Welcome to Pennsylvania best medical schools. Our rankings are based on alumni reviews, research scores received, peer institution assessment and admissions statistics including averaged MCAT scores, undergraduate GPA as well as acceptance rates. Below we list top medical schools in Pennsylvania that are top ranked nationally. You can find tuition cost, total enrollment and composite MCAT score for each school.
Top Medical Schools in Pennsylvania
| National Ranking | Best Medical Programs |
| 3 | University of Pennsylvania (Perelman) (Philadelphia, PA) Acceptance rate: 5.1% MCAT composite score: 12.3 Tuition: Full-time: $45,498 Average undergraduate GPA: 3.82 Total medical school enrollment: 636 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 3.9:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $533.6
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| 15 | University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA) Acceptance rate: 7.1% MCAT composite score: 11.7 Tuition: Full-time: $43,424 (in-state), Full-time: $44,512 (out-of-state) Average undergraduate GPA: 3.75 Total medical school enrollment: 604 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 3.6:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $368.2
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| 47 | Temple University (Philadelphia, PA) Acceptance rate: 5.3% MCAT composite score: 10.5 Tuition: Full-time: $53,468 Average undergraduate GPA: 3.64 Total medical school enrollment: 778 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 0.6:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $125.7
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| 57 | Jefferson Medical College (Philadelphia, PA) Acceptance rate: 4.7% MCAT composite score: 10.7 Tuition: Full-time: $48,733 Average undergraduate GPA: 3.67 Total medical school enrollment: 1,054 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 2.4:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $73.8
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| 86 | Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA) Acceptance rate: 5.2% MCAT composite score: 10.0 Tuition: Full-time: $46,810 Average undergraduate GPA: 3.55 Total medical school enrollment: 1,080 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 0.6:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $30.4
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| 95 | Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA) Acceptance rate: 7.8% MCAT composite score: 9.1 Tuition: Full-time: $29,673 Average undergraduate GPA: 3.43 Total medical school enrollment: 2,016 Full-time faculty-student ratio: 0.5:1 NIH funds granted to medical school and affiliated hospitals (in millions): $0.0
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All Medical Schools in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to numerous highly respected medical schools, each with a strong reputation for medical education, research, and clinical training. These institutions provide future physicians with the tools they need to succeed in a wide range of medical fields, from primary care to specialty areas.
1. Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
Overview
The Perelman School of Medicine, located in Philadelphia, is one of the oldest and most prestigious medical schools in the United States. Founded in 1765, it is consistently ranked among the top medical schools in the country. Perelman is known for its leadership in biomedical research, innovative curriculum, and world-class clinical training, offering students unparalleled opportunities to engage with cutting-edge medical science.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): The MD program at Perelman provides students with a modern, integrated curriculum that combines basic science with clinical care, research, and healthcare leadership. The curriculum includes early clinical exposure and emphasizes lifelong learning and patient-centered care.
- MD/PhD Program: This dual-degree program is ideal for students interested in careers as physician-scientists, combining rigorous medical training with advanced research in biomedical sciences.
- MD/MPH Program: A combined degree in partnership with the Perelman School’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program, preparing students to address public health challenges in clinical settings.
- MD/MBA Program: In collaboration with the Wharton School of Business, this program trains students for leadership roles in healthcare management.
- Graduate Programs in Biomedical Sciences: Perelman offers multiple master’s and PhD programs in areas such as genetics, immunology, and neuroscience.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 521.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA for admitted students is 3.9.
- Prerequisite Courses:
- Biology (with lab)
- General Chemistry (with lab)
- Organic Chemistry (with lab)
- Physics (with lab)
- Biochemistry (recommended)
- Mathematics (Calculus or Statistics)
- Clinical Experience: Students must demonstrate significant clinical experience, such as shadowing physicians, volunteering in healthcare settings, or working in clinical environments.
- Research Experience: Research experience is highly valued, particularly for those applying to the MD/PhD program.
- Letters of Recommendation: Perelman requires three to five letters of recommendation, including one from a science professor and one from a healthcare professional.
