2024 Best Colleges for Music in Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  13 reviews

Alum: PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE... The ONLY way to greatness is to PRACTICE relentlessly and dedicate yourself with the drive it takes to improve. You must push yourself every day, ALL day long in order to extract ALL that Curtis has to offer. Embrace the environment to the uttermost, because it will be the ONLY time you have available to reach the pinnacle necessary to get onto the roster of a major symphony orchestra. Because you are in "rarified air" you must maintain both a level of humility as well as adopt the outlook that you can EXECUTE any composition to which you are exposed. Remember, Bernstein attended Curtis and he became a LEGEND for all time... being a great pianist, one of the greatest conductors of all time, as well as a brilliant Americana composer. When following in the footsteps of GREATNESS, you too and reach the Summit... IF you apply yourself.... Read 13 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 5%

• Net price $19,002

• SAT range —

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,465 reviews

Alum: I went to CMU for undergraduate and graduate school. As an undergraduate science major, I often had trouble completing my assignments despite being the valedictorian of my high school. Many years later I realized the school was trying to teach us how to problem solve, learn things on our own, and get used to the feeling of being lost. In another word, they were training us to be leaders and pioneers. In hindsight, I wish we had career and academic counselors assigned to each student at CMU so we could talk to someone when we were struggling. Tepper was an entirely difference experience. It was hard work, but I got excellent career support and I didn't feel as lost as I did at Mellon College of Science. My Tepper education went a long way in helping me to pass all three levels of CFA exams on my first try. Thank Goodness! After six years at CMU, I was completely prepared to tackle any projects that came my way. I guess all that hard work was worth it.... Read 1,465 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $37,450

• SAT range 1480-1560

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  690 reviews

Alum: The professors and student body at University of the Arts are absolutely wonderful. I graduated from the animation program, and over my four years attending UArts, I learned so many invaluable things about my craft. UArts is in center city, directly on Broad Street, so there is a lot to do nearby, and the area is pretty safe. However, the administration at UArts is a mess. I had many frustrating experiences just trying to get basic information or documents, with emails oftentimes going unanswered for weeks. The staff is also not paid nearly enough for all they do, which has consistently served as an upset for myself and the rest of the student body. My experience, I would say, was positive, but there are areas of the school that require significant work and refinement.... Read 690 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $25,932

• SAT range 910-1140

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  3,134 reviews

Sophomore: I would say the only downside is that you have to be pretty headstrong about your college career decisions. Especially with the Cooperative Education at Drexel, you are expected to stay ahead of the curve and be ready for the workforce, simultaneously keeping advisors and professors in the loop about exactly how you need to organise your classes. The great thing about it applies to students who know how to go out and get what they’re looking for and are self-reliant. I recommend making friends with your professors and being willing to work outside of the bounds of Drexel, because the system is pretty good at following your lead!... Read 3,134 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $26,076

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  5,763 reviews

Senior: I LOVE Temple University! Most of my professors have been nice, fair, knowledgeable and even passionate about what they teach. Temple has a gym on campus, which offers group fitness classes including yoga, cycling, and meditation, included in tuition fees. The healthcare I received on campus has always been stellar. The Disability Resource Services offered have been stellar, and the 24-hour TECH Center is a pleasure to spend days in while studying and working on projects. Temple has an app now where you can request a chaperoned walk home in person or virtually, as well as a nightly shuttle that circulates around the edges of campus for those in off-campus housing. Our Marching Band was one of my favorite extra curriculars offering an annual stipend when you join and you get to perform synchronized dances to pop songs at home games on Philly Eagles turf at the LINC. Temple has a strong community feel that makes you want to wear Temple gear and represent no matter your niche. GO OWLS!... Read 5,763 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,224

• SAT range 1010-1230

• Annville, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  584 reviews

Sophomore: Lebanon Valley College is setting me up for success in life. LVC is a private college that ranks #1 is PA for job placement consistently. I love how small the school is, students can have personalized attention with the professors. I have gained valuable connections and will be doing research on chemotherapy this upcoming school year, and I’m only going to be a sophomore! I cant speak much on other departments but the science department is strong and rigorous. I am a neuroscience/pre med major hoping to get into med school to be a doctor/surgeon one day and I can say that these science courses challenge me, and I graduated 3rd in my high school. I feel as though I will be well prepared when I get into med school. LVC is a beautiful place and is very generous when it comes to financial aid. I got the Allwein scholarship, so my tuition is taken care of, but the school gives everyone big financial aid packages, the better your GPA in high school the more money they will give you.... Read 584 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $26,944

