Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology has earned the top spot as the #1 community college in Pennsylvania, according to SmartAsset’s 2025 Best Community Colleges report. The annual ranking evaluates two-year colleges across the United States based on key success indicators, and Thaddeus Stevens College stood out among its peers for excellence in affordability, student support, and retention.
The College was recognized for offering affordable tuition and fees, lowering financial barriers for students; low student-to-faculty ratios, ensuring personal attention and academic support; and strong retention rates, demonstrating student satisfaction and institutional strength.
You can read the full U.S. rankings here: https://smartasset.com/data-studies/best-community-colleges-2025
Delivering Real-World Outcomes
At Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, students receive more than just an education. They gain a direct pathway to family-thriving wages and in-demand careers. With 98% of graduates employed or pursuing further education, a $52,500 median first-year salary, and average student debt of just $12,000, the College continues to set the standard for workforce-focused higher education.
Students benefit from:
- 22+ hours/week of hands-on lab instruction
- Faculty with real-world industry experience
- Paid in-field work experiences for 60–70% of students
- Employer-informed curriculum tailored to today’s workforce needs
Academic offerings span high-demand fields including manufacturing, construction, automotive, design, IT, and business.
Transforming Lives and Communities
As Pennsylvania’s only state-owned two-year technical college, Thaddeus Stevens College remains mission-driven and committed to creating access for students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue higher education. The College integrates technical training with robust wraparound services such as academic advising, childcare support, financial counseling, and emergency aid.
Beyond academics, students participate in athletic programs, student organizations, and leadership development initiatives. On-campus housing is available for about half of all students across seven residential facilities, contributing to a complete and supportive college experience.
Thaddeus Stevens College also offers nine-month certificates, short-term training through its Workforce and Economic Development Center, and early enrollment options for high school students, all designed to expand access to education and economic mobility.
This statewide recognition underscores the College’s continued impact across Pennsylvania and its role in preparing students for lasting success in both career and life.