Best Associate Programs in Pennsylvania

Students often begin their four-year education with an associate degree before transferring to a four-year institution. Aspiring professionals can also advance their careers with an associate degree. There can be a lot of savings in Pennsylvania when you pursue an associate degree rather than a four-year program. Graduation typically takes two years or less.

In Pennsylvania, associate degree-holders often earn more than those with only a high school diploma or GED. State workers earn a median salary of $44,900 per year, or $21.59 per hour. In the state, bottom earners bring home $28,000, while top earners make $99,330.

You can find the best Pennsylvania schools for associate degrees by reviewing the ranking below. Using this information, you can determine which program is best for you.

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

This site is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Showing 30 schools

    Filter

    School Name


    Location


    Program


    Learning Format


    School Type


    Avg Tuition per YearTuition is the price you pay to attend classes. Tuition varies by school, and does not include costs associated with room and board, books, school supplies, meal plans, or transportation.

    $<1,000$100,000

    $<1,000 - $


    #1

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia, PA

    Graduation Rate

    96%

    Enrollment

    26,552

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $53166

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $53166

    From its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania enrolls students as a private institution. With both academic and technical programs, the institution helps students reach their educational goals. Bachelor's programs educate students with lower-division and upper-division coursework. The 120-credit bachelor's programs also include general education credits. Upper-division credits emphasize advanced concepts in the major. The school supports students with tutoring and career services. Students can expect to spend around 13995 per credit while earning a degree. At the accredited school, learners qualify for federal student aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. University of Pennsylvania is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    #2

    Clarks Summit University

    Clarks Summit, PA

    Graduation Rate

    68%

    Enrollment

    768

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $26082

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $26082

    From its Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania campus, Clarks Summit University offers 47 program options for students. The institution's programs offer a rigorous course of study. According to the school, the student-to-faculty ratio stands at 11-to-1. At the institution, 100% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid. Degree-seekers graduate from the school at a rate of 68%. Students should explore how workplace experience makes them more competitive employee candidates. The school offers experiential learning in the form of internships, research opportunities, and practicums. Hopeful students can expect admission rates of 62%. Some programs waive the test score requirement for qualified applicants.

    #3

    Villanova University

    Villanova, PA

    Graduation Rate

    92%

    Enrollment

    11,032

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $56730

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $56730

    A private institution located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, Villanova University grants degrees through multiple programs. Students earn an accredited degree that prepares them for careers and professional advancement. The institution offers affordable programs that do not sacrifice academic rigor. Many of the school's programs appear in national rankings. Students can expect to spend 1400 per credit at the school. Degree-seekers attending the accredited institution may qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Degree-seekers choose from academic and technical programs at the school. The school offers foundational courses, technical classes, and general education courses in multiple majors. The school holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting body.

    #4

    Williamson College of the Trades

    Media, PA

    Graduation Rate

    72%

    Enrollment

    249

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $28180

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $28180

    From its campus in Media, Pennsylvania, Williamson College of the Trades offers programs as a private institution. The school offers academic and technical programs to help learners reach their educational goals. The institution offers coursework that gives students the chance to gain relevant knowledge and skills. Depending on the program, applicants may need to submit test scores. The waiver makes it simpler to enroll. Learners benefit from support services like tutoring and career counseling. The institution's cost per credit is unknown. At the accredited school, learners qualify for federal student aid programs such as the Pell Grant. Williamson College of the Trades has been accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

    #5

    ASPIRA City College

    Philadelphia, PA

    Graduation Rate

    50%

    Enrollment

    5

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $11997

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $11997

    ASPIRA City College offers programs from its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Experts in diverse disciplines teach at the institution. With academic and technical tracks, the school offers programs for learners with a variety of professional goals. Enrollees earn their degree or certificate in as little time as a few months or as much time as seven years depending on program type and enrollment status. Some programs may let applicants apply without submitting test scores. These policies make it easier to apply. The admissions department can help prospective students determine the next steps. At the accredited institution, degree-seekers also qualify for financial aid to pay for school. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, an independent accrediting body.

