Best HBCUs in Philadelphia, PA

Updated September 2026 · 10 businesses · Philadelphia guide

Looking for HBCUs in Philadelphia? Below you'll find 10 local options with their address, phone number, website and opening hours, plus practical advice on choosing the right one.

What they do: Historically Black colleges and universities. Pennsylvania is home to Cheyney University and Lincoln University, two of the oldest HBCUs in the country.

This guide lists 10 HBCUs in and around Philadelphia, spread across 6 ZIP codes. 10 have a phone number you can call directly from this page, 10 link to their own website, 1 is open on weekends. Listings are organized so you can compare them at a glance and contact them directly.

Top 10 HBCUs in Philadelphia

Listings are shown in no paid order: no business can pay to appear or to rank higher on this page.

1 Peirce College

Open weekendsZIP 19103
Opening hours
Mon7 AM-6:05 PM
Tue7 AM-6:05 PM
Wed7 AM-6:05 PM
Thu7 AM-6:05 PM
Fri7 AM-6:05 PM
Sat7 AM-6:05 PM
Sun7 AM-6:05 PM

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2 Moore College of Art & Design

ZIP 19103
Opening hours
Mon9 AM-5 PM
Tue9 AM-5 PM
Wed9 AM-5 PM
Thu9 AM-5 PM
Fri9 AM-5 PM
SatClosed
SunClosed

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7 La Salle University

ZIP 19141
Opening hours
Mon8 AM-5 PM
Tue8 AM-5 PM
Wed8 AM-5 PM
Thu8 AM-5 PM
Fri8 AM-5 PM
SatClosed
SunClosed

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9 Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

ZIP 19319
Opening hours
Mon8 AM-5 PM
Tue8 AM-5 PM
Wed8 AM-5 PM
Thu8 AM-5 PM
Fri8 AM-5 PM
SatClosed
SunClosed

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How to choose HBCUs in Philadelphia

  • Check accreditation or state approval. Career schools in Pennsylvania are licensed by the State Board of Private Licensed Schools.
  • Ask about class sizes, schedules and whether evening or weekend options exist.
  • Get the total cost in writing, including fees, books and supplies.
  • Ask about completion and job-placement rates for career programs.
  • Visit or sit in on a class before you enroll.

Local tips for Philadelphia

Philadelphia has its own licensing rules that go beyond state law: the city's Department of Licenses and Inspections (L+I) issues contractor licenses, permits and trade licenses, so plumbers, electricians and contractors working in the city need an L+I license on top of any state registration.

SEPTA's subway, trolley and bus network covers most of the city, so check whether a business is near a Market-Frankford or Broad Street Line station if you don't drive. Street parking in Center City is limited and enforced by the Philadelphia Parking Authority.

Philadelphia is in Philadelphia County, and local phone numbers use the 215, 267 and 445 area codes. Popular areas include Center City, Old City, Fishtown, Northern Liberties, South Philly, University City, Manayunk, Chestnut Hill.

Frequently asked questions

Which HBCUs in Philadelphia are open on weekends?

According to their listed hours, these are open on Saturday or Sunday: Peirce College. Hours can change on holidays, so call before you go.

Which areas of Philadelphia do these HBCUs cover?

The HBCUs on this list are located in ZIP codes 19102, 19103, 19104, 19121, 19141, 19319. Many businesses also serve nearby neighborhoods and suburbs, so ask when you call.

How much do classes cost in Philadelphia?

It depends on the program: community classes may cost a few hundred dollars, while certificate and career programs can cost several thousand. Ask about financial aid, payment plans and PA grants.

Is financial aid available?

Many accredited programs qualify for federal aid (FAFSA) and Pennsylvania's PHEAA state grants. Adult education and GED classes are often free.

How do I check that a school is legitimate?

Look it up with the Pennsylvania Department of Education or the State Board of Private Licensed Schools, and check its accreditor on the US Department of Education's database.

Information is collected from public sources and may change. Please confirm hours, prices and availability directly with each business. Business owner? Ask us to update your listing.