Best Universities in Philadelphia, PA
Looking for universities in Philadelphia? Below you'll find 10 local options with their address, phone number, website and opening hours, plus practical advice on choosing the right one.
What they do: Colleges and universities offering undergraduate, graduate and continuing education programs.
This guide lists 10 universities in and around Philadelphia, spread across 7 ZIP codes. 5 have a phone number you can call directly from this page, 10 link to their own website. Listings are organized so you can compare them at a glance and contact them directly.
Top 10 Universities in Philadelphia
Listings are shown in no paid order: no business can pay to appear or to rank higher on this page.
1 Community College of Philadelphia - West Regional Center
- Address 4725 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19139
- Phone (267) 299-5850
- Website ccp.edu
2 Walnut Hill College
- Address 4207 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
- Phone (215) 222-4200
- Website walnuthillcollege.edu
3 University of the Arts
- Address 320 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
- Phone (215) 717-6000
- Website uarts.edu
4 Thomas Jefferson University East Falls Campus
- Address 4201 Henry Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19144
- Phone (215) 951-2700
- Website jefferson.edu
5 Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Address 4170 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131
- Phone (215) 871-6100
- Website pcom.edu
6 Lancaster Bible College | Capital Seminary & Graduate School
- Address 2001 West Lehigh Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132
- Website lbc.edu
7 Philadelphia Job Corps Life Science Institute
- Address 2810 South 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145
- Website philadelphia.jobcorps.gov
8 Community College of Philadelphia Career & Advanced Technology Center
- Address 4750 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19139
- Website ccp.edu
9 JNA Institute of Culinary Arts
- Address 1212 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Website culinaryarts.edu
10 Curtis Institute of Music
- Address 1726 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Website curtis.edu
How to choose universities in Philadelphia
- Check accreditation or state approval. Career schools in Pennsylvania are licensed by the State Board of Private Licensed Schools.
- Ask about class sizes, schedules and whether evening or weekend options exist.
- Get the total cost in writing, including fees, books and supplies.
- Ask about completion and job-placement rates for career programs.
- Visit or sit in on a class before you enroll.
Local tips for Philadelphia
Philadelphia has its own licensing rules that go beyond state law: the city's Department of Licenses and Inspections (L+I) issues contractor licenses, permits and trade licenses, so plumbers, electricians and contractors working in the city need an L+I license on top of any state registration.
SEPTA's subway, trolley and bus network covers most of the city, so check whether a business is near a Market-Frankford or Broad Street Line station if you don't drive. Street parking in Center City is limited and enforced by the Philadelphia Parking Authority.
Philadelphia is in Philadelphia County, and local phone numbers use the 215, 267 and 445 area codes. Popular areas include Center City, Old City, Fishtown, Northern Liberties, South Philly, University City, Manayunk, Chestnut Hill.
Frequently asked questions
Which areas of Philadelphia do these universities cover?
The universities on this list are located in ZIP codes 19102, 19104, 19131, 19132, 19139, 19144, 19145. Many businesses also serve nearby neighborhoods and suburbs, so ask when you call.
How much do classes cost in Philadelphia?
It depends on the program: community classes may cost a few hundred dollars, while certificate and career programs can cost several thousand. Ask about financial aid, payment plans and PA grants.
Is financial aid available?
Many accredited programs qualify for federal aid (FAFSA) and Pennsylvania's PHEAA state grants. Adult education and GED classes are often free.
How do I check that a school is legitimate?
Look it up with the Pennsylvania Department of Education or the State Board of Private Licensed Schools, and check its accreditor on the US Department of Education's database.
Universities in other Pennsylvania cities
More education guides in Philadelphia
Business data for this page comes from © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), reviewed and formatted by Pennsylvania Connection.
Information is collected from public sources and may change. Please confirm hours, prices and availability directly with each business. Business owner? Ask us to update your listing.