- Interview Process: The admissions process includes both traditional and Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) to assess applicants’ communication skills, ethical decision-making, and leadership potential.
Starting Salaries
Graduates from Perelman School of Medicine have some of the highest starting salaries due to their strong reputation and advanced training:
- Primary Care Physicians: $210,000 to $260,000
- Specialists: $300,000 to $450,000, depending on specialty
- Surgeons: $400,000 to $600,000, depending on specialty
2. University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Overview
The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine (Pitt Med), located in Pittsburgh, is widely recognized for its contributions to medical research and education. Known for its strong research focus and innovative teaching methods, Pitt Med prepares students to become leaders in both clinical care and biomedical research. The school is particularly known for its advancements in transplant medicine, immunology, and neuroscience.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): The MD program at Pitt Med integrates early clinical exposure with a strong foundation in medical sciences. The curriculum is designed to foster inquiry-based learning, clinical skills, and professionalism.
- MD/PhD Program: A combined degree program designed for students pursuing careers in academic medicine and research.
- MD/MPH Program: This dual degree combines medical training with a Master of Public Health, ideal for students interested in population health and preventive medicine.
- Graduate Programs in Biomedical Sciences: Pitt Med offers PhD programs in areas such as molecular pharmacology, cell biology, and structural biology.
- MD/MS in Biomedical Informatics: This program focuses on the use of technology and data in improving healthcare delivery.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 517.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA is 3.85.
- Prerequisite Courses:
- Biology (with lab)
- General Chemistry (with lab)
- Organic Chemistry (with lab)
- Physics (with lab)
- Mathematics (Statistics or Calculus)
- English or Writing-intensive courses
- Clinical Experience: Applicants should have substantial experience in clinical settings, such as shadowing, volunteering, or working in healthcare.
- Research Experience: Research experience is strongly encouraged, especially for those applying to the MD/PhD program.
- Letters of Recommendation: Applicants must submit three to five letters, including one from a professor and one from a healthcare professional.
- Interview Process: The admissions process includes traditional interviews and MMIs to assess applicants’ problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and ethical decision-making.
Starting Salaries
Graduates from Pitt Med typically secure competitive positions in a range of medical fields:
- Primary Care Physicians: $200,000 to $250,000
- Specialists: $270,000 to $380,000, depending on specialty
- Surgeons: $350,000 to $500,000, depending on specialty
3. Drexel University College of Medicine
Overview
Drexel University College of Medicine, located in Philadelphia, is one of the largest private medical schools in the country. Formed through the merger of Hahnemann Medical College and the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania, Drexel has a long history of innovation in medical education and training. The school emphasizes hands-on clinical experience, patient-centered care, and preparing physicians for diverse healthcare environments.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): Drexel’s MD program features a student-centered curriculum with a focus on clinical experience, early patient care, and community service.
- MD/PhD Program: This dual-degree program is designed for students interested in careers in academic medicine and research.
- MD/MPH Program: A combined program for students pursuing public health leadership alongside their medical training.
- Graduate Programs in Biomedical Sciences: Drexel offers master’s and PhD programs in fields such as immunology, microbiology, and pharmacology.
- Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR): A program designed for those interested in clinical research methodologies and improving patient outcomes.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 511.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA is 3.67.
- Prerequisite Courses:
- Biology (with lab)
- General Chemistry (with lab)
- Organic Chemistry (with lab)
- Physics (with lab)
- English or Writing-intensive courses
- Biochemistry (recommended)
- Clinical Experience: Applicants should have relevant clinical experience, such as volunteering, shadowing, or working in healthcare environments.
- Research Experience: While not mandatory, research experience is encouraged, particularly for students interested in pursuing dual degrees.
- Letters of Recommendation: Drexel requires three letters of recommendation, including one from a science professor and one from a healthcare provider.
- Interview Process: Drexel uses traditional interviews to evaluate applicants’ interpersonal skills, clinical readiness, and professional goals.
