best colleges in pennsylvania for business
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There are many opportunities for young adults with no one path to success, health, or happiness. After high school, young adults directly enter the workforce and/or the armed services, pursue an associate’s or trade degree, or invest more time, energy, and finances into a bachelor’s degree. With the cost of college continually rising, the question of the importance of a bachelor’s degree comes into account. But while success can be found in many paths, a bachelor’s degree still shows to be a solid financial investment. In 2014, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York published an important report with data on the financial return for students with a high school diploma, associate’s degree, and bachelor’s degree. Not only does the bachelor’s degree provide an important gateway to a postgraduate degree, but it has provided a consistent higher salary for graduates over the past 43 years, as well as provided a much higher projected life-cycle wage. From 1970 and 2013, full-time professionals with (only) bachelor’s degrees earned an average of $64,500 per year, which is 56% higher than students that just hold a high school diploma. Over their lifetime, projected with wages from 2013 data, full-time professionals with (only) a bachelor’s degree will earn an average of $1 million more that a professional with only a high school diploma.
With the importance of a bachelor’s degree within the years of school, and the professional years beyond, prospective students are busy trying to find the right fit. Within this vetting process, students must prioritize their options as they search for schools by location, prestige, cost, and ROI preferences. And even with more degrees offered online, location can still play a significant role in costs, and thus must be weighed in. There are 390 educational institutions in the state of Pennsylvania alone, listed with the U.S. Department of Education and the Institute of Education Sciences’ National Center for Educational Statistics. Of those, 115 offer bachelor’s degrees in business related studies. We hope our Top 25 Undergraduate Business Schools in Pennsylvania ranking will help parents and students make an informed and confident decision about this important step.
Also, check out our Top 25 Master’s of Business Administration degrees in Pennsylvania and our Top 10 Master’s in Management degrees in Pennsylvania.
Note: A detailed explanation of the methodology we used to determine the best online MBA in Accounting programs can be found at the end of the ranking.
#25 Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania John L. Grove College of Business – Shippensburg, Pennsylvania
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania’s John L. Grove College of Business has a well respected Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration degree program. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and the John L. Grove College of Business holds the elite AACSB-International accreditation. This accreditation status is a symbol of exceptional performance in business schools around the world. In fact, US News and World Report currently ranks SU #326 on their ranking of the Best Undergraduate Business Programs in the nation. The university offers students an outstanding business education at a very affordable price point of only $11,452 per year. Graduates with bachelor’s degrees from SU have reported earning $43,000 in their early careers and join an active alumni of more than 67,000.
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania is a four-year, public university that was established in 1871 as the Cumberland Valley State Normal School. Today, Shippensburg offers over 100 undergraduate and 57 graduate level degree programs to over 7,000 students every year. The undergraduate business program through the Grove College of Business offers six majors including: Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Management, Management Information systems, Marketing, Supply Chain Management. The program also has several concentration options and two unique accelerated programs. The accelerated BSBA can be completed in as little as three years and the BSBA and MBA program is completed on a five year timeline.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $11,452
#24 Marywood University School of Business & Global Innovation – Scranton, Pennsylvania
At Marywood University’s School of Business & Global Innovation, students can earn a well rounded business degree that is prestigiously accredited by ACBSP Global, as well as by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Princeton Review currently lists the university among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the United States. The average early salary reported by Marywood graduates holding bachelor’s degrees is $38,200, and tuition cost are $33,000 per year. The curriculum upholds a standard of excellence that is rooted in Catholic tradition. The university’s core values of Catholic Identity, Respect, Empowerment, Service, and Excellence all play a role in helping students reach their goals. Class sizes of 11:1, excellent accreditations, and a location that is just a few hours drive from the business hubs of New York and Philadelphia all make the School of Business & Global Innovation worth considering for an undergraduate business degree.
