Philadelphia's Educational Institutions: A Comprehensive List of 30 Colleges
Philadelphia, a vibrant city rich in history and culture, is also home to a diverse range of educational institutions. With over 30 nonprofit four-year public and private colleges and universities offering undergraduate and graduate programs, students have a wealth of options to choose from.
Public Universities
One of the largest public colleges in Philadelphia is Temple University, which educates approximately 33,196 students. Founded in 1884 as a night school, Temple University now offers 17 schools and colleges. Notable public universities in Philadelphia include Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, which ranks as the cheapest college in the city among public schools with an annual net price of $11,588, and Lincoln University, another public university offering affordable tuition with an annual net price of $15,502.
West Chester University of Pennsylvania, established in 1871 to train teachers, has since expanded to six colleges with 118 undergraduate programs, 90 graduate programs, and four doctoral degrees. In the 2024-25 school year, in-state students at West Chester University paid an average net price of $10,775, while non-resident learners paid an average of $22,599.
Private Universities
The University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League school founded in 1740, is the largest private college in Philadelphia with a total enrollment of 28,201 students. With a reputation for academic excellence, the University of Pennsylvania is one of the most selective colleges in the city. The average annual net price at the University of Pennsylvania is $26,017.
Villanova University, established in 1842, offers more than 60 bachelor's programs, 40 master's programs, and 14 doctoral programs. At Villanova University, students can expect to pay an annual net price of $34,837. Drexel University, founded in 1891, offers a unique cooperative education program that provides up to 19 months of work experience, and students can expect to pay an annual net price of $42,342.
Scholarships
Scholarships for students studying at colleges in Philadelphia are offered by various foundations, including local university-related foundations like the University of Pennsylvania's own scholarship programs, such as the Wharton School scholarships, and external foundations that support education.
The GSK Opportunity Scholarship offers renewable scholarships of up to $5,000 each year to students who show financial need. The Philadelphia Foundation fund awards 200 scholarships annually to students seeking additional aid for college education. The Elizabeth J. Harrison Scholarship covers tuition for Philadelphia residents who demonstrate financial need and submit required documents.
For detailed and specific scholarship opportunities, students should check with individual colleges in Philadelphia such as the University of Pennsylvania or Drexel University, and local Philadelphia educational foundations.
In the 2025-26 school year, in-state students at Temple University paid an average of $19,608, while out-of-state learners paid an average of $35,232 in tuition and fees. Holy Family University, a larger private college, charges an annual net price of $12,379. Pierce College ranks as the cheapest private college in Philadelphia with an annual net price of $9,621.
In conclusion, Philadelphia offers a variety of educational opportunities for students seeking higher education. From public universities like Temple and Cheyney to private institutions like Villanova and Drexel, there is a college to suit every student's needs and budget. With numerous scholarships available, students can further reduce the financial burden of their education.
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