• SAT range 1080-1290

• Phoenixville, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  377 reviews

Sophomore: My overall experience with the University of Valley Forge has been incredibly positive and rewarding. From the moment I enrolled at the university, I felt welcomed and supported by the faculty, staff, and my fellow students. Academically, the University of Valley Forge has exceeded my expectations. The professors are knowledgeable, passionate, and genuinely care about their students' success. They have not only provided me with a strong foundation in my chosen field of study but have also challenged me to think critically and develop my problem-solving skills. The small class sizes have allowed for meaningful interactions with professors and classmates, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The campus itself is beautiful and well-maintained. The facilities, including the library, laboratories, and classrooms, are equipped with modern technology and resources, enhancing the learning experience.... Read 377 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $23,944

• SAT range 790-1050

• Mechanicsburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,288 reviews

Senior: It is a christian university and there are many great things about it. However, many of the students who attend lack maturity and it can be disappointing when trying to find good christian relationships. Despite this, there are some great things on campus. Including prayer group and powerhouse. As far as the majors, I have experience in 6 different majors. The Bible program can be intense but it is good. Our music major is okay, but definitely more band focused than choir. Our business and athletic departments are both amazing and I have loved every moment and interaction in these departments. I have also heard wonderful things about our nursing department from friends but I personally am not a part of it. Overall, it is a good school, but if you are a conservative, be prepared for a lot of left wing views. Especially when it comes to study abroad, it is a great program but do not even consider it if you are not vaccinated for covid. Good luck choosing a school and God bless!... Read 1,288 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $23,895

• SAT range 1100-1340

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,498 reviews

Junior: I am a junior in Duquesne's nursing program and I cannot say enough good things about this school, at least academic wise. Professors know your name and genuinely want to see you succeed. Classwork is challenging but always helps me learn. Clinicals start early and help you feel confident in your skills by the time you enter your immersion. The campus is beautiful and in an excellent location that has allowed me to work a part-time job since my freshman year even without a car on campus. The food leaves a lot to be desired, which I why I mostly cook for myself now, as do the freshman dorms, but if you can get into Brottier or St. Martin's as an upperclassman, you're set. There are plenty of clubs and organizations on campus that have allowed me to meet friend and even serve in leadership roles. Duquesne is a great choice if you want a mid-sized, urban college where you'll get a great education!... Read 1,498 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,505

• SAT range 1140-1310

• Greensburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  922 reviews

Senior: Seton Hill is a truly peaceful place to study and be at. It is one of the most beautiful universities I have ever visited. The faculty are all amazing, and truly helpful. The only downside of Seton Hill is the cost per semester, it is crazily expensive. So I recommend saving, FAFSA, and applying for scholarships. I wish applying through FAFSA with the school, and getting certain TAX records were better communicated at times. So far as my academic experience it has been absolutely wonderful. Each of my professors took the time to get to know me personally. They actually care for their students, and take the time to make sure you are understanding the lectures and assignments. My professor helped me explore career options, and helped me find my true calling for my career.... Read 922 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $22,424

• SAT range 900-1150

• Selinsgrove, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  848 reviews

Alum: Loved my experience at SU! It's such a homey place, with lots of extra curricular options and autonomy in path of study. The power levels are not far apart, the university president is a casual, supportive face you see on campus frequently. The norm established of everyone studying abroad and taking GO classes enhance the entire community's cultural knowledge and appreciation. I will say that living on campus for 4 years and therefore having expensive dining plans made it more expensive, although the food was decent. I love that the school values global citizenship and the environment (hello, solar field). I do wish Susquehanna did better to educate students and community about and honor the indigenous people the school and river it sits near are named after. I am grateful that there have been moves made toward this, but there is a long way to go.... Read 848 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 77%

• Net price $28,130

• SAT range 1020-1230

• Millersville, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,511 reviews

Junior: My overall experience at Millersville University has been great! The faculty, staff, students, and everyone in the community gave me a great sense of belonging. Student engagement, clubs/organizations, programs, and events have all contributed to a fun college experience. Overall, the quality of education is great and tuition is quite affordable compared to other institutions. To top it all off, a fun fact about our current president is that he is the king of a tribe in Africa.... Read 1,511 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $17,995

• SAT range 1000-1220

• West Chester, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,825 reviews

Junior: So far while being at West Chester University I have had wonderful professors in the early grades preparation major. You can tell that the professors are dedicated and love what they do. They are there to make you the best educator you can be. As well as none education professors, all the professors on campus are there for your success and want what is best for you. West Chester also offers so many fun opportunities for students. Being apart of an organization on campus, I get to witness all the hard work that is put into these fun opportunities, clubs, and organizations for students to be involved in!... Read 1,825 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $14,133