Starting Salaries
Graduates from Drexel University College of Medicine enjoy competitive starting salaries in various medical fields:
- Primary Care Physicians: $180,000 to $240,000
- Specialists: $250,000 to $330,000, depending on specialty
- Surgeons: $300,000 to $450,000, depending on specialty
4. Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University
Overview
Sidney Kimmel Medical College (SKMC) at Thomas Jefferson University, based in Philadelphia, is one of the largest private medical schools in the United States. SKMC has a strong tradition of clinical excellence and provides students with extensive hands-on experience in patient care. The school is affiliated with Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, offering students access to a wide range of clinical training opportunities in diverse healthcare settings.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): SKMC’s MD program is designed to train students in both the art and science of medicine. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, clinical problem-solving, and early clinical experience.
- MD/PhD Program: A combined degree program for students interested in pursuing careers in biomedical research and clinical practice.
- MD/MPH Program: This dual-degree program prepares students for leadership roles in public health and clinical care.
- Graduate Programs in Biomedical Sciences: SKMC offers several master’s and PhD programs in areas such as molecular biology, pharmacology, and neuroscience.
- Master of Science in Healthcare Quality & Safety: A program that focuses on improving patient care and healthcare delivery through quality improvement and safety initiatives.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 514.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA is 3.75.
- Prerequisite Courses:
- Biology (with lab)
- General Chemistry (with lab)
- Organic Chemistry (with lab)
- Physics (with lab)
- Mathematics (Statistics or Calculus)
- Clinical Experience: SKMC values applicants with significant clinical experience, such as volunteering, shadowing, or working in healthcare settings.
- Research Experience: Research experience is not required but is highly encouraged for students interested in academic medicine or the MD/PhD program.
- Letters of Recommendation: SKMC requires three letters of recommendation, with at least one from a science professor and one from a healthcare provider.
- Interview Process: SKMC uses traditional interviews and MMIs to assess applicants’ clinical skills, communication abilities, and professionalism.
Starting Salaries
Graduates from SKMC at Thomas Jefferson University enjoy strong career prospects and competitive salaries:
- Primary Care Physicians: $200,000 to $250,000
- Specialists: $270,000 to $360,000, depending on specialty
- Surgeons: $320,000 to $500,000, depending on specialty
5. Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine
Overview
The Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, located in Philadelphia, is known for its focus on community-based healthcare, patient-centered education, and research. Temple’s medical school is committed to addressing healthcare disparities, particularly in urban settings, and trains its students to provide compassionate, high-quality care to underserved populations.
Degree Programs
- Doctor of Medicine (MD): The MD program at Temple focuses on early clinical experience, interdisciplinary learning, and hands-on training in a wide variety of healthcare environments.
- MD/PhD Program: A dual-degree program for students interested in careers in research and clinical practice.
- MD/MPH Program: A combined degree that integrates medical training with public health leadership and research.
- Graduate Programs in Biomedical Sciences: Temple offers master’s and PhD programs in biomedical research fields such as molecular medicine, neuroscience, and immunology.
- Master of Science in Urban Bioethics: This program is designed for students interested in addressing ethical issues in healthcare, particularly in urban and underserved settings.
Admission Requirements
- MCAT: The average MCAT score for accepted students is 512.
- GPA: The average undergraduate GPA is 3.72.
- Prerequisite Courses:
- Biology (with lab)
- General Chemistry (with lab)
- Organic Chemistry (with lab)
- Physics (with lab)
- Biochemistry (recommended)
- Clinical Experience: Temple emphasizes the importance of clinical experience in underserved or urban healthcare settings. Applicants should demonstrate significant volunteer or work experience in healthcare environments.
- Letters of Recommendation: Temple requires three letters of recommendation, with one from a healthcare provider or professor who can attest to the applicant’s clinical or academic abilities.
- Interview Process: Temple uses traditional interviews and MMIs to assess applicants’ problem-solving skills, interpersonal abilities, and ethical reasoning.
Starting Salaries
Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine graduates enjoy competitive salaries across various medical specialties:
- Primary Care Physicians: $190,000 to $240,000
- Specialists: $250,000 to $350,000, depending on specialty
- Surgeons: $300,000 to $450,000, depending on specialty