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Best Online Colleges in Pennsylvania

📅 Jan 31, 2025  •  🕒 3 min read


Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in PA

  • What is the cheapest online college in Pennsylvania?
  • Peirce College is the most affordable, with an average annual net price of $9,621.
  • Peirce offers 30+ online programs, including 13 bachelor's degrees.

  • What is the easiest online college to get into in Pennsylvania?

  • Peirce College also ranks as the easiest to get into with a 100% acceptance rate.
  • Programs include 7 associate's, 13 bachelor's, and 9 master's degrees.

  • How much does online college cost in Pennsylvania?

  • Public university average (2022-2023): $16,217 per year for in-state students.
  • Out-of-state students: Average jumps to $31,844.

  • Is online college free in Pennsylvania?

  • Online college isn't free, but you can apply for scholarships, grants, and financial aid.
  • Tuition-free options exist for eligible programs and students.

  • Do I need to be a resident of Pennsylvania to attend online colleges in PA?

  • No, out-of-state students can enroll in PA online programs.
  • However, many schools charge higher out-of-state tuition for non-residents.

Top Online Colleges in Pennsylvania for 2024

  • Peirce College
  • Average Annual Net Price: $9,621 (most affordable).
  • Programs: 30+ degrees and certificates, 100% online.
  • Highlights: Offers associate's, bachelor's, and master's programs with flexible learning.

  • Penn State World Campus

  • Programs: 207 online degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels.
  • Cost: Same tuition rates for residents and non-residents.
  • Acceptance Rate: 76%.
  • Perks: Regional accreditation and access to high-quality faculty.

  • Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

  • Programs: 21 online degrees, including 3 bachelor's programs.
  • Cost:
    • In-state tuition: $7,716/year.
    • Out-of-state tuition: $11,574/year.
  • Admission Rate: 71%.

  • Seton Hill University

  • Programs: Offers 2 online bachelor's programs.
  • Highlights: Flexible virtual classroom with student services like tutoring and career counseling.
  • Cost: Affordable tuition with financial aid available.

  • DeSales University

  • Programs: 46 online programs, including 11 bachelor's degrees.
  • Highlights: Personalized hybrid options and asynchronous learning.
  • Financial Aid: 100% of degree-seekers receive financial assistance.

  • Cairn University

  • Programs: 52 online degrees:
    • Bachelor's: 4 programs
    • Master's: 12 programs
  • Tuition: $28,328 for undergraduates.
  • Focus: Flexible and career-focused online learning.

10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Pennsylvania

| Job Title | Growth Rate (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage |
|----------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------|----------------------------|
| Marine Engineers and Naval Architects | 45% | $108,110 |
| Neurologists | 42% | $152,600 |
| Atmospheric and Space Scientists | 35% | $87,840 |
| Executive Secretaries and Administrative Assistants | 34% | $68,120 |
| Aerospace Engineering Technicians | 33% | $64,690 |
| Sound Engineering Technicians | 32% | $53,720 |
| Special Education Teachers | 31% | $76,420 |
| Radiologists | 29% | $347,590 |
| Nurse Midwives | 26% | $121,410 |
| Obstetricians and Gynecologists | 26% | $314,610 |


Cost of Living in Pennsylvania

| Category | Average Monthly Cost |
|---------------------------|--------------------------|
| Housing | $1,000 |
| Groceries & Food | $370 |
| Transportation | $809 |
| Medical Care | $292 |

  • Tip: Online students can save money on housing and transportation by studying from home.

Scholarships for Online Colleges in Pennsylvania

  • Chafee Grants
  • Award: Up to $5,000.
  • Eligibility: Undergraduates aging out of foster care.

  • Maguire Foundation Scholarship

  • Coverage: Last-dollar scholarship for students at eligible PA schools.

  • Western Pennsylvania Engineering Scholarship

  • Award: $500-$2,000.
  • Eligibility: Students in engineering and materials science majors.

  • Pennsylvania Land Surveyors Foundation Scholarship

  • Award: Varies.
  • Eligibility: Students pursuing land surveying programs.

  • Pennsylvania Urban Forestry Scholarship

  • Award: Up to $5,000.
  • Eligibility: Students in arboriculture or urban forestry.

Why Choose Online Colleges in Pennsylvania?

  • Affordability: Schools like Peirce College offer low tuition options.
  • Flexibility: Programs cater to working professionals with asynchronous learning.
  • Quality Education: Institutions like Penn State World Campus offer world-class programs.
  • Career Opportunities: Pennsylvania boasts fast-growing industries in healthcare and engineering.

Explore these affordable and flexible options to launch or advance your career with a Pennsylvania online degree!


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