• SAT range 1070-1250

• Indiana, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  2,712 reviews

Sophomore: I wanted independence and time alone to spend doing the things I wanted, figuring out who I am and what I want to do when I came to IUP. Since I always wanted to travel and explore different places my decision of choosing IUP wasn’t regrettable. While being alone for the first time was overwhelming and brought with it many responsibilities, I slowly began to enjoy doing those tasks as it kept me busy during the day. My time at IUP has given me great friends, a space to let my mind wander, and the opportunity to learn about hobbies and interests without question. Still, I have a long way to go and more to learn about. In the process of coming out of my shell, I'm still figuring out certain aspects of living as I go along. At IUP, you have different varieties of clubs, sports and entertainment, there are amazing places to unwind and relax or hang out with friends after a long day at Oak Grove, the pool, the hub and even the gym! There’s diversity all around you and lots of pizza.... Read 2,712 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $21,153

• SAT range 940-1140

• Mansfield, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.48 out of 5  913 reviews

Sophomore: Mansfield is a small school with only about 2,000 students. For as small as it may be, the education that my professors give to their students is incredible. Not to mention the music program is phenomenal. I am in marching band and have only worked with two music professors, but I have been to every concert type and am blown away each time I attend. Mansfield University also has a great community, with many clubs and events advertised to students. I would love to see an upgrade in the dining situation. As a nutrition major, I believe it is important to have many options for any dietary needs. Although this is a small school, I am sure that there is s way to come up with a better dining plan than the one we have now. All in all, I have enjoyed my time here so far, and am excited to go back this August!... Read 913 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $13,168

• SAT range 970-1150

• California, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.45 out of 5  1,488 reviews

Sophomore: PennWest California has given me quite the experience so far! Not only do I feel so welcomed in the community because I know some friends from high school, but also all of the staff and educators are so very welcoming and understanding. I love the organization of classes and also how my professors are extremely systematic with their lectures, and they make sure we get the most out of the lesson. Fixating on change, I feel that for the most part, everything should stay as it is. The only slightly concerning factor is the amount of classes that are online. Some of us find online classes difficult, depending on the class, and this can be stressful.... Read 1,488 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $20,317

• SAT range 940-1150

• University Park, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  7,467 reviews

Alum: I love nearly everything about this school! The sports are great, there are major entertainment events, art and religion are honored, there are over 1,000 student organizations, and I have had incredible professors consistently throughout my years (although peers in other majors did not always say this). In the area, there is hiking, skiing, several summer festivals, several thrift stores, and a high proportion of restaurants with different ethnic cuisines. Recommendation for change are prioritizing updates to dorm buildings and increasing accessibility to groceries downtown, as this is where a large number of students live (without their cars). It has many international students, but is otherwise limited in diversity. It mostly reflects the state/region, so I do not see this as something that necessarily needs to change.... Read 7,467 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $26,151

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Slippery Rock, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  1,587 reviews

Junior: Slippery Rock has been an amazing college so far and I have enjoyed my time here. I transferred into their program as a second-semester sophomore. They worked with me to accept and transfer all of my existing credits and provided me with two scholarships for my first year. Their campus accommodations including food, housing, and leisure have been diverse and easily accessible. I would love for Slippery Rock to provide more parking. They also have extensive on-campus healthcare options, and a gym for wellness opportunities. Due to the size of the campus, it is easy to make friends and interact with teachers on a one-on-one basis. However, the campus is still large enough that there's always someone new to meet, and the ability to avoid people you don't like! For a state school, the price point is perfect and I've loved my time here so far.... Read 1,587 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $12,364

• SAT range 970-1170

• Lewisburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  794 reviews

Junior: Freshman year was rough due to Covid restrictions. Each year has gotten better, especially the food! The administration actually listened to the complaints and ungraded the selections. The campus is beautiful, but Lewisburg is a small town so aside from a few bars and restaurants there is not much to do in town. The trade off is that it is very safe. Greek life is big, but anyone can get involved and if you are not interested in the party scene there is still a lot to do on campus. The academics are challenging but most of my professors have been great and always willing to help those who are struggling. There are also many opportunities for free tutoring. The housing is variable...some dorms are nicer than others, but the school guarantees housing all 4 years.... Read 794 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 35%

