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Pennsylvania's 17 Division II colleges show a clear divide between affordable state schools and higher-cost private institutions, with net prices spanning from Holy Family University's $12,251 to Thomas Jefferson University's $28,163. West Chester University leads with 14,067 students and strong graduate outcomes, while smaller schools like University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown maintain nearly open admission at 97.4% acceptance. These schools serve Pennsylvania's major employment sectors well, with graduates earning between $43,167 and $77,449 annually. The state's healthcare giants like UPMC and growing tech sector create natural pathways for graduates from programs in nursing, business, and education. State universities dominate the market, offering accessible education with most schools accepting over 87% of applicants. Regional campuses like UPitt-Johnstown provide university-level education in smaller communities, while private options like Thomas Jefferson focus on health sciences training. PA State Grant funding helps reduce costs at participating institutions, making these schools particularly attractive for in-state students seeking quality education without the premium of Division I athletics.
17
Schools
$20,763
Avg. Net Price
$55,622
Avg. Earnings
58.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

NCAA Division II Colleges in Pennsylvania

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 14,067 $22,673 69.8% 87.9%
2 6,728 $19,524 65.9% 74.3%
3 1,934 $18,952 53.4% 97.4%
4 3,708 $28,163 68.2% 88.9%
5 5,610 $20,231 54.4% 92.4%
6 4,179 $23,553 51.6% 87.8%
7 2,298 $12,251 60.4% 77.4%
8 2,467 $23,206 69.5% 80.9%
9 6,348 $21,205 54.1% 96.1%
10 9,309 $18,877 53.0% 94.0%
11 6,893 $17,216 52.4% 91.9%
12 1,712 $12,912 52.1% 80.6%
13 4,611 $15,089 43.8% 93.6%
14 1,581 $22,558 71.0% 78.3%
15 8,134 $19,352 51.0% 93.6%
16 2,217 $27,263 58.7% 80.6%
17 931 $29,944 56.1% 98.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most affordable Division II option in Pennsylvania?

Holy Family University offers the lowest net price at $12,251 annually. This Philadelphia-based Catholic university enrolls 2,298 students with a 60.4% graduation rate and 77.4% acceptance rate. Graduates earn a median of $62,235, making it both affordable and financially rewarding.

How competitive are Pennsylvania Division II schools for admission?

Most Pennsylvania Division II schools are quite accessible, with 13 of 17 accepting over 87% of applicants. University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown leads with 97.4% acceptance, while Slippery Rock is most selective at 74.3%. The average acceptance rate across all schools is 88.2%.

Where can students find the largest Division II programs?

West Chester University dominates with 14,067 students, followed by Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania at 9,309. These large state universities offer extensive program options and campus resources, while maintaining the more personal Division II athletic experience and smaller class sizes than Division I institutions.

What earnings can graduates expect from these schools?

Thomas Jefferson University graduates earn the highest median salary at $77,449, reflecting its focus on health sciences. The overall range spans $43,167 to $77,449, with most schools producing graduates earning between $51,000-$62,000. Healthcare and business programs typically yield higher starting salaries.

Is there a significant difference in graduation rates between schools?

Graduation rates vary considerably from 43.8% at East Stroudsburg University to 71.0% at Seton Hill University. Private schools generally outperform state institutions, with Seton Hill, Gannon, and Thomas Jefferson all exceeding 68%. The average graduation rate across all 17 schools is 57.4%.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.