A high school senior in a green dress walks through tall flowering grasses at sunset

Find 5 Great Colleges Near Erie, PA For Your Education Journey

Maybe I’m a little biased, but Erie, Pennsylvania, is one of the best spots in the entire country. While the downtown gives you a vibrant urban space, the area still manages to feel like a small town. It’s truly the best of both worlds! It also has some pretty great options for college, whether you’re a life-long resident or are looking for a brand new place to call your home. As an Erie senior photographer, I get the chance to chat with both incoming students and recent college grads. Here are the colleges near Erie, PA, they have loved. 

5 Colleges Near Erie, PA To Explore For Your Dream Education

Gannon University

109 University Square, Erie, Pennsylvania 16541

Gannon University has a college in Erie, PA as well as another in Ruskin, Florida. They also have plenty of virtual options. This college offers a rich student life with over 159 student clubs and organizations. The Erie location has programs in accounting, communication, business studies, computer sciences, education, fine arts, nursing, public health, and more. They also have several Master’s programs. 

A smiling high school senior in a red top walks through a field of wildflowers with hands in her jean pockets after visiting colleges near erie pa

Mercyhurst University

501 East 38th Street, Erie, Pennsylvania 16546

Mercyhurst University is a Catholic, liberal arts college that serves as an inclusive space for Erie, PA students of all backgrounds. They welcome diversity and use their faith as a force of good within the world. The school offers tons of opportunities for their students. There are over 3,000 students on campus, and 25% are involved with sports. There are over 60 undergraduate majors and 10 graduate programs. 

Penn State Behrend

4701 College Drive, Erie, Pennsylvania 16563

Penn State Behrend is a satellite campus of Penn State University. This college has been recognized as one of the best value colleges in the Erie, PA area, bringing all the prestige of Penn State while having lower cost options. The campus has over 4,000 students and rests on 850 scenic acres. They offer schools in business, engineering, humanities and social sciences, and science. They also have five master’s programs. 

Erie County Community College

2403 W 8th Street, Erie, Pennsylvania 16505

Erie County Community College is a fantastic option for Erie, PA students who want to work on their gen-eds. The school has a wide selection of two-year programs as well as post-secondary career certificates and technical courses. The college makes it a breeze to transfer credits to four-year schools, and their advisors will ensure you’re on the best path! 

A high school senior walks in a forest with wildflowers in a beige top and jeans after visiting colleges near erie pa

Allegheny College

520 North Main Street, Meadville, Pennsylvania 16335

Allegheny College is a private liberal arts college that is dedicated to allowing students to explore their interests. The school requires that students live on campus throughout their tenure, giving you plenty of ways to get connected with your classmates and the college itself. You will also have the opportunity to study at one of their abroad campuses. The school has a nature reserve that you’ll be able to explore when you need a break. They offer a long list of majors and provide you with real-world experience. 

You Will Love Starting This New Chapter At One Of These Colleges Near Erie, PA

With these colleges near Erie, PA, you can have an exceptional education near one of the most gorgeous towns in the country. Once you find your place and want to plan a celebration, let’s chat! As an Erie senior photographer, I adore working with students to honor all their accomplishments. If you’re interested, I would love to have a conversation and tell you more about my sessions so you can decide if I’m the photographer for you!

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