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Best Value Business/Commerce Colleges in Pennsylvania

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Pennsylvania's business programs reveal stark contrasts in both cost and career outcomes, with graduates earning between $33,993 and $58,673 annually. Drexel University tops the earnings chart at $58,673 but commands the highest net cost at $38,428, while University of Pittsburgh-Bradford offers the most affordable option at just $16,630. The University of Pittsburgh system dominates the value conversation across four campuses, each sharing identical graduate earnings of $37,424 but varying significantly in acceptance rates from 49% to 97%. Pennsylvania's business market supports these programs through major employers like Comcast in Philadelphia, UPMC's healthcare operations, and pharmaceutical giants that create steady demand for business graduates. Public universities generally deliver stronger value propositions, with in-state costs ranging from $14,620 to $22,082 compared to private institutions that can exceed $60,000 annually. The state's PA Grant program helps bridge affordability gaps for residents pursuing business degrees.
22
Programs
$16,630 – $38,428
Net Price Range
$42,306
Avg. Program Earnings
63.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

22 Business/Commerce, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $21,360 $50,096 $13,920
2 $16,630 $37,424 $14,620 43.4% 93.6%
3 $21,664 $48,041 $28,794 42.2% 84.9%
4 $17,034 $37,424 $14,630 39.6% 97.6%
5 $18,952 $37,424 $14,646 53.4% 97.4%
6 $25,544 $41,286 $28,185 71.4% 88.1%
7 $29,219 $46,738 $22,082 74.7% 79.7%
8 $38,428 $58,673 $60,663 77.1% 79.6%
9 $27,663 $36,848 $56,402 68.9% 76.2%
10 $30,074 $37,424 $21,524 84.3% 49.1%
11 $27,499 $33,993 $24,510 56.1% 82.4%
12 $28,329 $42,810 58.5% 59.0%
13 $30,470 $53,638 63.5% 87.7%
14 $25,157 $29,460 60.5% 75.6%
15 $20,356 $22,171 43.5% 75.6%
16 $30,465 $44,800 71.0% 77.2%
17 $19,600 $27,804 46.3% 80.0%
18 $31,229 $66,104 96.8% 6.5%
19 $33,549 $62,180 89.2% 37.0%
20 $21,409 $35,570 57.9% 94.3%
21 $17,216 $11,380 52.4% 91.9%
22 $34,978 $47,146 75.5% 87.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What accounts for the $24,798 difference in net costs between the most expensive and cheapest programs?

Drexel University's $38,428 net cost reflects its private status and Philadelphia location, while University of Pittsburgh-Bradford's $16,630 represents public funding advantages and lower regional costs. Private institutions like Washington & Jefferson College charge $25,544 compared to public alternatives averaging around $20,000. The University of Pittsburgh system demonstrates how public universities can offer consistent quality across multiple campuses while maintaining affordability for in-state students.

How do earnings compare between the most expensive and most affordable programs?

Drexel University justifies its $38,428 cost with the highest graduate earnings at $58,673, creating a strong return on investment despite the initial expense. University of Pittsburgh-Bradford graduates earn $37,424 annually at less than half the cost, offering solid value for budget-conscious students. The $24,680 earnings difference between these schools narrows when considering total educational investment and debt levels upon graduation.

Does graduation rate correlate with program cost in Pennsylvania business schools?

Higher-cost private institutions generally show stronger graduation rates, with Drexel at 77.1% and Washington & Jefferson at 71.4% leading the field. University of Pittsburgh's main campus achieves 84.3% despite moderate costs, proving that public universities can compete with private outcomes. However, some expensive programs like Juniata College show 68.9% graduation rates while charging $27,663, indicating cost alone doesn't guarantee success.

What role does location play in Pennsylvania business program value?

Philadelphia schools like Drexel and Temple benefit from proximity to major employers like Comcast and pharmaceutical companies, reflected in higher earnings potential. Pittsburgh campus programs leverage the city's healthcare and technology sectors, with UPMC providing internship and career opportunities. Regional campuses in Bradford and Greensburg offer lower costs but maintain connections to Pennsylvania's broader business network through the university system.

Is there a significant difference in acceptance rates across Pennsylvania business programs?

Acceptance rates vary dramatically from University of Pittsburgh's main campus at 49.14% to University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg at 97.60%, reflecting different selectivity standards. Most regional public campuses maintain acceptance rates above 90%, making business education accessible to a broad student population. Private institutions like Alvernia University show more selective 59% acceptance rates while maintaining moderate costs around $28,329.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.