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Cheapest Physical Sciences Colleges in Pennsylvania

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

Swarthmore College delivers the nation's most affordable Physical Sciences, Other education at just $18,686 net cost, despite charging $62,412 in sticker price. This elite liberal arts institution graduates 94% of its students while accepting fewer than 7% of applicants. Pennsylvania's growing pharmaceutical sector, anchored by companies like GlaxoSmithKline and Merck, creates strong demand for physical science graduates who can bridge traditional disciplines with emerging biotechnology applications.
5
Programs
$18,686 – $31,671
Net Price Range
78.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Physical Sciences, Other Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,686 $62,412 94.1% 6.9%
2 $22,909 $44,934 58.2% 84.3%
3 $26,539 $57,400 74.1% 76.7%
4 $29,219 $22,082 74.7% 79.7%
5 $31,671 $63,829 92.5% 11.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Swarthmore achieve such low net costs for physical sciences students?

Swarthmore meets 100% of demonstrated financial need through generous aid packages that reduce the $62,412 sticker price to an average of $18,686. The college's $2.1 billion endowment allows it to provide substantial grants rather than loans to qualifying students.

What makes Carnegie Mellon worth its $31,671 net cost for physical sciences?

Carnegie Mellon's 92.5% graduation rate reflects its rigorous academic standards and strong industry connections in Pittsburgh's tech corridor. The university's proximity to major research institutions and pharmaceutical companies provides strong internship and career opportunities that justify the higher investment.

Does Temple University offer good value as the only public option?

Temple provides solid value at $29,219 net cost with a 74.7% graduation rate and nearly 80% acceptance rate. The Philadelphia location offers access to major healthcare systems like UPMC and pharmaceutical research facilities throughout the region.

More Physical Sciences, Other Rankings

Best Value Physical Sciences, Other in Pennsylvania Physical Sciences, Other Under $20,000 in Pennsylvania

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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.