Philadelphia is known for its rich history, arts, culture, and, of course, its vibrant academic scene. Home to a diverse range of institutions, the city offers something for every type of student. Whether you’re looking for a large research university or a small liberal arts college, Philadelphia has a variety of educational institutions that provide world-class education, unique programs, and a dynamic campus life. With its strong academic legacy, students from all over the world are drawn to the “City of Brotherly Love” to pursue their higher education.
Philadelphia’s college scene also benefits from the city’s central location on the East Coast, giving students easy access to career opportunities in New York, Washington D.C., and beyond. Additionally, the city’s rich history and cultural offerings provide an enriching backdrop for academic life. Many colleges are located in beautiful, historic neighborhoods, offering the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. In this article, we’ll explore the top 12 colleges in Philadelphia, highlighting their standout features, student reviews, and more. Whether you’re a prospective student or just curious about the higher education options in the city, this list will give you an inside look into some of the best schools Philadelphia has to offer.
1. University of Pennsylvania
Address: 3451 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Location: West Philadelphia
Phone: (215) 898-5000
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5)
Total Ratings: 3,500 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “The campus is stunning, and the academics are unmatched. It’s the Ivy League experience with a diverse and inclusive culture.”
- “Professors are approachable, and the opportunities for research are vast.”
2. Temple University
Address: 1801 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19122
Location: North Philadelphia
Phone: (215) 204-7000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)
Total Ratings: 4,000 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Temple has a great urban vibe, and the faculty is incredibly supportive. It’s a great school for hands-on learning.”
- “Diverse student body and lots of extracurriculars make Temple an exciting place to be.”
3. Drexel University
Address: 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Location: University City
Phone: (215) 895-2000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Total Ratings: 3,200 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Drexel’s co-op program is amazing. I’ve gained so much real-world experience during my time here.”
- “Great school with a strong focus on STEM fields and entrepreneurship.”
4. Saint Joseph’s University
Address: 5600 City Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Location: Wynnefield
Phone: (610) 660-1000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)
Total Ratings: 1,500 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “A great Jesuit school with strong values and a beautiful campus.”
- “The small class sizes make for an engaging learning experience, and the professors are deeply invested in student success.”
5. La Salle University
Address: 1900 W Olney Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19141
Location: Olney
Phone: (215) 951-1000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Total Ratings: 1,200 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “A close-knit community with supportive faculty. La Salle focuses on both academic excellence and personal growth.”
- “Great campus, lots of resources for students to succeed.”
6. Thomas Jefferson University
Address: 1020 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Location: Center City
Phone: (215) 955-6000
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5)
Total Ratings: 900 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “One of the best schools for healthcare and medical professions. The facilities are top-notch, and the clinical experience is invaluable.”
- “Excellent programs and well-connected to the city’s healthcare network.”
7. Community College of Philadelphia
Address: 1700 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Location: Fairmount
Phone: (215) 751-8000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Total Ratings: 2,300 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Affordable and accessible education. Great place to start your academic journey.”
- “Helpful faculty and staff who really care about the students.”
8. Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM)
Address: 4170 City Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19131
Location: Wynnefield Heights
Phone: (215) 871-6100
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5)
Total Ratings: 500 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “One of the best osteopathic medical schools in the country. The faculty and clinical training are outstanding.”
- “Rigorous programs, but the environment is very supportive.”
9. Moore College of Art & Design
Address: 1916 Race St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Location: Logan Square
Phone: (215) 965-4000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)
Total Ratings: 450 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “An amazing art school with lots of hands-on experience and a focus on creativity.”
- “The campus is beautiful, and the faculty members are experienced professionals in their fields.”
10. University of the Sciences in Philadelphia
Address: 600 S 43rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Location: University City
Phone: (215) 596-8800
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Total Ratings: 800 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Great focus on health sciences and research. The professors are knowledgeable and always willing to help.”
- “The campus is small, but it’s very community-oriented. Love it here.”
11. Chestnut Hill College
Address: 9601 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118
Location: Chestnut Hill
Phone: (215) 248-7000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Total Ratings: 300 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “A peaceful, scenic campus with small class sizes. The community is very tight-knit.”
- “It’s a small school, but it offers a strong liberal arts education with lots of student support.”
12. Holy Family University
Address: 9801 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19114
Location: Northeast Philadelphia
Phone: (215) 637-7700
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
Total Ratings: 250 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Great nursing program and supportive faculty. The campus is beautiful, too.”
- “Affordable tuition with quality education. The small campus makes it easy to connect with people.”
Final Thoughts on Philadelphia’s Colleges
Philadelphia’s colleges and universities offer a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for students. The city’s academic institutions are rich in history, innovative in their approach to education, and supportive in fostering student success. From Ivy League institutions like the University of Pennsylvania to specialized schools such as the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, there is truly something for every student in this city.
These schools offer not only a top-tier education but also access to a wealth of cultural experiences and professional opportunities. The interconnectedness between the academic and professional worlds makes Philadelphia an ideal place to pursue higher education. The city’s colleges are producing leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who are shaping the future, and their contributions to society are immeasurable. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, doctor, or engineer, there’s a place for you in Philadelphia’s rich academic tapestry.