Marywood University is a four year, private, liberal arts university that serves 3,010 students each year. The campus is located on 115 acres in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and includes a national arboretum with over 100 varieties of trees and shrubs. There are 60 bachelor’s degrees, 36 master’s degrees, and two doctoral degrees offered through the university. Students can earn their business degree from the School of Business & Global innovation in 120 credit hours and have the option to specialize in Accounting, Financial Planning, Health Services Administration, International Business, Management, Marketing, Retail Business Management. Marywood University also stands out as one of the only institutions in their region to offer a highly specialized degree in Aviation Management.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $33,000
#23 Penn State Harrisburg School of Business Administration – Middletown, Pennsylvania
The undergraduate business programs through the School of Business Administration at Penn State Harrisburg is accredited by the highly regarded Middle States Commission on Higher Education, as well as the prestigious AACSB International. US News and World Report recently ranked Penn State Harrisburg #248 on their list of the 488 Best Undergraduate Business Programs in the United States. The university is able to provide students with an exceptional educational experience at an affordable price point, in part because of their connection to the distinguished Pennsylvania State University system. The estimated costs of one year’s tuition and fees is $14,828. Graduates of “The Capital College” have reported earning $52,100 in their early careers. Affordable tuition costs, high return on investment potential, and excellent accreditations are just a few of the reasons that the School of Business Administration was selected for our ranking.
Penn State Harrisburg is a member of the 24-campus Pennsylvania State University system. The campus is located in Middletown, Pennsylvania and is home to 4,678 students each semester. There are 61 degrees offered through the university’s five schools and colleges. Students can earn their Bachelor’s of Science degree in business related fields through the School of Business Administration. The program offers concentrations in the areas of Accounting, Finance, Information Systems, Management, Marketing, Project and Supply Chain Management. The ideals of research, scholarship, innovative teaching, and community outreach all seem to be cornerstones of the Penn State Harrisburg experience, and the School of Business Administration works to include these values within every aspect of their undergraduate business program.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $14,828
#22 Wilkes University Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership – Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
At Wilkes University the Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership is accredited by the renowned ACBSP Global and Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Princeton Review recently listed the university among the Top Northeastern Colleges in the nation. The average cost of one year’s tuition and fees is $33,568, and graduates holding their bachelor’s degree from the college have reported earning $45,300 in their early careers. According to their website, Wilkes University has an impressive 97% post graduation job placement rate. Average class sizes of 23 students, exceptional accreditations, and highly qualified professors are all reasons to consider becoming a Wilkes University Colonel.
Wilkes University is a four year, private, non-denominational university located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. The university enrolls 5,053 students each year and holds seven colleges and schools on its 35 acre campus. Students seeking an undergraduate business degree can earn a Jay S. Sidhu School of Business and Leadership Bachelor’s of Business Administration. This degree gives students an option of seven majors in the areas of Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Hospitality Leadership, Finance, Management, Marketing, and Sports Management. The BBA is a program that is dedicated to preparing students to become exceptional organizational leaders. This exceptional undergraduate program also includes an Accelerated Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree and minors in Marketing, Management, Leadership, Finance, Entrepreneurship, and Accounting.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $33,568
#21 Messiah College School of Business, Education, and Social Sciences – Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
Students of Messiah College can earn a well respected Bachelor’s of Science in business related fields through the School of Business, Education, and Social Sciences. Messiah College is currently listed among the Best Northeastern Colleges by the Princeton Review. The undergraduate business program at Messiah is prestigiously accredited by ACBSP Global, and regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The average cost of tuition and fees for one year of attendance is $33,180. Graduates holding a bachelor’s degree from Messiah College report earning $46,000 in their early careers and join an active alumni of over 27,000. According to their website, an impressive 97% of the class of 2015 reported either being employed or enrolled in graduate level programs.
Messiah College is a private, four-year university located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. The average class size at Messiah College is 20 students with an impressive 13:1 student teacher ratio. The School of Business, Education, and Social Sciences offers undergraduate business program with both Bachelor’s of Science and Bachelor’s of Arts in business related fields. The Bachelor’s of Science degree specializations are: Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Finance, International Business, and Marketing. The Bachelor’s of Arts concentration areas include: Economic Development and Economics. Messiah College also offers over 400 internship opportunities each year through their 89 internship sites.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $33,180
#20 Misericordia University College of Business – Dallas, Pennsylvania
At Misericordia University’s College of Business, students can earn a Bachelor’s of Science degree in business related fields that is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, as well as the highly recognized IACBE. The average cost of one year’s tuition and fees at the university is $30,740 and graduates have reported earning average early salaries of $43,000. The university focuses their programs and curriculum in a way that learning is “is accomplished through a holistic and integrated approach.” The Princeton Review currently lists them among the Best Colleges in the Northeast. Misericordia University offers a personalized education experience with a teacher to faculty ratio of only 11:1 and average class size of 19 students.
