A trip to Pennsylvania will reveal 100-plus colleges and universities scattered throughout the state, and many of these institutions of higher education are well known and their degrees highly sought-after.

The 2022 best colleges and universities in Pennsylvania have earned national distinction, especially among liberal arts schools.

Liberal arts schools of distinction

Swarthmore College – This private school tied for third place among national liberal arts colleges, and the college also offers an engineering program. Highly selective, Swarthmore has a fall acceptance rate of 11%. Less than 10% of the students on campus have cars. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $52,588.

Haverford College – Liberal arts college Haverford ranks 11th, and this school houses the most extensive collection of Quaker history although the school is no longer affiliated with the religious group. Haverford is recognized for its undergraduate teaching and is considered a best-value choice school. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $54,592.

Bryn Mawr College – This all-female school ranks #27 among similar liberal arts schools in the nation. The college offers unique opportunities for co-ed activities. This school promotes intellectual inquiry and has a high number of students who pursue their doctorates. Bryn Mawr is known for its innovation, best-value, and best undergraduate teaching. Only 38% of applicants are admitted to the school. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $52,360.

Bucknell University – Coming in at #36, Bucknell consists of three Colleges: arts and sciences, engineering, and management. The school encourages students to participate in an array of study-abroad options designed to broaden their horizons. This best-value school accepts 31% of applicants. Expect to pay approximately $56,092 per year in tuition and fees.

National university recognition

Robert Morris University – A private school, this university ranks #183 in the nation. The university has a recognized engineering program and business program. Other popular courses of study include nursing and accounting. The freshman retention rate is 82%, which is slightly above the national average. Robert Morris accepts four out of five applicants. Annual tuition and fees are $30,300.

Widener University – This school, which was once known as Pennsylvania Military College, now offers almost four dozen undergraduate programs, including a recognized engineering program and business program. The school values community service and challenging academics. Widener has a 65% acceptance rate. Annual tuition and fees cost $45,948.

With nationally recognized colleges and universities like these within your reach, attending college in the Keystone State could very well be your key to a big future.

 Click here to learn more about the ranking methodology that we used to compile this list.

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