Bryn Mawr, Haverford and Swarthmore draw students from around the globe. Founded by Quakers, the three colleges educate students to be future leaders and scholars.
Bryn Mawr enrolls approximately 1,300 undergraduate women each year, including alumni like actress Katherine Hepburn and Nobel Peace Prize winner, Emily Balch. At Haverford, biology and psychology are two of the most popular majors. In fact, many students use these programs as preparation for medical school, law school and other professional schools. Swarthmore College is one of the nation's first co-ed colleges. It offers many unique programs and services, including the Genocide Intervention Network.
The College Board defines a "small college" as one with enrollment under 2,000. Within 20 miles of downtown Philly, there are approximately 12 of these institutions. Five colleges are specialized, including two technical institutes, one upper-level health sciences college, one art school and one music school.
With just under 250 students, Metropolitan Career Center Computer Technology Institute offers three associate of science degrees and one diploma program in medical office specialist studies.
As a two-year private, career college, Orleans Technical Institute trains students in three areas, including court reporting, human services and building trades. Students can earn a trades diploma in as little as six months.
Accredited by Middle States, Thomas Jefferson University: College of Health Professions offers associate to doctoral programs in basic sciences, health sciences, medicine, nursing and pharmacy.
Moore College of Art and Design is an all-female private college within the city limits of Philadelphia. Sixty-four percent of applicants are admitted into graduate and undergraduate programs, ranging from art history to photography.
Curtis Institute of Music, trains approximately 165 performing artists through the "learn by doing" approach. In fact, musicians borrow grand pianos throughout their stay at Curtis.
Students looking for a Christian education may choose Valley Forge Christian College, while business students may enroll at Goldey-Beacom College in Delaware -- just under 35 miles from Philly. However, Cheyney University is unique, since it is the oldest of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities in America. Cheyney is located 32 miles from downtown.
Proprietary, or for-profit schools, are another option for adults. These schools, including Prism Career Institute, usually emphasize career or vocational education. The Institute offers certificate, diploma and associate programs; however, not all career schools offer degrees. Lastly, St. Charles Borromeo Seminary -- Overbrook and Talumidical Yeshiva educate individuals to become religious leaders.