Misericordia University is located in Dallas, Pennsylvania and is home to 2,963 students each year. They are a four-year, private university that offers 37 degree programs through their three academic colleges. Students can earn a well rounded Bachelor’s of Science degree through the College of Business. The undergraduate business program is offered with six areas of study including Accounting, Business Administration, Healthcare Management, Information Technology, and Sports Management. There are also two additional and unique programs offered through the College of Business. The Expressway Accelerated Degree Program allows undergraduate business students to complete their degree in as little as two in a half years in a flexible part-time format. Additionally, students can choose to complete the BS/BA/Organizational Management program which can be completed in five years. Misericordia’s exceptional accreditations, small classes, and variety of program options are just a few of the reasons that this university was selected for our ranking.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $30,740
#19 Penn State Behrend Black School of Business – Erie, Pennsylvania
At Penn State Behrend, students can earn their Bachelor’s of Science in business related fields through the university’s well respected Black School of Business. The school is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, as well as additionally accredited by AACSB International. The average cost of one year’s tuition and fees at Penn State Behrend is $14,828, and graduates with bachelor’s degrees from the university have reported earning $55,400 in their early careers. Along with other recognitions, US News and World Report recently ranked Penn State Behrend #218 in the Best Undergraduate Business Schools category. Penn State Behrend is a proud member of the prestigious 24 campus Pennsylvania State University system, and because of this affiliation the university is able to offer students an exceptional educational experience at an affordable price point.
Penn State Behrend is a four-year, public university that is located in Erie, Pennsylvania. The campus sits on 854 picturesque acres and enrolls 4,327 students each year. There are over 40 degrees available through Penn State Behrend’s four schools. The Black School of Business has an average student to faculty ratio of only 16:1 and an average class size of 26 students. There are nine Bachelor’s of Science degrees offered in business related fields. These concentration areas include Accounting, Business Economics, Economics, Finance, Interdisciplinary Business with Engineering Studies, International Business, Management Information Systems, Marketing, and Project Supply Chain Management.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $14,828
#18 Susquehanna University Sigmund Weis School of Business – Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania
Susquehanna University offers an exceptionally accredited Bachelor’s of Science degree in business related fields through the Sigmund Weis School of Business. The undergraduate business program is reputably accredited by AACSB International, as well as regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. US News and World Report recently ranked Susquehanna University #326 on their list of the 488 Best Undergraduate Business Schools in the nation. They are also currently listed among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the United States by the Princeton Review. Graduates with bachelor’s degrees from Susquehanna have reported earning $42,900 in their early careers and the average cost of one year’s tuition is $43,720. The undergraduate business program is focused on providing students with small class sizes, state of the art technology, and hands on learning experiences. These aspects, along with exceptional accreditation status are all part of what make Susquehanna University a superb choice for students seeking a degree and career in business.
Susquehanna University is a private, four-year university that was founded in 1858. The 325 acre campus is located in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. There are over 100 majors, minors, and programs offered to the university’s 2,199 students each year. The Sigmund Weis School of Business has an average student to faculty ratio of only 12:1 and also offers a variety of internships, required study away programs, as well as many other hands on learning experiences. Students can earn their Bachelor’s of Science degree with options to major in Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, Finance, Global Management, or Marketing. This program also includes a unique Luxury Brand Marketing and Management major that is difficult to find else where.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $43,720
#17 York College of Pennsylvania Graham School of Business – York, Pennsylvania
Students can earn a bachelor’s degree at York College of Pennsylvania that is prestigiously accredited and focused on hands on learning experiences. The undergraduate business program offered through the Graham School of Business is highly accredited by ACBSP Global, as well as regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. One year of tuition and fees at the college cost an average of $18,780. Graduates with bachelor’s degrees report earning average early salaries of $48,800. The Princeton Review currently lists them among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation, they are also currently ranked #91 by US News and World Report in Best Regional Universities of the North. York College of Pennsylvania works hard to ensure that students receive personalized attention from day one. This student centered approach, combined with small class sizes, and high return on investment potential, are all a part of what makes this college, such a stand out choice.