    #6

    Rosedale Technical College

    Pittsburgh, PA

    Graduation Rate

    86%

    Enrollment

    385

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $14395

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $14395

    From its campus in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Rosedale Technical College enrolls students in programs as a private institution. The school offers accredited programs that prepare learners for the workforce. Learners benefit from the school's academic rigor and affordable tuition rate. Many of the school's programs appear in national rankings. The institution's average cost per credit is unknown. Degree-seekers at the accredited school may qualify for federal financial aid, including the Pell Grant. Learners at the school choose from academic and technical programs. Depending on their major, students complete foundational courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. Rosedale Technical College holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, an independent accrediting body.

    #7

    Laurel Business Institute

    Uniontown, PA

    Graduation Rate

    77%

    Enrollment

    238

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $10172

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $10172

    From its campus in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, Laurel Business Institute awards degrees and certificates as a private institution. Enrollees take courses with experts in diverse disciplines. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. The cost per credit is unknown. Students at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. The institution reports that 96% of students receive financial aid and 72% take out loans. The school reports a graduation rate of 77%. Prospective learners can expect admission rates of 95%. Prospective applicants can contact the admissions office for more information about applying. Laurel Business Institute holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

    #8

    Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences

    Lancaster, PA

    Graduation Rate

    66%

    Enrollment

    2,011

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $29386

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $29386

    From its campus in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences awards degrees as a private institution. The school's accredited degrees help graduates launch or advance professional careers. Degree-seekers benefit from academically rigorous programs at an affordable price. Multiple programs at the school appear in national rankings. The amount students pay per credit is currently unknown. As an accredited institution, degree-seekers qualify for federal student aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Learners choose from academic and technical programs. The school offers foundational courses, technical classes, and general education courses in multiple majors. The school holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting body.

    #9

    Triangle Tech Inc-Greensburg

    Greensburg, PA

    Graduation Rate

    83%

    Enrollment

    127

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $17370

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $17370

    Located in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Triangle Tech Inc-Greensburg attracts students with their well-regarded programs. Degree-seekers take courses with experts in diverse disciplines. The school's academic and technical tracks help students meet diverse career goals. Academic programs generally take anywhere from a few months to several years to complete depending on degree or certificate type. Applicants may qualify for a standardized test score waiver. These policies make it easier to apply. The admissions department provides additional resources on submitting an application. Learners at the accredited institution also qualify for financial aid to cover educational costs. Triangle Tech Inc-Greensburg is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

    #10

    Muhlenberg College

    Allentown, PA

    Graduation Rate

    81%

    Enrollment

    2,067

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $53865

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $53865

    A private institution located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Muhlenberg College educates students through multiple programs. The school offers programs that prepare learners for the workforce. The institution's affordable programs provide a rigorous course of study. The school boasts several programs that appear in national rankings. Data on the school's average cost per credit is unavailable. As an accredited institution, degree-seekers qualify for federal student aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Learners at the school choose from academic and technical programs. Based on their major, students take foundational courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. Muhlenberg College holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting body.

    #11

    Commonwealth Technical Institute

    Johnstown, PA

    Graduation Rate

    86%

    Enrollment

    133

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $7564

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $7564

    From its campus in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, Commonwealth Technical Institute enrolls students in 16 programs. The institution's programs offer a rigorous course of study. The school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6-to-1. According to the institution, 39% of enrollees receive some form of financial aid. The school reports a 86% graduation rate. The institution's commitment to experiential learning helps graduates on the job market. We do not currently have data on the school's admission rate. Some programs offer test-optional admission policies. Applicants can reach out to the admissions office to learn more about enrolling.

