2024 Best Colleges for Religious Studies in Pennsylvania

• Haverford, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  263 reviews

Alum: The campus is large and beautiful. There are plenty of places to lounge or study. There isn't a core curriculum, so trying different fields of interest is very easy and encouraged. It is relatively seamless to transition between majors. The professors are incredibly kind and thoughtful. One of my main complaints is that for some majors, the program is fully developed with a multitude of courses, professors, and class times. But for other majors, there are much fewer resources and course electives.... Read 263 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $24,462

• SAT range 1420-1540

• Clarks Summit, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.06 out of 5  222 reviews

Sophomore: I absolutely loved the gorgeous campus and the kind people the greeted me on this campus! The education is very high quality, and the dorms are so welcoming to new students. Each building is unique and the view is amazing since we are in the mountains. They offer many great majors that are Christ-focused and prepares the students to server Christ with a Biblical mindset, not matter your major. One thing I would say they could change is the lack of storage on campus as there are many out-of-state students who have to make ends meet elsewhere. Overall it is a great school and a great community!... Read 222 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 58%

• Net price $17,216

• SAT range 873-1126

• Lancaster, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  291 reviews

Freshman: I am an incoming freshman at Lancaster Bible College for the fall of 2023. From the moment I applied, LBC admissions, students, and coaches reached out weekly. They have made me feel accepted and cared for since the moment I became a part of the school. I have completed my orientation and registration day which was a tremendous experience. They really care about their students and see them the whole way through their years there.... Read 291 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 96%

• Net price $22,700

• SAT range 1010-1210

• 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

• Langhorne, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  539 reviews

Freshman: As a high school senior, I did not know what to expect when visiting a college or university. But I will say, Cairn University has exceeded my expectations in an incredible way. Not only is the student body incredibly welcoming, accepting and kind, but the faculty is amazing too! In the few times that I have been on the campus, everyone has been so encouraging to me, not only as a prospective student, but as an individual. When visiting classes, the professors actually allowed me to participate! I feel that the way the faculty interacts with the students is what makes Cairn so successful. The students have the support they need to persevere in their work, no matter how rigorous the class.The school offers so many opportunities to participate in activities even outside class. A great way to make solid friendships and to be involved. I even read a report that Cairn is the 3rd safest school in the nation! I am really looking forward to doing my undergraduate work at Cairn.... Read 539 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $26,380

• SAT range 1000-1250

• 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

• Pittsburgh, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  4,295 reviews

Freshman: University of Pittsburgh is a great school with many diverse tools students can utilize to get the best out of their time here. From a wide range of studies to a vast option of clubs, University of Pittsburgh allows students to instantly feel connected to the school. In addition, the University of Pittsburgh has fantastic resources especially for Pre-Health related careers. With the UPMC building nearby, you can obtain your medical hours right on campus! You can easily contact a faculty member within the Pre-Health department to discuss the best academic path for you. The campus holds a variety of recreational spots including restaurants, museums, and cafes to study at. However, in the future, I hope to see the university improve their communication with their students regarding Panther Central. Panther Central is Pitt's main communication line where students can ask anything from housing to transportation. Unfortunately, the faculty takes a long time responding to students' emails.... Read 4,295 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $22,996

• SAT range 1250-1470

• Saint Davids, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  875 reviews

Junior: When I first arrived at Eastern University I was fascinated by the nature. It is a very beautiful campus filled with many animals, flowers, and life. As I became more involved with campus activities, I found it easy to make friends, talk to professors, and find stuff to do. SAB runs many events where students are able to go to Flyers games, Phillies games, and Washington D.C. Another thing I love is how Eastern is super diverse and gives everyone an opportunity to be themselves and make an impact. All in all, my three years at Eastern have been amazing, and I can't wait to make more memories!... Read 875 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $24,199

• SAT range 1010-1190

• Beaver Falls, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  730 reviews

Alum: It is a wonderful and small campus, which is exactly what I needed. I had some of the most incredible professors, and learned so much about myself and my own beliefs and goals in life. It is highly reformed Presbyterian, which doesn’t line up with me at all, but they encouraged me to figure out my own views instead of having to conform to theirs. I was a Youth Ministries major and loved the program! It’s a very safe campus, and the only real complaint I have is how horrible the sports are. The rugby team was a blast, but I refused other sports because of poor quality. My freshman year was awesome, and I felt very accepted and included, which is rare for an autistic person.... Read 730 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $19,895

