2024 Best Colleges for Physics in the Philadelphia Area

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,339 reviews

Sophomore: As a University of Pennsylvania student, my experience has been transformative. The academic rigor and diverse courses allowed me to explore passions and develop critical thinking. Accessible and knowledgeable faculty shaped my journey, while the vibrant campus life fostered a sense of community among students from diverse backgrounds. I appreciate the emphasis on research opportunities, collaborating with renowned scholars, and Philadelphia's cultural scene, offering internships and networking. However, addressing the cost of attendance with more financial aid options and scholarships is essential for equal access. Moreover, enhancing inclusivity and support for underrepresented groups would strengthen our community further. Overall, UPenn has provided exceptional opportunities, but improvements can make it an even more accessible and inclusive institution for all students.... Read 1,339 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $14,578

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Swarthmore, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  424 reviews

Alum: Life changing. Not only because of the quality of professors and the teacher to student ratio, but because the student body is so extraordinary. Living with and around people who are major achievers rubs off on you. Being there raised my standards 1000% because that is what I had to do just to keep up. And that habit stayed with me for the rest of my life. It produced a wonderful, successful life and work experience. Proud to be a Swattie!... Read 424 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 8%

• Net price $19,733

• SAT range 1430-1560

• Haverford, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  267 reviews

Freshman: Haverford is one of the greatest and lovely college I have ever set my eyes on or experience . Experience can be highly individualised base on preferences. These some of my experience: First and foremost, good academic integrity in the school . The school promotes a culture of fairness and intellectual honesty, where students are encouraged to engage in rigorous academic pursuit whilst upholding to the highest standard in integrity. Moreover, Haverford commitment to inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives is one of my experience.The college create an environment where people from different background feels valued and supported. Inclusivity is highly valued at Haverford. Again,Haverford college reflects personal values and aspirations like fostering integrity, respect, inclusivity and intellectual growth. I am very happy to be part of a community that share these values and contribute to the vibrant and inclusive environment at Haverford college.... Read 267 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $24,462

• SAT range 1420-1540

• Bryn Mawr, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  450 reviews

Alum: Bryn Mawr College was a great home for me. Professors and staff care about students and student needs. I loved the self-governance aspect of the school where students got to make decisions concerning how the institution is run. I loved the sense of community, the beauty of the campus, and the skills I received to thrive beyond the walls of Bryn Mawr!... Read 450 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 39%

• Net price $34,482

• SAT range 1310-1500

• Villanova, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,555 reviews

Alum: Villanova is not a perfect school, but it was a great fit and wonderful experience for me! There are countless opportunities, good communication/posting of opportunities for students to be aware of and get involved in, and a great campus, relational feel to the school. Villanova is small enough to feel homey but large enough to continually meet new people or branch out and try new clubs, activities, etc. A common (and true) complaint is lack of diversity on campus. This is something to take into account but as an alum, I think the school is aware of it and has attempted to make strides to address it. I'd like to have seen the social scene change slightly; as someone who doesn't drink alcohol, it took some time to find like-minded people and find social opportunities that didn't feel centered around college drinking culture. I think this is a reality of many schools, not necessarily Villanova-specific. Overall, I loved Villanova and would choose to attend if I had to do it over again!... Read 1,555 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $33,123

• SAT range 1350-1490

• Newark, DE•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  3,604 reviews

Freshman: I believe that the University of Delaware is a 4/5 star school for many reasons! First and foremost, UD has a strong academic program. The professors are knowledgeable and engaging, and the course offerings are diverse and relevant. The school also has a number of resources available to help students succeed, including tutoring services, study groups, and writing centers. In addition to academics, UD has a vibrant campus life. There are a plethora of clubs and organizations to get involved in, as well as sporting events, concerts, and other social activities. The school is located in a beautiful and historic town, which provides plenty of opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Despite these positives, the food on campus can be a bit of a disappointment. While there are a few dining options that are decent, many of the options are overpriced and not particularly tasty. The dining halls in particular often have limited and unappealing options, and the quality can be hit or miss.... Read 3,604 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $19,122

• SAT range 1150-1340

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  3,149 reviews

Graduate Student: Drexel University has some awesome program directors who are committed to your success and will help you navigate their system by providing warm -handoffs to other departments if they cannot answer your questions directly. They have the student in mind, and provide tuition discounts with partnering organizations you are employed with. They have a great reputation for success and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my goal of becoming a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, and address the issue of maternal mortality in the U.S., and to be a Drexel University Dragon!... Read 3,149 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  5,780 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 5,780 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,224

• SAT range 1010-1230

• Glassboro, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  1,838 reviews

Senior: When I first came to Rowan University, it was amidst 2020 and the COVID lockdowns. Expectedly, Rowan University didn't handle this well, but what school did? My first year was absolutely atrocious, it genuinely felt as though I was imprisoned. All classes were online, no activities were schedule across campus in hopes of reducing the spread of the illness, and the food was bad. However, I truly got to see what this University had in store once these restrictions were lightened and eventually lifted. The professors are extremely welcoming and conversive, activities galore, and overall it became the college experience that I assume everyone would imagine. The only issue that I see is that commuters may have an issue with the school as parking can be limited at the time. If Rowan University fixed that issue then it would be perfect as in every other way they are always working towards their improvement!... Read 1,838 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $21,425

• SAT range 1070-1280

• Collegeville, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  482 reviews