York College of Pennsylvania is a private, four-year university that was established in 1787. Throughout the years the university has grown and the now offers over 50 bachelor’s degrees to their student body of 4,739 each year. The Graham School of Business offers both Bachelor’s of Science and Bachelor’s of Business Administration degrees through their undergraduate business program. Students have the opportunity to specialize in a variety of areas of study including: Advertising and Digital Marketing, Cybersecurity Management, Engineering Management, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Leadership and Organizational Dynamics, Human Resource Management, Information Technology Management, Social Enterprise and Not-For-Profit Management, and Undeclared Business. The business program also offers an expansive array of business related minors and many high tech learning amenities that are not easily found elsewhere.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $18,780
#16 Robert Morris University School of Business – Moon Township, Pennsylvania
At Robert Morris University’s School of Business, students can earn a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration degree that is both regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the highly regarded AACSB International. US News and World Report currently ranks RMU #372 on their list of the Best Undergraduate Business Programs in the United States. The Princeton Review also recently listed them as one of the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation. The average cost of one year’s tuition and fees at RMU is $28,250, and graduates holding their bachelor’s degree from the university have reported earning $44,600 in their early careers. The undergraduate business program within the School of Business is focused on “utilizing experiential learning strategies, internships, simulations, case studies, and strategic plans.” This student and technology centered approach is part of what has earned RMU recognition, both on our ranking, and many others.
Robert Morris University is a private, four-year university located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania. The campus sits on 230 scenic acres and enrolls 5,377 students each year. There are over 80 degree programs offered through the university’s five academic schools and colleges. Students seeking a degree in business studies can earn a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration through the School of Business. The BSBA program offers 10 distinct majors in the areas of: Accounting, Economics, Finance, Management, Marketing, Fully Online Business, Undeclared Business, Hospitality and Tourism Management (Offered both online and in traditional classroom format), and Sports Management. The college also offers a variety of minors in business related fields as well.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $28,250
#15 Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania College of Business – Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania
The College of Business at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania is highly accredited by ACBSP Global, and the university itself is also regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on higher education. They are currently listed among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation by the Princeton Review and boast the second lowest tuition rate on our ranking with an average cost of only $9,862 per year. Graduates of SRU have reported earning $40,200 in their early careers and join an active alumni with a history of excellence dating back to 1889. The business program at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania is centered around the core values of Professional Proficiency, Critical Thinking & Problem Solving, Communication Skills, Information Technology, and Ethics. These skills are translated into every aspect of the program to help ensure student success both in academics and future career endeavors.
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania serves 8,611 students each year. The university is a proud member of the 14 campus, Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education system. This affiliation help SRU keep tuition low, while still providing students with the highest standards of education. The Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration degree program offered through the College of Business has seven majors available in the areas of: Accounting, Economics, Finance, Information Systems, Health Care Administration & Management, Management, and Marketing. There are also minors offered in: Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Information Systems, Management, Management Pre-MBA, Marketing, and Sustainable Management.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $9,862
#14 Kutztown University of Pennsylvania College of Business – Kutztown, Pennsylvania
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania offers two exceptionally accredited Bachelor’s of Science degrees in business related fields. The College of Business is prestigiously accredited by AACSB International, as well as, regionally accredited by the Middles States Commission on Higher Education. The Princeton Review recently listed the university among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the United States, and they are also currently ranked #446 by US News and World Report in Best Undergraduate Business Programs. The cost of attendance at KU is the most affordable on our ranking, with tuition and fees of only $9,618 per year. Graduates with bachelor’s degrees from Kutztown University have reported earning $38,400 in their early careers and join an active alumni of over 76,000 former Golden Bears.
Kutztown University is an established member of the 14 campus Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. The university is located in Kutztown, Pennsylvania and settled on a large campus of 326 rural acres. There are six academic schools and colleges on campus that provide over 65 bachelor’s degrees and 18 master’s degrees to KU’s to 8,995 students each year. The College of Business offers both Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration and Bachelor’s of Science in Leisure and Sports Studies. The Bachelor’s of Science in Leisure and Sports Studies is a unique degree option that is additionally certified by the Commission on Sport Management Accreditation.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $9,618
#13 University of Scranton Kania School of Management – Scranton, Pennsylvania
Students can earn a well respected and highly accredited Bachelor’s of Science degree in business related studies at the University of Scranton’s Kania School of Management. The university is regionally accredited by the Middles States Commission on Higher Education, and the Kania School of Management holds the prestigious AACSB International accreditation. Graduates with their bachelor’s degrees from the university report earning early career salaries of $47,300, and the average cost of attendance for one year of tuition and fees is $42,162. US News and World Report currently ranks the the university as #183 on their list of the 488 Best Undergraduate Business Programs in the United States. The Princeton Review also recently listed the University of Scranton among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation. The Kania School of Management combines state of the art technology resources with a holistic and student centered approach to learning. Students are given the opportunity to enhance their skills through interactive learning experiences such as internships, professional development programs, mentor programs, and alumni and faculty collaboration programs.