    #12

    Triangle Tech Inc-Dubois

    Falls Creek, PA

    Graduation Rate

    74%

    Enrollment

    132

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $17370

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $17370

    From its campus in Pennsylvania, Triangle Tech Inc-Dubois administers 3 total programs. Degree-seekers enroll in top-ranked programs that offer a rigorous course of study. The school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10-to-1. At the institution, 100% of the students receive some form of financial aid. The school reports a graduation rate of 74%. The institution's commitment to experiential learning makes graduates more competitive. The admission rate is unknown at this time. Some programs provide a test-optional admission option. Applicants can reach out to the admissions office to learn more about enrolling.

    #13

    Erie Institute of Technology Inc

    Erie, PA

    Graduation Rate

    71%

    Enrollment

    282

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $12285

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $12285

    Erie Institute of Technology Inc, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, offers 8 programs for students. The institution's rigorous programs rank among the best in the nation. The school reports a student-to-faculty ratio of 7-to-1. The school reports that 97% of students take advantage of financial aid. Students earn their degree from the school at a rate of 71%. The institution understands that real-world experience helps job seekers stand out. The institution's admission rate is unknown at this time. Some programs offer a waiver for standardized test scores. Prospective applicants can contact the admission department for more information about applying.

    #14

    Saint Francis University

    Loretto, PA

    Graduation Rate

    63%

    Enrollment

    2,769

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $38728

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $38728

    From its campus in Pennsylvania, Saint Francis University enrolls students in 104 programs. Students choose from rigorous, top-ranked programs at the school. According to the institution, the student-to-faculty ratio stands at 14-to-1. At the institution, 100% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid. The school reports a graduation rate of 63%. The institution understands that real-world experience helps job seekers enter the workforce. For instance, Saint Francis University may offer internships, service-learning, and research opportunities. The school reports an 59% admission rate. Some programs waive the test score requirement for qualified applicants.

    #15

    University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

    Pittsburgh, PA

    Graduation Rate

    84%

    Enrollment

    32,277

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $18628

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $32656

    University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers 488 programs for students. Degree-seekers enroll in top-ranked programs that offer a rigorous course of study. The school reports a 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. At the institution, 78% of the students receive some form of financial aid. Students graduate from the school at a rate of 84%. Job seekers often benefit from hands-on experience, which makes them more competitive job candidates. The school offers experiential learning in the form of internships, research opportunities, and practicums. The admission rate is 64% for hopeful students. Some programs no longer require standardized tests for admission.

    #16

    Saint Joseph's University

    Philadelphia, PA

    Graduation Rate

    81%

    Enrollment

    6,779

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $47740

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $47740

    From its Philadelphia, Pennsylvania campus, Saint Joseph's University enrolls students in 155 programs. The institution's rigorous programs rank among the best in the nation. The school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11-to-1. According to the institution, 98% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid. Students earn their bachelor's degree from the school at a rate of 81%. The institution's commitment to experiential learning helps graduates on the job market. The school incorporates internships, research opportunities, and service learning. The admission rate is 80% for prospective students. Some programs offer a waiver for standardized test scores.

    #17

    University of Scranton

    Scranton, PA

    Graduation Rate

    82%

    Enrollment

    4,957

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $46684

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $46684

    Located in Pennsylvania, University of Scranton offers 135 degree-granting programs. The institution's rigorous programs rank among the best in the nation. The school has a student-to-faculty ratio of 12-to-1. At the institution, 99% of the students receive some form of financial aid. The private school reports a 82% graduation rate. The institution's commitment to experiential learning helps graduates on the job market. Enrollees benefit from internships, research opportunities, and other forms of service learning. Prospective enrollees can expect an 79% admission rate. Some programs no longer require standardized tests for admission.

