Pennsylvania Colleges & Universities

Explore Pennsylvania's prestigious higher education landscape, from Ivy League institutions to outstanding public universities in the Keystone State.

Pennsylvania's Top Universities

University of Pennsylvania
Private Ivy League University

Prestigious Ivy League institution known for the Wharton School and outstanding research programs.

28,000+
Students
6%
Acceptance Rate

Key Highlights:

Ivy League prestige
Business school excellence
Research leadership
Philadelphia location
Pennsylvania State University
Public Research University

Major public research university with one of the largest alumni networks in the world.

100,000+
Students
56%
Acceptance Rate

Key Highlights:

Large alumni network
Strong athletics
Research opportunities
Diverse programs
Carnegie Mellon University
Private Research University

Elite private university renowned for computer science, engineering, and technology programs.

15,000+
Students
11%
Acceptance Rate

Key Highlights:

Technology leadership
Computer science excellence
Innovation focus
Industry partnerships
University of Pittsburgh
Public Research University

Major public research university with outstanding medical and health sciences programs.

34,000+
Students
67%
Acceptance Rate

Key Highlights:

Medical school excellence
Research opportunities
Urban campus
Strong academics

Types of Colleges in Pennsylvania

Ivy League & Elite Universities
8+

World-renowned institutions offering the highest level of academic excellence

Examples:

• University of Pennsylvania
• Carnegie Mellon
• Swarthmore College
• Haverford College
Public Universities
14

State institutions offering excellent education at affordable in-state tuition rates

Examples:

• Penn State
• University of Pittsburgh
• Temple University
• West Chester University
Liberal Arts Colleges
50+

Small, private institutions focusing on undergraduate education and close faculty relationships

Examples:

• Swarthmore College
• Haverford College
• Bryn Mawr College
• Lafayette College
Community Colleges
67

Two-year institutions offering affordable education and transfer pathways

Examples:

• Community College of Philadelphia
• Bucks County Community College
• Montgomery County Community College

Ready to Explore Pennsylvania Colleges?

Use CollegeCompass to find the perfect Pennsylvania college that matches your goals, interests, and budget.