The University of Scranton was established in 1888 and is located in the historic Hill Section of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Over 5,400 students attend this private, four-year, university each year. Students have the opportunity to earn their degree through three colleges and can receive a Bachelor’s of Science in business related fields through the Kania School of Management. The undergraduate Bachelor’s of Science program includes areas of study in Accounting, Business Administration, E-Commerce, Economics, Finance, International Business, Management, Marketing , and Operations Management.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $42,162
#12 Bucknell University School of Management – Lewisburg, Pennsylvania
Students can earn a well respected and highly accredited Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration from the School of Management at Bucknell University. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and the School of Management holds additional accreditation through AACSB International. The cost of one year’s tuition and fees is $51,960 and the average early salary reported by Bucknell graduates with bachelor’s degrees is impressive $58,500. Among other prestigious mentions, the Princeton Review currently lists the university as one of the Best Northeastern Colleges in the United States. They are also ranked #133 on US News and World Report’s 488 Best Undergraduate Business Programs. The undergraduate business program through the School of Management offers a variety of experiential learning opportunities including, a student managed investment fund, internships, and the option to study abroad.
Bucknell University is a private, four-year university located along the West Branch Susquehanna River in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. There are three colleges on campus that offer over 50 majors and 60 minors to the university’s student body of 3,652 each year. Students seeking a degree in business can earn their Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration from the School of Management and have the option to choose from four major areas of study. The majors offered include: Accounting & Financial Management, Managing for Sustainability, Global Management, and Markets, Innovation, & Designs.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $51,960
#11 Drexel University Bennett S. LeBow College of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Undergraduate students seeking a degree in business can earn a highly accredited Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration degree through the LeBow College of Business at Drexel University. The business school at Drexel University is exceptionally accredited by both AACSB International and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Princeton Review recently listed the university among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the Nation, and they are also currently ranked #94 on US News and World Report’s list of the Best Undergraduate Business Programs in the nation. Tuition and fees at cost an average of $51,030 per year, and graduates with bachelor’s degrees have reported earning a notable $57,700 in their early careers. Drexel University is a place where students “benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, unparalleled student support, technology and world-renowned faculty.”
Drexel University’s three campuses are located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and serve the third largest study body our ranking with 25,595 students enrolled each year. The private, four-year university was established in 1891 and has grown to offer over 70 undergraduate degrees and over 100 master’s, doctoral, and professional programs. Students can earn their Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration through the LeBow College of Business. This degree offers 13 program majors and co-majors including: Accounting, Business Analytics, Business and Engineering, Economics, Finance, General Business, International Business, Legal Studies, Management Information Systems, Marketing, Operations and Supply Chain Management, Organizational Management, and Technology Innovation Management. Another unique aspect of Drexel University’s programs is the opportunity for students to participate in the school’s Cooperative Education Program which allows students to work for 18 months on a full time, paid basis in a field relevant to their undergraduate major or graduate degree program prior to graduation.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $51,030
#10 Saint Joseph’s University Erivan K. Haub School of Business – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Haub School of Business at Saint Joseph’s University offers an exceptionally accredited bachelor’s degree in business related fields. The university itself is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and the undergraduate business program is additionally accredited by the prestigious AACSB International. US News and World Report currently ranks Saint Joseph’s as #94 on their ranking of the 488 Best Undergraduate Business Programs in the United States. They are also listed by the Princeton Review as one of the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation. Tuition and fee’s at SJU are an average of $43,020 per year, and graduates holding their bachelor’s degree have reported earning average early salaries of $48,800. Experiential learning plays a key role in the SJU experience. Students are given the opportunity to participate in service learning courses, study tours, study abroad, and even a unique cooperative learning opportunity where students work full time, with pay, during 12 months of their four-year degree plan.
Saint Joseph’s University is located Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The campus serves 8,625 students annually and offers well over 125 majors and programs of study. There are over 100 organizations, as well as, many athletic sports and intramural sports teams for students to participate in. The undergraduate business program through the Haub School of Business has eight distinct areas of study including: Accounting, Decision and System Sciences, Finance, Food Marketing, Management, Marketing, Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Marketing, and Risk Management & Insurance.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $43,020
#9 Duquesne University Palumbo Donahue School of Business Administration – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
At Duquesne University’s Palumbo Donahue School of Business Administration, students can earn a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration degree that is highly recognized and prestigiously accredited. US News and World Report currently ranks Duquesne as #150 on their list of the nation’s Best Undergraduate Business Programs. The school was also recently listed among the Princeton Review’s Best Northeastern Colleges in the United States. The business school is accredited by both AACSB International and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Students holding their bachelor’s degree from Duquesne have reported earning average salaries of $47,100 in their early careers, and the cost of one year of tuition and fees is $35,062. The Donahue School of Business Administration at Duquesne University offers a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration degree with a variety of majors, as well as, several unique dual degree program options.
