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Cheapest Computer Software and Media Applications Colleges in Pennsylvania

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

Pennsylvania's Computer Software and Media Applications programs show a dramatic cost spread, from Thiel College's $22,746 net price to Drexel University's $38,428. Pennsylvania College of Technology graduates earn $37,208 annually while carrying $27,970 in debt, reflecting the state's practical approach to tech education. Carnegie Mellon stands out with a 92.50% graduation rate but accepts just 11.30% of applicants. The state's tech sector, anchored by companies like Comcast and growing health tech firms, creates steady demand for software developers and digital media specialists across Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
11
Programs
$22,746 – $38,428
Net Price Range
$40,317
Avg. Program Earnings
67.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

11 Computer Software and Media Applications Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $22,746 $36,864 43.5% 82.3%
2 $25,747 $34,940 65.6% 93.8%
3 $26,084 $17,940 50.4%
4 $27,141 $38,310 58.5% 58.4%
5 $27,263 $44,510 58.7% 80.6%
6 $27,663 $56,402 68.9% 76.2%
7 $29,464 $28,550 64.5% 69.7%
8 $30,074 $21,524 84.3% 49.1%
9 $31,671 $63,829 92.5% 11.3%
10 $34,978 $47,146 75.5% 87.5%
11 $38,428 $60,663 77.1% 79.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $15,682 cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Private institutions like Drexel University charge significantly more than smaller colleges like Thiel College, which offers the lowest net price at $22,746. Public Pennsylvania College of Technology provides middle-ground affordability at $26,084 net cost.

How competitive are admissions for these programs?

Acceptance rates vary dramatically from Carnegie Mellon's highly selective 11.30% to Robert Morris University's 93.77%. Most schools accept between 70-85% of applicants, making them accessible options for students.

Does higher cost correlate with better graduation rates?

Carnegie Mellon justifies its premium cost with a 92.50% graduation rate, while University of Pittsburgh achieves 84.30% at a lower net price of $30,074. However, some affordable options like Thiel College show lower completion rates at 43.50%.

Where do graduates typically find employment in Pennsylvania?

Major employers include Comcast in Philadelphia, UPMC's health tech divisions, and pharmaceutical companies developing software solutions. Pittsburgh's growing tech scene and Philadelphia's financial sector both hire software developers regularly.

More Computer Software and Media Applications Rankings

Best Value Computer Software and Media Applications in Pennsylvania Computer Software and Media Applications Under $20,000 in Pennsylvania

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All Computer Software and Media Applications Programs Best Colleges in Pennsylvania Best Computer Software and Media Applications in Pennsylvania

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