Pennsylvania blends charming nature and rural areas with bustling cities and proximity to major economic centers. You might choose to attend a Pennsylvania college for its world-class academics, a small student-to-faculty ratio, or an online university's 100% acceptance rate.
Online colleges in Pennsylvania give you the flexibility to earn a degree on your own terms. Choosing an online college can help you launch a lucrative professional career without sacrificing family or work obligations.
The best online colleges in Pennsylvania boast exceptional faculty, strong academics, diverse degree paths, and low tuition.
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Students From PA Explore These Programs
These top, accredited schools offer a variety of online graduate degree programs. Figuring out where to apply? Consider one of these online Master's or PhD programs.
Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
Read About Our Methodology
#1 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
Seton Hill University
- Greensburg, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution located in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Seton Hill University ranks among the best online schools. At the accredited school, distance learners can enroll in two online bachelor's programs. The institution's distance learning courses currently experience an online enrollment of 725 students.
Getting to complete coursework from anywhere is just one benefit of an online degree's virtual classroom environment. Programs often let students meet any in-person requirements, such as an internship or clinical practicum, in their local area, and the school may even help arrange it. Online learners benefit from student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring. The institution provides graduates with many experiential learning opportunities in preparation for the workforce.
The school's students can earn their online degree at an affordable tuition rate. Qualified online students at the accredited institution may meet the criteria for financial aid, including federal aid programs and scholarships.
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
- Slippery Rock, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania receive the same education as on-campus students. Enrollees at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania, a public school, can earn one of 21 online degrees. Online learners can pursue some of the nation’s top-ranked programs at the institution. The school offers a comprehensive catalog of undergraduate and graduate programs. Students choose online learning for various reasons.
The benefits of online learning at the school include conveniently recorded lectures and financial aid options. Students transfer credits or an associate degree to accelerate degree completion. Degree-seekers strengthen their applications with optional test scores. One of the nation’s best schools for e-learning, the school has a 71% admission rate. The school is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a third-party accrediting body.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:
School Status: Public
Total Online Students Enrolled: 2,937
Programs Available Online: 21
Total Bachelor’s Degrees Online: 3
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,716/year in-state, $11,574/year out-of-state
Rate of Admission: 71%
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
Penn State World Campus
- University Park, PA
- 4 years
- Online
Penn State World Campus is a four-year public school located in Pennsylvania. The institution offers undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online. Students enroll in 207 online programs. Students receive a comprehensive education in the liberal arts and professional studies. Students can pursue degrees in a variety of majors.
Professors blend theoretical learning and practical experience such as internships and fieldwork. Online learners may need to complete limited on-campus residencies. Students do not need to visit the campus for most online degrees. Faculty integrate real-world experiences in the curriculum. Online students receive assistance such as tutoring in various subjects. Prospective students can expect a 76% acceptance rate at Penn State World Campus. Enrollees afford their degrees with competitive tuition rates and financial aid. The school charges the same tuition rate for nonresidents and residents.
The school holds regional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
Cairn University
- Langhorne, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, Cairn University offers a catalog of 52 affordable online programs. Working professionals can continue their careers as they earn four bachelor's programs and 12 online degrees. Busy professionals like online schools for flexible learning. E-learners receive a rigorous education through top-ranked academics at the school. Nontraditional learners complete a four-year bachelor’s degree faster with transfer credits. Students can pursue master’s programs in a variety of fields. Graduate programs may require students complete practicum or field experience in the community.
Students attend the school for affordability. The admissions department requires school transcripts. Cairn University maintains accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Cairn University Statistics:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 52
Total Bachelor’s Degrees Online: 4
Master’s Available Online: 12
Price of Tuition for Undergraduates: $28,328
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
DeSales University
- Center Valley, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students can pursue affordable degrees at DeSales University. The school, located in Pennsylvania, offers a comprehensive catalog of programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Degree-seekers receive preparation for entry-level jobs and career advancement. The school offers enrollment flexibility. Programs feature asynchronous curricula and prioritize flexibility for students. Students complete hybrid degrees with a blend of online and traditional face-to-face instruction. Online sessions can offer personalized learning.
Students afford their education with affordable tuition and generous financial aid.
DeSales University Fast Facts:
Status of School: Private
Online Enrollment: 1,240
Programs Available Online: 46
Total Bachelor’s Degrees Online: 11
Percentage of Degree-Seekers Receiving Aid: 100%
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Price Check
The average four-year tuition at a public college in Pennsylvania was $14,530 in 2021. That's nearly $5,000 more than the national average.
Cost of Living in Pennsylvania
The cost of living in Pennsylvania is lower than the national average, ranking 27th out of 50 states on the 2022 MERIC cost of living index. Of course, the cost of living varies by city, region, and lifestyle.