Duquesne University is a private, four-year university located in the bustling city of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. The hilltop campus serves nearly 10,000 students each year and has a living alumni of over 79,000. There are nine schools and and institutions at Duquesne University that provide students with 189 academic program options. The Donahue School of Business Administration offers a well rounded undergraduate business program. The Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration program has 10 majors of study available. These majors include: Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Information Management Systems, International Business, Management, Marketing, Sports Marketing, and Supply Chain Management. Students can also choose to earn a minor in business or participate in one of the university’s several dual degree programs.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $35,062
#8 Lehigh University College of Business and Economics – Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Students seeking a Bachelor’s of Science in business related fields can earn an accredited and well respected degree through the College of Business and Economics at Lehigh University. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and the business school itself is accredited by the distinguished AACSB International. Graduates of Lehigh have reported earning the second highest early career pay on our ranking at $62,900. The Princeton Review currently lists the university among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the United States, and they are also ranked #94 by US News and World Report in the Best Undergraduate Business Schools category. The cost of tuition and fees for one year of attendance at Lehigh is $48,320, which is also one of the highest on our list, however their exceptionally high standards, many prestigious mentions, and high early pay in graduates make them a university with high return on investment potential.
Lehigh University is a private, four-year university that serves 7,054 students annually. The campus sits on a sprawling 2,350 acres and consists of four academic colleges, including the College of Business and Economics. This college offers three distinct Bachelor’s of Science degrees in the areas of Business and Economics, Integrated Business and Engineering, and Computer Science and Business. Students on the Business and Economics track also have the opportunity to major in the areas of Accounting, Business Information Systems, Business Economics, Economics, Finance, Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $48,320
#7 Villanova University School of Business – Villanova, Pennsylvania
Villanova University’s School of Business offers several undergraduate business degrees that are highly accredited by AACSB International and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The university is currently listed by the Princeton Review as one of the Best Northeastern Colleges in the United States. They have also received many other prestigious recognitions including being ranked #63 by US News and World Report and #1 by Bloomberg Businessweek in the Best Undergraduate Business Programs categories. The cost of one year’s tuition and fees at Villanova is $49,280, and graduates with bachelor’s degrees from the university report earning one of the highest average early salaries on our list of $58,600. Villanova University’s high early pay in graduates, distinguished accreditation statues, and many prestigious mentions, all show that this is a university with definite return of investment potential upon graduation.
Villanova University is a four year, private university that was established in 1842, and now stands as the oldest Catholic university in the state of Pennsylvania. The campus sits on 240 beautifully historic acres, just 12 miles from Philadelphia, and serves 10,711 students each year. There are six colleges, including the School of Business. Students seeking a bachelor’s degree in business related fields have the option to major in six content areas including: Accountancy, Economics, Finance, Management, Management Information Systems, Marketing, Business Analytics (co-major), International Business (co-major), Real Estate (co-major). Villanova prides itself on providing students with the best educational opportunities possible, and the School of Business is no exception.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $49,280
#6 Indiana University of Pennsylvania Eberly College of Business and Information Technology – Indiana, Pennsylvania
Students of the Eberly College of Business and Information Technology at Indiana University of Pennsylvania have an opportunity to earn a Bachelor’s of Science degree in business studies that is reputably accredited by AACSB International, as well as regionally accredited by the Middle States Commissions on Higher Education. The undergraduate business program at IUP is currently ranked #326 out of 488 in the Best Undergraduate Business Programs category by US News and World Report, and the university was also recently listed as one of the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation by the Princeton Review. The university is a four-year, public university located in Indiana, Pennsylvania. The campus sits on 350 quiet acres, but is just a few hours from the major city of Pittsburg. IUP graduates holding bachelor’s degrees earn an average early salary of $42,000, and with a cost of only $11,368 per year, parents can confidently invest in their student’s future with an Bachelor’s of Science in business studies from this reputable and well accredited program.