Alum: I really enjoyed the small class sizes and the dedication and attentiveness of the professors. Academically, it's a great school, though I can only speak for the arts (my major was French literature), not science - and Ursinus is well-known for its focus on biology and the sciences. Being a language major, I wished that there were French courses in geopolitics, communication, and history, rather than solely literature. But I knew that going in. Socially, there was too much of an emphasis on Greek life, and hazing was rampant and unchecked by the school. Because of the small school size there also was not a lot going on and we used to complain about that, but looking back, that aspect forced us to be creative in the ways we spent our time. There were a good number of clubs, but silly 20-year-old me did not take advantage of those. It was also encouraged and really popular to study abroad, which was an amazing opportunity.... Read 482 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $31,438

• SAT range 1200-1360

• West Chester, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,834 reviews

Sophomore: West Chester University is a place that feels welcoming and encouraging. Not only do I feel happy on campus, but I am kindly encouraged to pursue education and knowledge, for the sake of finding a good career. WCU is prideful in their campus; living facilities, classrooms, professors, and their student’s accomplishments. Of my time at West Chester thus far, I am the most happy about the social environment. Students are friendly and encouraging to their peers to get involved. Not to mention, professors are personable, knowledgeable, and always willing to help. Although housing conflicts are a hot topic around campus, the traditional dorm living spaces themselves are just what a student needs. Maintenance issues are solved timely after a request, and RAs and Hall directors make the time living there very worth while. The dining services and food options throughout campus is plentiful. Not to mention campus’s location; making it convenient to walk into town and grab a bite. Rams up!... Read 1,834 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 89%

• Net price $14,133

• SAT range 1070-1250

• Camden, NJ•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  836 reviews

Sophomore: Faculty: The university boasts a dedicated and accomplished faculty comprising experienced professors and researchers who are often recognized for their contributions to their respective fields. Many faculty members are actively engaged in research and scholarship, providing students with opportunities for hands-on learning and collaboration. Civic Engagement: Rutgers University–Camden emphasizes civic engagement and community service. It encourages students to actively participate in service-learning initiatives, internships, and community-based research projects to make a positive impact in the local community and beyond. Campus Life: The university provides a vibrant campus life with a range of student organizations, clubs, and extracurricular. Location: Being located in Camden, the university benefits from its proximity to Philadelphia, one of the major cities in the United States.... Read 836 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $10,104

• SAT range 1040-1230

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.39 out of 5  575 reviews

Sophomore: Although I have only completed my first year of college at University of the Sciences, it was one of the best years of my life. Not only am I surrounded by fellow peers and classmates who have the same love and respect for education, but every staff member I have created a connection with work very hard to help us succeed in our courses! My professors made sure to involve themselves in every way, including check-ins, offering a helping hand, and genuine conversations involving life advice. Although my academic performance is a major priority, my mental and physical health was also a huge priority and frequently evaluated. Staff members took the time to make sure that their students were not only consumed by studies. This leads to many organizations, extra curriculars, clubs, and sports being created for students to have other hobbies during free time. With the care of experienced staff members, Usciences is a fun environment, but also a great place for success in higher education!... Read 575 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $29,948

• SAT range 1090-1340

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,088 reviews

Sophomore: Due to merging of a former college that I’ve been accepted to, there has been a lack of management and coordination in a lot of departments. The staff and instructors are awesome and try their best to manage with the situations. It’s slowly getting there and improvements have been coming along pretty noticeably, but it still needs more time and work. Considering the fact that they are operating multiple campuses, the only suggestion I would have is to try to integrate them together. Majority of the major events take place at the major campus and there is a lack of convenient transport between campuses. There can be some major improvements there is foster inclusivity and cooperation from everyone. They are actively providing us with new experience and expanding their offered science majors which is a plus in my eyes.... Read 1,088 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $33,438

• SAT range 1120-1310

• Abington, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  740 reviews

Sophomore: I loved my freshman year at PSU Abington! I engaged in many activities and the convenient location of campus near a major city like Philadelphia also allowed me to be actively involved in community development and my jobs. The professors at Abington are very supportive and understanding. The community at campus is very resourceful - for example, the Counseling and Psychological Services department, student services, etc are all very well equipped to support each student in succeeding!... Read 740 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $18,792

• SAT range 1010-1270

• Chester, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  812 reviews

Senior: My Widener University experience has been everything but bland. The opportunities are endless, from research trips, to campus jobs, access to experiences in my field, celebrating homecoming, or cheering on our basketball team as they became 2023 MAC Commonwealth Champions this year. As an involved student, with a Physics, Secondary Education major, and a Mathematics minor, Widener made it easy for me to have success both inside and outside of the classroom. I have had opportunities in the field such as substitute teaching in a local school district, and I was able to take a research trip to another state and collaborate with other students through astronomy research. Outside of school, I have the opportunity to work on campus as an ambassador, participate in community service, and meet some of my best friends who I attend sporting events, bingo, or other activities around campus with! I appreciates Widener's dedication to academics as well as other enriching college experiences.... Read 812 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $25,343

• SAT range 1080-1240

• Lincoln University, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.4 out of 5  860 reviews

Alum: My overall experience at Lincoln was one to remember. It was definitely one of the best decisions I made as far as my athletic and academic career goes. The campus is very family oriented and the student life is lit! Now every school has there down falls in some categories, but I can say that Lincoln does their very best in trying to accommodate and meet the needs of the students. The professors, staff, and faculty also do an exceptional job when it comes to learning. They give hands on experience and challenge you everyday in the classroom to be able to critically think and make the best decisions. Because the university isn’t as big, its easy to make good relationships with your peers, as well as faculty and staff. Lincoln provides many resources and networking opportunities to students to help set them up for success. I would highly recommend anybody looking for a great college experience as far as student life and academics to give Lincoln a high consideration. I love my HBCU!... Read 860 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $14,513

• SAT range 890-1020