    #18

    Thomas Jefferson University

    Philadelphia, PA

    Graduation Rate

    70%

    Enrollment

    8,286

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $40680

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $40680

    Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Thomas Jefferson University educates college students as a private institution. With both academic and technical programs, the college helps students reach their educational goals. Undergraduates complete lower-division and upper-division coursework to earn a bachelor's degree. Bachelor's programs also incorporate general education credits. In upper-division classes, undergraduates learn advanced concepts in their major. The school supports learners with tutoring and career services. The college charges an average of 617 per credit. Learners attending the accredited school also qualify for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant. The school is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    #19

    Triangle Tech Inc-Erie

    Erie, PA

    Graduation Rate

    87%

    Enrollment

    Not Provided

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $17370

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $17370

    From its campus in Erie, Pennsylvania, Triangle Tech Inc-Erie enrolls students in 2 programs. Students enroll in top-ranked programs that offer a rigorous course of study. The student-to-faculty ratio is unavailable. The average amount of aid awarded per student is not available. The private school reports a 87% graduation rate. Job seekers often benefit from hands-on experience, which makes them more competitive job candidates. We do not currently have data on the school's admission rate. Many schools no longer require test scores for admission. The admissions office provides more information about application requirements.

    #20

    Douglas Education Center

    Monessen, PA

    Graduation Rate

    76%

    Enrollment

    207

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $17600

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $17600

    Douglas Education Center, located in Monessen, Pennsylvania, enrolls students in 11 programs. Students enroll in top-ranked programs that offer a rigorous course of study. According to the school, the student-to-faculty ratio stands at 14-to-1. A total of 87% of students receive some form of financial aid. Learners graduate from the school at a rate of 76%. The institution's commitment to experiential learning helps graduates become more competitive in the job market. The institution's admission rate is currently unknown. Some programs waive the test score requirement for qualified applicants. The admission department can provide more information about application requirements.

    #21

    Elizabethtown College

    Elizabethtown, PA

    Graduation Rate

    72%

    Enrollment

    1,881

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $32960

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $32960

    A private institution located in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, Elizabethtown College enrolls students in several programs. The school awards accredited degrees that prepare graduates for careers and professional advancement. The institution offers an academically rigorous course of study at an affordable price. The school's programs appear in national rankings. The amount students pay per credit on average is currently unknown. Degree-seekers at the accredited school may qualify for federal financial aid, including the Pell Grant. The institution offers both academic and technical programs. Depending on their major, students complete foundational courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. Elizabethtown College holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    #22

    Laurel Technical Institute

    Hermitage, PA

    Graduation Rate

    59%

    Enrollment

    122

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $10172

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $10172

    Laurel Technical Institute offers programs from its campus in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. Experts in diverse disciplines teach at the institution. With academic and technical tracks, the school offers programs for students with a variety of professional goals. Depending on the program, students can spend anywhere from a few months up to as many as seven years earning their degree or certificate. Some applicants qualify for a waiver for standardized test scores. Test-optional policies make it easier to apply. The admissions department can provide more information on the process. Financial aid helps degree-seekers pay for their education. The school holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, an independent accrediting body.

    #23

    Geneva College

    Beaver Falls, PA

    Graduation Rate

    72%

    Enrollment

    1,349

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $28500

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $28500

    A private institution, Geneva College grants degrees and certificates from its campus in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. Instructors draw on their expertise in diverse fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or further study. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown. At the accredited institution, learners qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. At the institution, 94% of students receive financial aid and 88% take out loans. The private school reports a 72% graduation rate. Hopeful students can expect admission rates of 73%. Prospective applicants can contact the admission department for more information about applying. The school is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting body.

    #24

    Lansdale School of Business

    North Wales, PA

    Graduation Rate

    76%

    Enrollment

    119

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $11850

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $11850

    A top-ranked school, Lansdale School of Business enrolls learners in programs from its campus in North Wales, Pennsylvania. Instructors draw on their expertise in diverse fields. The school offers academic and technical tracks to help students meet a variety of professional goals. Completing a program can take anywhere from a few months to seven years depending on degree or certificate type and whether the student chooses part-time or full-time enrollment. Some applicants qualify for a waiver for standardized test scores. This makes it easier to enroll. Admission advisors can provide additional information on submitting an application. Financial aid helps enrollees cover their educational expenses. Lansdale School of Business has received accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, an independent accrediting body.