Over 13,800 students enroll at Indiana University of Pennsylvania each year, making them the second largest university within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education System and the fifth largest within the state itself. The Eberly College of Business and Information Technology offers a Bachelor’s of Science degree with seven majors including: Accounting, Finance, Management (with multiple tracks), Human Resource Management, International Business, Management Information Systems, and Marketing. IUP puts great focus on helping students grow academically, socially, and within their specific field of study. Because of this, the university offers a variety of extracurricular activities and organizations for students to participate in.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $11,368
#5 University of Pennsylvania Wharton School – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School offers some of the most well known business programs in the nation. This distinguished school is accredited by the prestigious AACSB International, as well as the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. US News and World Report currently ranks UPenn #1 in Best Undergraduate Business Programs and the Princeton Review also listed the school as one of the Best Northeastern Colleges in the United States. The average cost of one year of tuition and fee’s at the University of Pennsylvania is $51,464. While that is one of the highest tuition rates on our list, the distinguished faculty, alumni of organization of over 304,000, and unparalleled networking connections make the program well worth the cost. The University of Pennsylvania also boast the third highest early pay rate for bachelor’s degree graduates on our ranking, with a notable average early income of $62,200 per year.
The University of Pennsylvania was founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin. This private, four-year, Ivy League university is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and serves 24,876 students annually. The campus houses four undergraduate schools, 12 graduate and professional schools, as well as, a variety of historic and contemporary buildings and residence halls. Students can earn a Bachelor’s of Science through both the Wharton School’s undergraduate business program and through several dual degree programs that combine other areas of expertise. The degrees offered include Bachelor’s of Science in: Economics, International Studies and Business, Management and Technology, Life Sciences and Management, and Nursing and Health Care Management. The Bachelor’s of Science in Economics from the Wharton School also offers over 20 concentration areas directly related to business including but not limited to: Actuarial Science, Behavioral Economics, Global Analysis, Managing Electronic Commerce, Operations Information & Decisions, and Social Impact and Responsibility.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $51,464
#4 Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Carnegie Mellon University offers a student focused and exceptionally accredited undergraduate business program. The Tepper School of Business is ranked number #6 by US News and World Report in Best Undergraduate Business Programs, and the university itself is also listed as one of the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation by the Princeton Review. The program holds prestigious accreditation through both AACSB Global and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. CMU graduates with a bachelor’s degree report earning an average early pay of $69,400, making them of the top earners on our list. The cost of tuition and fees for one year averages $52,310. This price point is also our highest, however average pay for graduates significantly tops those of other universities on our list. Carnegie Mellon also stands out because of their many prestigious mentions and distinguished alumni connections.
Carnegie Mellon University was established in 1900 and has grown to serve 12,963 students annually. The 140 acre campus is located just three miles from downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and houses seven colleges and independent schools where students can choose from over 90 programs and majors. The Tepper School of Business allows students to focus on business or economics from a global perspective. There are five Bachelor’s of Science degree options in the areas of: Business Administration, Computational Finance, Economics, Economics and Mathematical Science, and Economics and Statistics. Students can also choose from a variety of concentration areas including: Accounting, Business Analytics, Business Technology, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Graphic Media Management, International Business, Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness, Marketing, and Operations Management.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $52,310
#3 Temple University Fox School of Business and Management – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Students can obtain an affordable and well respected Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree from the Fox School of Business and Management at Temple University. The Princeton Review lists Temple University among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation, and US News and World Report currently ranks TU #48 among the Best Undergraduate Business Programs in the United States. The Bachelor’s of Business Administration program at Temple University is accredited by AACSB International, as well as the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The average cost of tuition and fees for one year of attendance is $16,274, and graduates holding a bachelor’s degree from Temple have reported earning $45,600 in their early careers. Temple University’s affordable tuition rates, excellent accreditations, and many prestigious recognitions are all part of what makes Temple University an excellent choice for students seeking their undergraduate business degree.
Temple University is a four year, public university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The university has 17 colleges, as well as, five professional and graduate schools. With 38,007 students enrolled each semester, TU is second largest school in the state. Students can earn their Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree both on campus and online through the Fox School of Business and Management. Temple University’s BBA program offers 16 majors, as well as, a variety of minors. The majors available are Accounting, Actuarial Science, Business Management, Economics, Entrepreneurial and Innovation Management, Finance, Financial Planning, Human Resource Management, International Business Administration, Legal Studies in Business, and many more.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $16,274
#2 University of Pittsburgh College of Business Administration – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
The College of Business Administration at the University of Pittsburgh offers an exceptional Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration degree that is accredited by the esteemed AACSB International and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Princeton Review currently lists the university among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the Nation. They are also ranked #38 by US News and World Report for Best Undergraduate Business Programs. Graduates with bachelor’s degrees from Pitt report earning an average early pay of $53,300, and join an expansive network of alumni that totals over 307,000 former graduates. The cost of one year’s tuition and fees at the University of Pittsburgh averages $18,618. This affordable price point combined the school’s highly respected history, esteemed accreditations, and above average early pay in graduates make the undergraduate business program at the University of Pittsburgh an investment that students and parents can feel confident in.
