Philadelphia, PA is home to some of the nation’s most respected public and private colleges and universities. With strengths in healthcare, liberal arts, engineering, and business, the city offers a rich academic environment for students of all backgrounds.
Top Public Colleges & Universities in Philadelphia
Temple University – One of the largest public research universities in Pennsylvania, Temple is known for its strong programs in business, law, media, and health sciences, including a highly-ranked medical school.
Community College of Philadelphia – This two-year college offers affordable and flexible programs in the arts, sciences, healthcare, and business, serving as a stepping stone to four-year universities.
Pennsylvania State University – Abington Campus – Located just outside the city, this Penn State campus provides a high-quality education with bachelor’s degree programs in business, psychology, and science in a more intimate setting.
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania – The nation's oldest historically Black university, Cheyney offers a close-knit campus life with strong programs in education, business, and the liberal arts.
West Chester University (Philadelphia Site) – Though the main campus is in West Chester, its Philadelphia site brings accessible graduate and professional education in social work, nursing, and public health.
Top Private Colleges & Universities in Philadelphia
University of Pennsylvania – An Ivy League institution, UPenn is recognized globally for its schools in business (Wharton), law, medicine, and education. The university also emphasizes research and interdisciplinary learning.
Drexel University – Known for its co-op education program, Drexel combines classroom study with real-world experience in majors like engineering, business, computing, and the health sciences.
La Salle University – A Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, La Salle offers strong programs in nursing, business, communication, and education, focusing on service and leadership.
Saint Joseph's University – This private Jesuit university is noted for its programs in business, healthcare administration, education, and food marketing, combining academic excellence with ethical leadership.
Thomas Jefferson University – A leader in health sciences and design, Jefferson offers programs in medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, and architecture, emphasizing innovation and interdisciplinary research.