

Millersville University of Pennsylvania

Millersville, PA · 5,728 students · Public

Located in Millersville, PA, Millersville University attracts a diverse group of students, making it a vibrant community for learning and growth. With a larger student body of 5,728, it offers a variety of programs and resources, helping students to explore their interests and develop their careers.

86% accepted 56% graduate $55,246 earnings

Millersville's full profile

#21

Ursinus College

Collegeville, PA · 1,491 students · Private nonprofit

Ursinus College, nestled in Collegeville, PA, caters to a diverse student body of 1,491 and enjoys a graduation rate of 75%. This strong completion figure reflects the supportive academic environment, and the $73,721 median earnings for graduates ten years post-degree showcase the value of the education provided here.

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 is a welcoming option in a picturesque Pennsylvania town, catering to a diverse student body of 4,814. With an acceptance rate of 92%, it provides an inclusive environment that encourages students to pursue their educational goals while also building friendships along the way.

92% accepted 44% graduate $56,148 earnings

La Salle University

Philadelphia, PA · 1,953 students · Private nonprofit

La Salle University, nestled in Philadelphia, PA, attracts students with a median earning potential of $67,416 ten years after graduation. Despite a graduation rate of 58%, the college's urban setting provides ample opportunities for internships and networking, which can enhance the college experience and career prospects.

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, a private nonprofit institution, boasts a strong graduation rate of 80%, indicating a commitment to student success. With a thriving community of 3,554 students, it offers an enriching environment where learners can develop both academically and personally, preparing them for the workforce.

81% accepted 80% graduate $74,652 earnings

University's full profile

#26

Robert Morris University

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

With a 66% graduation rate, Robert Morris University supports nearly 2,900 students seeking to advance their education in a nurturing environment. The median earnings of $62,105 a decade after graduation suggest that graduates can expect a strong return on their investment, especially with the university's focus on practical, career-oriented programs.

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

Carlow University in Pittsburgh is a private nonprofit school with a nurturing atmosphere for its 1,348 students. The graduation rate of 58% indicates that a significant number of students succeed here, and while median earnings at $51,051 after ten years are slightly lower than some public universities, the supportive environment may appeal to those who thrive in a smaller setting.

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, located in Philadelphia, offers an inviting atmosphere for around 5,000 students. The university's graduation rate is 79%, and it emphasizes a holistic approach to education that prepares students for real-world challenges. Graduates can expect a median income of $86,881 after ten years, reflecting the university's focus on career readiness and strong alumni networks.

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

Manor College

Jenkintown, PA · 443 students · Private nonprofit

95% accepted 25% graduate $46,825 earnings

Albright College

Reading, PA · 1,217 students · Private nonprofit

76% accepted 47% graduate $58,700 earnings

Albright's full profile

#47

Temple University

Philadelphia, PA · 20,970 students · Public

80% accepted 75% graduate $63,727 earnings

Temple's full profile

#48

Lincoln University

Lincoln University, PA · 1,539 students · Public

66% accepted 48% graduate $43,167 earnings

Lincoln's full profile

#49

DeSales University

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

77% accepted 72% graduate $61,295 earnings

DeSales's full profile

#50

Alvernia University

Reading, PA · 2,152 students · Private nonprofit

58% accepted 57% graduate $55,055 earnings

Alvernia's full profile

Looking closely at the data reveals intriguing patterns that can guide your decision-making. For instance, Carnegie Mellon University has the highest average earnings at $114,862 but comes with a higher net price of $31,944. In contrast, Lafayette College offers a lower earning potential of $91,410 but a more affordable net price of $34,433. This difference illustrates the trade-off between immediate costs and long-term financial return.

As you sift through these 50 schools, think about what matters most to you. Is it essential to have a high earning potential, or do you prioritize a lower debt load? Reflect on your location preferences, specific program strengths, and campus culture. Align this data with your unique circumstances to identify which schools resonate with your aspirations.

Ultimately, the journey from college to a stable career is shaped by the choices we make today. For one family in Pennsylvania, selecting a program with a solid graduation rate and favorable debt-to-earnings ratio could mean the difference between financial stability and ongoing struggle. These rankings are more than numbers; they represent real lives and futures shaped by informed decisions.

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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