The University of Pittsburgh is a four year, public, university located in the bustling city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The university is home to 28,649 students each year and offers over 100 undergraduate degrees through 10 schools and colleges. The Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration degree through the College of Business Administration is one that is focused on community, leadership, and exceedingly high expectations. The majors offered to BSBA students include: Accounting, Business Information Systems, Finance, Global Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management. Students enrolled in the undergraduate business program at the University of Pittsburgh can expect personalized career development assistance, study abroad opportunities, as well as, a variety interactive and student centered courses and activities.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $18,618
#1 Penn State Smeal College of Business – University Park, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University offers a highly recognized and prestigiously accredited undergraduate business program. The university is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Smeal College of Business also holds additional accreditation through the esteemed AACSB International. US News and World Report currently ranks Penn State #23 in the Best Undergraduate Business School category, and the Princeton Review named the university among the Best Northeastern Colleges in the nation. The average cost of tuition and fees for one year of attendance is an affordable $17,900. With an average early career pay for graduates holding their bachelor’s of $54,300, a degree from Pennsylvania State University is one that is sure to see a definite return on investment.
Penn State University opened its doors in 1855 and has since grown to become the largest university in the state of Pennsylvania with an enrollment of over 47,307 students each year. There are over 160 majors offered through the university’s 24 campuses. Students seeking their undergraduate business degree can earn their diploma through the highly recognized Smeal College of Business. This prestigious program is exceptionally student centered and works to assure that students find a degree path that is the best fit to meet their individual goals. The college offers eight distinct majors in the areas of: Accounting, Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Finance, Management, Management Information Systems, Marketing, Risk Management, and Supply Chain & Information Systems. Penn State University was selected as the number one university on our list because of their prestige, distinguished accreditation status, and high return on investment potential.
Estimated tuition and fees for one year: $17,900
Ranking Methodology
This ranking is designed to find the best undergraduate business school available in the state of Pennsylvania. The US has a listing of 1,664 schools offering bachelor’s programs in the area of business administration. For the state of Pennsylvania, a list of 115 schools was obtained and then evaluated based on the following four criteria:
Accreditation: Researching accreditation is always an important step when researching business schools. Accreditation can directly affect educational value and degree brand recognition, and thus can help students narrow down potential undergraduate business school choices. Each undergraduate program in this ranking is accredited by one of the six regional accrediting organizations recognized by the US Department of Education, specifically the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Each business school was additionally ranked upon whether it holds an additional third-party business accreditation from one of the top business school accrediting agencies: IACBE, ACBSP, and AACSB. AACSB is generally regarded as the most prestigious and rigorous business accreditation, thus the business schools that hold this accreditation are given the highest scores.
Affordability: As college tuition costs keep escalating, affordability is a consistent concern among many college students and parents. Each business school within this list has been evaluated on the average undergraduate tuition and fees reported by the National Center for Education Statistics for full-time undergraduate students. When a college offers an in-state and an out-of-state tuition rate, the in-state tuition is used in order to offer the lowest tuition available and the highest ROI. The lowest average tuition and fees for one academic year recorded in this ranking is $9,618, the highest came in at $52,310, with the average resting at $30,824.
Average alumni salary: Obtaining a bachelor’s degree offer long-term benefits. One major benefit of a college degree is the future financial returns from a career the degree will make possible. This data was collected from PayScale’s College Salary Report, to find the average early-career salary reported by recent bachelor’s graduates from each college or university. The highest early-career salary reported and used in this ranking is $69,400, with the average resting at $49,824.
Prestige: This data was collected from two of the most highly-regarded educational ranking sources, US News and World Report and The Princeton Review. Schools were valued on their ranking within the US News and World Report’s Best Undergraduate Business Program Ranking and whether they were included in the Princeton Review’s Best Northeastern Colleges Ranking.
All the data was collected, weighted equally, and then averaged for this ranking to find the Top 25 Undergraduate Business Schools in Pennsylvania.
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