• Net price $38,170

• SAT range 1270-1450

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  1,034 reviews

Freshman: CCP is a public college located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is a small institution with an enrollment of 4,760 undergraduate students. The CCP acceptance rate is 100%. Popular majors include Liberal Arts and Humanities, Business, and Health Service Preparatory Studies. Graduating 18% of students, CCP alumni go on to earn a starting salary of $25,700. Student-Teacher ratio are always reasonable. Not too little, and not too much. Just enough for me as a sole student to have a conversation with each other, peer understanding, share knowledge and to make friends! Everyone who works here are all accommodating, they even will go beyond to help you. Tutors are the best as well! The school offers a lot of resources and opportunities to help students get by - be that academically, food-wise, community services, and even filing our taxes! Don't forget that the professors are awesome! The students were very diverse and came from different racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds.... Read 1,034 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,612

• SAT range —

• Harrisburg, PA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,045 reviews

Alum: This college provides me with a great learning experience— whether that was learning new course material, being able to ask questions and have them answered thoughtfully, or learn my own work flow. As an art major, sticking with any college through the pandemic seemed like it was going to be tricky, but with HACC, the experience was better than I had thought it would be. I really appreciate that the professors were passionate about what they were teaching and shared life experiences throughout the courses. I appreciate the facilities that were provided to learn in, all the while being able to actually afford college. Being half online, and half in person, I would say that the strictly online courses gave very minimal chances to get to know the professors. However I do appreciate the inclusion of remote courses after the format during the pandemic. I am very thankful for Hacc, and had a very pleasant experience earning my associates degree there, even through a very rough time!... Read 1,045 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,147

• SAT range —

• York, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.52 out of 5  1,288 reviews

Senior: I’ve been hearing a lot of talk about how college is not worth the money and there are better career paths that don’t require going down the college path, but York college has been extremely eye opening. It offers endless opportunities to network yourself and 24/7 access to things like a sports emporium, writing center, and a huge cafeteria. The only reason this is not a 5 star is simply because the requirements of constellation classes (classes that must be completed in order to graduate that don’t have to do with your major or minor sometimes). Aside from that I started at York college as a freshman and am currently a senior and have throughly enjoyed my experience and will cherish many memories from the endless clubs I’ve joined and friends I’ve met!... Read 1,288 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $22,543

• SAT range 1010-1220

• Blue Bell, PA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  623 reviews

Sophomore: I am going to be a second-year student at Montgomery County Community College this semester at the Blue Bell campus. In-person, the faculty is extremely welcoming and the quality of learning is great! I struggle with anxiety yet nobody made me feel uncomfortable or that I was out-of-place. The professors are extremely understanding and are willing to work with you if you ever need assistance. Unfortunately, I couldn't say the same for the online classes. I took summer classes this year and it was very difficult. The professors were not easy to contact and the workload was hard to manage. However, despite these challenges, the students in my classes were very helpful. We had the same issues most of the time and we worked through them together. Overall, I would recommend enrolling here because I had mostly positive experiences and I learned a lot of valuable information. I also pay a fraction of the price that I would at a four-year school.... Read 623 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,093

• SAT range —

• Gettysburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  627 reviews

Alum: I attended Gettysburg in the mid-90's and truly believe it was a life changing experience for me. The education, access to professors, and facilities are top notch. I still miss the beauty of the campus, running in the battlefields and those Gettysburg sunsets! But what really sets Gettysburg apart are the people and the alumni network. I graduated with a degree in political science with the intention of going to law school, but at the last minute pivoted and decided to enter the workforce. Through alumni connections, I was able to get an interview with a senior exec who worked in banking/finance. He took a chance on me and I was able to parlay that first job into a successful 25 year career in investment management. Gettysburg taught me to think critically, develop strong writing and communication skills, and to be well rounded and intellectually curious. Oh, and I had a blast and made great friendships along the way!... Read 627 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $35,794

• SAT range 1280-1430

• Erie, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,068 reviews

Alum: The campus is beautiful, and the dorms and classrooms are nice. The teachers in the math department are very difficult and it seems as if most non-math majors take their math requirements elsewhere or online. Even the advisors tell students not to even attempt calc at our school. The biology department does great research and has many opportunities if you would like to get involved, but it seems as if funding will continue to be cut for these programs, so who knows how long these opportunities will be readily available. The biology program is amazing if you are looking for human based biology, but any environmental biology or related subjects I would 100% recommend looking elsewhere. My partner ended up in their environmental science program and it looked super cool from the outside, but when it came to scheduling classes, he struggled to keep even a full-time schedule because most of the classes listed were not actually offered.... Read 1,068 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $25,785

• SAT range 940-1160