Cheapest Literature Colleges in Pennsylvania

Swarthmore College delivers an astonishing financial paradox for Literature majors in Pennsylvania. Despite charging $62,412 in tuition, the college's net cost drops to just $18,686 through substantial aid packages. This creates an unusual situation where a highly selective private institution (6.93% acceptance rate) costs less than many state schools. Pennsylvania's media market, anchored by companies like Comcast and numerous regional publishers, creates steady demand for Literature graduates who can navigate both traditional and digital storytelling formats.

Programs

$17,034 – $30,074

Net Price Range

$33,687

Avg. Program Earnings

64.6%

Avg. Graduation Rate

9 Literature Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg Greensburg, Pennsylvania	$17,034	$14,630	39.6%	97.6%
2	Swarthmore College Swarthmore, Pennsylvania	$18,686	$62,412	94.1%	6.9%
3	University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown Johnstown, Pennsylvania	$18,952	$14,646	53.4%	97.4%
4	York College of Pennsylvania York, Pennsylvania	$19,685	$24,606	59.7%	95.6%
5	La Salle University Philadelphia, Pennsylvania	$21,409	$35,570	57.9%	94.3%
6	Clarks Summit University Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania	$21,873	$32,400	54.2%	65.2%
7	Gannon University Erie, Pennsylvania	$23,206	$37,951	69.5%	80.9%
8	Juniata College Huntingdon, Pennsylvania	$27,663	$56,402	68.9%	76.2%
9	University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania	$30,074	$21,524	84.3%	49.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the dramatic cost difference between public and private Literature programs?

Public schools like University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg charge $17,034 net cost with minimal aid variation, while private institutions use substantial financial aid to reduce costs. Swarthmore's $43,726 aid reduction demonstrates how elite colleges make programs accessible despite high sticker prices.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in Pennsylvania?

Higher-cost programs generally show better completion rates, with Swarthmore achieving 94.10% graduation compared to 39.60% at the lowest-cost option. However, mid-range schools like Gannon University balance affordability with solid 69.50% graduation rates at $23,206 net cost.

Does location within Pennsylvania affect Literature program accessibility?

Regional campuses offer the most affordable entry points, with Pitt-Greensburg and Pitt-Johnstown both under $19,000 annually. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh locations typically cost more but provide access to major media employers like Comcast and regional publishing houses.

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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.