    #25

    Triangle Tech Inc-Pittsburgh

    Pittsburgh, PA

    Graduation Rate

    69%

    Enrollment

    109

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $17370

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $17370

    A private institution located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Triangle Tech Inc-Pittsburgh offers a variety of programs. Enrollees complete programs that prepare them for the workforce. Degree-seekers benefit from academically rigorous programs at an affordable price. Multiple programs at the school appear in national rankings. The amount students pay per credit on average is currently unknown. Degree-seekers at this accredited institution may qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Learners choose from academic and technical programs. Depending on their program, students complete foundational courses, technical classes, and general education requirements. Triangle Tech Inc-Pittsburgh has received accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

    #26

    Gannon University

    Erie, PA

    Graduation Rate

    68%

    Enrollment

    4,251

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $34575

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $34575

    Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, Gannon University enrolls students as a private institution. With both academic and technical programs, the institution helps students reach their professional goals. Bachelor's programs educate students with lower-division and upper-division coursework. Undergraduates also complete general education courses. Upper-division credits focus on various concepts in the major. Enrollees receive support in the form of tutoring and career services. The school's cost per credit is unknown. Learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Gannon University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    #27

    Temple University

    Philadelphia, PA

    Graduation Rate

    75%

    Enrollment

    37,236

    Format

    Online, In person

    In-State Tuition

    $16080

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $28992

    From its campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Temple University educates college students as a public institution. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps students reach their professional goals. Undergraduates complete lower-division and upper-division coursework to earn a bachelor's degree. The 120-credit bachelor's programs also include general education credits. Upper-division courses typically focus on advanced concepts within a major. Learners receive support in the form of tutoring and career services. Information on the school's cost per credit is unavailable. The accredited institution qualifies for federal student aid programs, including the Pell Grant. Temple University has been accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    #28

    York College of Pennsylvania

    York, PA

    Graduation Rate

    65%

    Enrollment

    4,039

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $19670

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $19670

    A private institution, York College of Pennsylvania enrolls students from its campus in York, Pennsylvania. Enrollees study with experts in many different fields. The school offers academic and technical programs that prepare graduates for the workforce or a bachelor's degree. The cost per credit is unknown. The accredited institution meets the requirements for federal financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant. The institution reports that 100% of students receive aid, and 66% receive loans. Enrollees graduate from the school at a rate of 65%. Hopeful students can expect admission rates of 71%. The admissions office provides more information about application requirements and start dates. York College of Pennsylvania holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    #29

    Vet Tech Institute

    Pittsburgh, PA

    Graduation Rate

    72%

    Enrollment

    292

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $14240

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $14240

    Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Vet Tech Institute grants degrees as a private institution. With both academic and technical programs, the school helps learners reach their professional goals. Students strengthen their knowledge of the field by completing coursework. Applicants may qualify for a waiver for standardized test scores. These policies make it easier to enroll. Learners benefit from support services, which include tutoring and career counseling. Data on the school's average cost per credit is currently unavailable. Learners at the accredited school qualify for federal student aid programs. Vet Tech Institute holds accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

    #30

    Penn Commercial Business/Technical School

    Washington, PA

    Graduation Rate

    66%

    Enrollment

    238

    Format

    In person

    In-State Tuition

    $16626

    Out-of-State Tuition

    $16626

    Located in Washington, Pennsylvania, Penn Commercial Business/Technical School awards degrees and certificates as a private institution. Experts in diverse disciplines teach at the institution. Students who complete an academic or technical program enter the workforce or pursue a bachelor's degree. The amount students pay per credit on average is unknown. At the accredited school, enrollees qualify for financial aid, including federal loans, scholarships, and grants. A total of 82% of students receive financial aid and 61% take out loans at the school. The private school reports a graduation rate of 66%. Prospective learners can expect admission rates of 91%. Contact the admissions department for more details about application requirements. Penn Commercial Business/Technical School has been accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, an independent accrediting body.