Pennsylvania blends charming nature and rural areas with bustling cities and proximity to major economic centers. You might attend a Pennsylvania college for its world-class academics, small student-to-faculty ratio, or high acceptance rate.
Online colleges in Pennsylvania allow you to earn a degree on your 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 have exceptional faculty, strong academics, diverse degree options, and low tuition.
Top Online Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025
Price Check
The average four-year tuition and fees at public colleges in Pennsylvania was $16,329 as of the 2024-25 academic year. This makes PA one of the states that has seen more than a 10% drop in tuition rates within the last 5 years.
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Pennsylvania
The healthcare and engineering industries are two of Pennsylvania's fastest-growing sectors. Both sectors offer multiple fast-growing careers, including neurologists, marine engineers, and radiologists.
The state may require additional professionals in these industries due to the aging of baby boomers and state infrastructure. The chart below demonstrates the careers with the highest projected growth rate from 2023-2033.
| Job | Projected Growth (2023-2033) | Annual Mean Wage in PA (May 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Marine Engineers and Naval Architects | 45% | N/A |
| Neurologists | 42% | $166,250 |
| Atmospheric and Space Scientists | 35% | $91,970 |
| Executive Secretaries and Administrative Assistants | 34% | $71,720 |
| Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians | 33% | $70,370 |
| Sound Engineering Technicians | 32% | $55,450 |
| Special Education Teachers | 31% | $76,390 |
| Radiologists | 29% | $376,520 |
| Nurse Midwives | 26% | $109,510 |
| Obstetricians and Gynecologists | 26% | $323,590 |
Majors to Consider to Prepare for Pennsylvania's Job Market
Attendees can pursue popular Pennsylvania careers by studying relevant topics. The list of majors below may help teach students essential skills for fast-growing career paths.
Biology
Biology majors explore topics like anatomy, chemistry, and immunology. Graduates can use their knowledge to pursue MD degrees. Medical experts can specialize in multiple healthcare careers, including neurologist and obstetrician.Nursing
Nursing programs may teach general education, chemistry, and healthcare courses. Graduates may qualify for licensing exams to become registered nurses (RNs). Qualified RNs pursue various certifications based on their personal and professional interests.Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace engineering programs cover various aircraft designs, including fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and spacecraft. Attendees study engineering and technology principles, including aerodynamics, structural mechanics, and energy propulsion.Special Education
Enrollees learn about human development, instructional strategies, and assessment techniques for special education students. Learners may pursue programs that include hands-on experience with local students. Graduates may qualify for licensure, depending on the program.
What Is the Cost of College in Pennsylvania?
Going to school in Pennsylvania is more expensive than attending college in most other U.S. states. However, for Pennsylvania residents, it's still true that in-state public schools cost less than private or out-of-state institutions. You may be able to save even more by earning your degree online, allowing you the flexibility to work and earn money while going to school.
| Institution Type | Average Tuition and Required Fees in PA | Average Tuition and Required Fees in the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Public Four-Year (In-State) | $16,217 | $9,750 |
| Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) | $31,844 | $28,297 |
| Private Four-Year | $47,222 | $35,248 |
Scholarships & Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Pennsylvania
There are many specialized scholarships in Pennsylvania to consider. 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.
Lewis E. and Elizabeth W. Young Scholarships
This scholarship awards $500-$2,000 to undergraduate students in mining, metallurgical, petroleum engineering, or materials science. Enrollees must attend school in Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, or Virginia to qualify.
Pennsylvania Land Surveyors' Foundation Scholarship
Pennsylvania residents who enroll in land surveying majors can apply for this scholarship. The foundation chooses awardees based on their academic record, activities, and a statement. Qualified individuals must apply by April 30th.
Maguire Foundation Scholarships
Students at several eligible Pennsylvania colleges can use the Maguire Foundation's last-dollar scholarship for four years.
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 eligible postsecondary institutions. The award is $5,000 for the 2024-25 year.
Horace M. Thayer Scholarship Program
This $5,000 scholarship is available for Pennsylvania college students enrolled in programs related to arboriculture or urban forestry at an accredited college or university. Candidates must apply before April 15th.
Tuition Reciprocity Benefits for Out-of-State Students in Pennsylvania
Tuition reciprocity allows out-of-state enrollees to pay discounted tuition rates in certain states. Reciprocity agreements and participating states vary by program. Pennsylvania, as one of the few states that does not participate in reciprocity agreements, does not offer statewide benefits to out-of-state attendees. Students can still apply for financial aid, including scholarships, loans, and grants.
Frequently Asked Questions About 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. The Philadelphia-based Peirce College offers over 30 degrees and certificates 100% online, including 13 bachelor's degrees.
