A Thriving Ecosystem for Education & Childcare

Greater Philadelphia boasts an array of prestigious colleges and universities, offering diverse options for students. From bustling urban campuses to serene suburban settings, the region caters to a wide range of academic interests, making it an ideal place for higher education.

Private Institutions

The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) and Princeton University lead the area’s private schools. Both consistently rank in the top ten U.S. universities, excelling in business, economics, and other fields.

• UPenn is known for pioneering research, interdisciplinary programs, and global impact. It excels in business, medicine, and more, offering students a chance to shape the future with cutting-edge education.
• Drexel University, located near Center City, offers top-tier engineering, technology, and healthcare research programs. Its renowned co-op program allows students to gain practical work experience before graduating.
• Villanova University, La Salle University, Saint Joseph’s University, and Chestnut Hill College are prominent Catholic institutions in the region, fostering intellectual growth and ethical leadership.
• Swarthmore College, the #4 liberal arts college in the U.S., is celebrated for its academic rigor and affordability, consistently ranking as a top “best value” school.
• Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University is the largest private medical school in the U.S., blending patient care with cutting-edge education.

Public Institutions

• Temple University stands out for its diverse community and comprehensive academic offerings. Known for programs in business, arts, and education, it’s a key public research university in Philadelphia.
• The University of Delaware, located just outside of Wilmington, excels in chemical engineering, environmental science, and marine studies. Its chemical engineering program ranks #5 in the nation.
• Cheyney University is the oldest Historically Black College and University (HBCU), founded in 1837. It maintains its legacy as a renowned institution, ranking in the top 20 public schools in the country.
• Rowan University, situated in Glassboro, NJ, has experienced significant growth over the past decade, expanding its research capabilities and academic offerings, transitioning from a small regional college to a major research university.

Performing & Fine Arts Colleges

• The Curtis Institute of Music, in the heart of Philadelphia, is one of the world’s premier conservatories, offering rigorous training and unparalleled performance opportunities for future virtuoso musicians.
• The first and only women’s visual arts college in the U.S., Moore College of Art & Design, also located in Center City, Philadelphia, provides its students with numerous opportunities to engage with the region’s broader art community. In fact, Moore is the only art and design school to guarantee paid internships for every student in every major.
• The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA) is the oldest art museum and art school in the United States, housing a large collection of historic and contemporary American art. Their list of distinguished alumni and faculty includes the likes of artists such as Thomas Eakins, Mary Cassatt, and David Lynch.

Community Colleges & Technical Schools

• Bucks County Community College offers flexible programs across seven departments, providing opportunities for students to earn certificates or transfer to four-year colleges.
• Community College of Philadelphia, Philadelphia’s largest public institution, offers over 100 degree and certificate programs, with flexible scheduling options for full- and part-time students.
• Salem Community College in Southern New Jersey has the highest graduation rate in the region and offers 30+ programs. Eligible students benefit from the New Jersey Free Community College Grant.
• Delaware Technical Community College, with campuses in Stanton and Wilmington, prepares students for professional success through bachelor’s degree programs in 11 core fields.
• Williamson College of the Trades, located in Media, PA, is a unique institution, offering fully funded, tuition-free education to young men seeking training in trades such as carpentry, masonry, machine tool technology, horticulture, and more.