• SAT range 1020-1240

• 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

• Allentown, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  500 reviews

Freshman: Muhlenberg has been an AWESOME place for me and my peers to thrive. There are so many different types of people and it makes talking to new people easier. By connecting with people of other cultures, ethnicities, and experiences you become more well-rounded. It's a welcoming community where you're bound to make friends with like-minded students. I would recommend visiting or checking out Muhlenberg College to see if it's the place for you!... Read 500 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $30,920

• SAT range 1200-1370

• Grove City, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,052 reviews

Junior: I love the community at Grove City College! Everyone is extremely welcoming and encouraging! I am also very thankful for the many resources made available to me here at the college which prompt me to succeed in my academic career. Additionally, I really appreciate the availability of the professors to meet with me one on one if I have any questions about their class. There are so many opportunities made available to students through the college such as numerous clubs/organizations to join, student-led short-term mission trips (ICO trips), and Bible studies/worship events around campus! While the academic work is rigorous, there are tons of people surrounding you who are willing to help, and there are also many resources that are provided to aid you in your studies. Overall, my experience here at Grove City College has been positive and filled with lots of growth, not only in knowledge from my classes but also in my love for the Lord!... Read 1,052 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $21,846

• SAT range 1130-1380

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  5,765 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 5,765 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $23,224

• SAT range 1010-1230

• University Park, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  7,472 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 7,472 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $26,151

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Greensburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  923 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 923 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 74%

• Net price $22,424

• SAT range 900-1150

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,085 reviews

Junior: Saint Joseph's University is a private Catholic university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including business, liberal arts, sciences, and health professions. The university is known for its strong commitment to Jesuit values, emphasizing a holistic education, social justice, and community service. Students at Saint Joseph's have access to diverse academic resources, experiential learning opportunities, and a supportive campus community. The university's location in Philadelphia provides students with rich cultural experiences and opportunities for internships and networking.... Read 1,085 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $33,438

• SAT range 1120-1310

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $9,889

• SAT range —

• Gettysburg, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  629 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 629 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $35,794

• SAT range 1280-1430

• Bethlehem, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  506 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, I really enjoy the campus life and the close knit community that Moravian has cultivated. However, if you do live on campus the food and access to food is very limited along with some of the dorming is not ideal and the conditions of freshman dorms are not up to par when considering the price tag attached to both the meal plan and the housing costs. The education is stellar, and majority of the professors are super kind and helpful. The classes and workload is challenging, but in the long term this is a good thing because you learn a lot! Everyone in the student body is very kind and it is very easy to fit in when it comes to the social scene at Moravian.... Read 506 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $32,020

• SAT range 1050-1200

• Philadelphia, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,333 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 1,333 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $14,578

• SAT range 1480-1570

• Villanova, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  1,553 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 1,553 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $33,123

• SAT range 1350-1490

• 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

• Bethlehem, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  923 reviews

Sophomore: I love the sense of community feel to the school. I like the medium size of the school where you don't feel like a number. The academics are pretty strong, especially the engineering and the CSB programs. Lehigh is also known to have a really good alumni network and really good financial aid packages for those who want need-based opportunities. It does get pretty cold but you'll get used to it. However, it is a slight culture shock that many rich people attend the school but the social scene I feel is fine but is centered around Greek Life, however, you'll find the people you like! The surrounding area is okay, I feel the Northside of Bethlehem is better but not at all a dangerous area, still pretty safe for the most part, just be aware of your surroundings. I am also a minority too and I feel that the political and racial climate is fine, but there is still some microaggressions one can face but I never have felt unsafe. Overall, a really great school and worth it for job outlook!... Read 923 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $31,539

• SAT range 1290-1490

• 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

• Middletown, PA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  679 reviews

Senior: One thing I love about Penn State is that they have a lot of resources and opportunities for their students. As someone who transferred in from a local community college, I was pleasantly surprised during my first year at Penn State at all the ways in which the college helped support its students. During my time at Penn State, I have been able to find opportunities to work and do research in my field, as well as create a close network of friends and mentors that I can turn to for support and advice. Although I would like to see more scholarships and financial support for students, as the cost of higher education can be quite high, I do believe that once I graduate from Penn State, I will be leaving with a lot of skills and resources that will allow me to succeed and even excel in my chosen field.... Read 679 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $22,306

• SAT range 1050-1290