Peirce College
Peirce College is a private-nonprofit university located in Philadelphia, PA. It is a small institution with approximately 1,754 undergraduate students. Annual tuition for out-of-state students is $17,040. The graduation rate is 22.2%.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.3
- Size
- Small (1,754 students)
- Type
- Private
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- urban
- Graduation Rate
- 22.2%
- Retention Rate
- 62.5%
- Tuition (In-State)
- $17,040
- Tuition (Int'l)
- $17,040
Academic Programs
STEM
Business
Arts
Humanities
Social Sciences
Other
Health
Key Highlights
- Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
- Located in a major metropolitan area with excellent opportunities
- Strong focus on undergraduate education
- Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Peirce College reflects its adult student population and urban commuter character. Unlike traditional residential colleges, Peirce does not offer dormitories or the typical collegiate social experience. Instead, students connect through classes, study groups, and professional networking opportunities that fit their busy lives. The college provides student support services recognizing that adult learners face challenges including work pressures, family obligations, and financial constraints that younger students may not encounter. Career services help students translate their education into job opportunities, with resources for resume development, interview preparation, and employer connections. The Center City location means students can explore Philadelphia's cultural offerings, restaurants, and neighborhoods before or after classes. Academic support includes tutoring, writing assistance, and technology help for students who may be returning to education after years away or adapting to online learning formats for the first time.
Location & Surroundings
Center City Philadelphia provides an ideal setting for a college serving working professionals, with the campus situated among the businesses, government offices, law firms, and healthcare institutions that employ many students and graduates. Philadelphia's status as one of America's largest cities means opportunities across virtually every industry exist within commuting distance. The city's extensive public transportation system, including subway, bus, and regional rail lines, makes the campus accessible from neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia and surrounding suburbs. The area around the college offers dining options, coffee shops, and services convenient for students grabbing a meal between work and class. Philadelphia's lower cost of living compared to New York or Washington makes it more feasible for students to pursue education while managing family budgets. The city's rich history, cultural institutions, and diverse neighborhoods provide a stimulating environment beyond the campus itself.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at Peirce College follows typical private college pricing, though the career-focused program lengths often result in lower total costs than four-year degrees at traditional institutions. Many students finance their education through federal financial aid, and the college assists students in navigating these programs. Employer tuition reimbursement benefits help some students cover costs, with the college working with employers on billing arrangements that ease cash flow challenges. The return on investment for Peirce degrees depends on students' fields and career progression, with healthcare and IT graduates often seeing salary increases that justify their educational investment. Career outcomes benefit from the college's long presence in the Philadelphia business community, with alumni in positions throughout local employers. The career services office provides ongoing support even after graduation, recognizing that career development is a lifelong process. Graduates often advance within organizations where they were already working or transition to new employers seeking the credentials their degrees provide.
Campus Location
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