Bureau of Economic Analysis 2021 data shows that the average total personal expenditure in Pennsylvania was $49,040. The cost of living in Pennsylvania for students is even lower.
According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of room and board for Pennsylvania students is $11,510 for students at a public college and $14,430 for students at a private college. You can keep your total cost of living low by using student discounts, student transportation, campus health services, and sharing an apartment with roommates.
Average Cost of Living in Pennsylvania
| Cost of Living Category |
Average Price |
| Monthly Mortgage |
$1,569 |
| Monthly Rent |
$1,036 |
| Monthly Electricity Bill |
$117 |
| Monthly Grocery & Food Costs |
$278 |
| Annual Transportation Costs |
$4,470 |
| Annual Healthcare Costs |
$8,641 |
Source: SoFi
Pennsylvania Scholarships
Students in Pennsylvania have a vast array of specialized scholarships available to them. You can use scholarships to fund online education if the college is accredited and meets the scholarship's other requirements. Here are five scholarships to get you started.
- Association for Iron & Steel Technology Scholarships: This $12,000 scholarship is available to Pennsylvania students majoring in engineering, engineering technology, computer science, data science, safety, or industrial hygiene programs who express a strong interest in the iron and steel industry.
- Scott A. Gunder, MD, DCMS Presidential Scholarship: This $1,500 scholarship is for Pennsylvania residents entering their second year of medical school at Penn State College of Medicine.
- Maguire Foundation Scholarships: Students at a number of eligible Pennsylvania colleges can use the Maguire Foundation's last-dollar scholarship for four years, helping more Pennsylvania students graduate.
- Pennsylvania Chafee Education and Training Grant Program: Chafee Grants is a federally funded program for Pennsylvania undergraduate students aging out of foster care and attending an eligible postsecondary institution. For the 2023-24 year, the award is $5,000.
- Horace M. Thayer Scholarship Program: This $3,000 scholarship is available for Pennsylvania college students enrolled in a program related to the practice of arboriculture and urban forestry at an accredited college or university.
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Pennsylvania
Many of the fastest-growing jobs in Pennsylvania require specialized training to launch a career. An online degree can give you the practical education you need to enter these industries.
The list includes several jobs in medicine and information technology. Careers like statisticians, physician's assistants, and physical therapists assistance are not only fast-growing but pay well above the national average.
According to BLS data, the median pay for statisticians was $99,960 in 2022. Physician assistants made a median salary of $126,010, and epidemiologists earned a median of $78,520. Software developers earned a median of $124,200.
Fast-Growing Careers in Pennsylvania 2020-2030
| Job |
Projected Growth |
| Statisticians |
37% |
| Physical Therapist Assistants |
35% |
| Physician Assistants |
34% |
| Epidemiologists |
33% |
| Medical & Health Services Managers |
33% |
| Nurse Practitioners |
33% |
| Occupational Therapy Assistants |
33% |
| Information Security Analysts |
33% |
| Software Developers & QA Analysts |
28% |
| Speech-Language Pathologists |
27% |
Source: Pennsylvania Center for Workforce Information & Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Online Colleges
What is the cheapest online college in Pennsylvania?
According to the NCES, Peirce College is the cheapest online college in Pennsylvania, with an average annual net price of $9,621. Located in Philadelphia, Peirce College offers over 30 degrees and certificates 100% online, including 13 bachelor's degrees.
What is the easiest online college to get into in Pennsylvania?
Peirce College is the easiest college to get into in Pennsylvania. With a 100% acceptance rate, Peirce has several 100% online degree programs. You can choose from seven associate degrees, 13 bachelor's degrees, and nine master's degrees online.
How much does online college cost in Pennsylvania?
The average undergraduate tuition and fees for a public university in Pennsylvania is $14,530, according to the NCES. For out-of-state students, the average costs jump to $25,700.
How much it costs to attend an online college in Pennsylvania depends on the university. Usually, online tuition prices are comparable to attending on campus. However, at some colleges, it may be slightly less. Keep in mind that there are different financial aid opportunities and fees for online students.
Is online college free in Pennsylvania?
Online college in Pennsylvania isn't free. However, there are many free online learning resources and affordable online college options in Pennsylvania.
In addition, while attending online classes at an accredited college or university, you could be eligible for scholarships, grants, or government financial aid.
Do I need to be a resident of Pennsylvania to attend an online college in Pennsylvania?
You don't have to be a resident of Pennsylvania to attend Pennsylvania colleges online. However, many colleges charge higher out-of-state tuition, even for online students. You can compare tuition for online Pennsylvania colleges to find the best option for you.
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