Living in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is the perfect place to go to graduate school. With centuries of history, a diverse population, and a vibrant urban center that's right in the middle of the Boston-Washington D.C. corridor, Philadelphia offers abundant opportunity for students of education. Studying at Penn GSE in Philadelphia means you will have access to one of the largest urban school districts in the country as well as an array of professional contacts and opportunities to study and research across the globe.

Penn students walk along a campus pathway among the autumn colors.

Penn's Campus

Penn’s campus is beautiful all four seasons of the year. Explore our 302-acre Ivy League campus in the heart of West Philadelphia.

Life at Penn

Philly Fast Facts

Philadelphia Skyline

Dynamic City

Philadelphia's metro is 6th largest in the U.S. 

Students in a group hug

Young and Vibrant

Philadelphia has one of the fastest growing populations of millennials in the U.S. 

Penn's Campus LOVE Statue

Affordable Living

The city of Philadelphia is 15% less expensive to live in compared to other major cities such as New York and Boston. Find housing.

Students on Locust Walk

University Network

Philadelphia has the 2nd highest concentration of colleges and universities in the U.S. 

Penn GSE on a map of the USA.

Our City

Often called the "birthplace of America," Philadelphia has a rich history to explore — including Independence Hall, a World Heritage Site, and 67 National Historic Landmarks. Today, it's one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S., with a wealth of opportunities for students of education. Located less than 2 hours away from both New York City and Washington, D.C., Philadelphia is also closely connected to major international airports, public transit, and top tourist attractions throughout the northeast.

biker crushing a trail as the sun goes down in beautiful fairmount park


The Largest Urban Park in the World

Philadelphia's Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world. Stretching from the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in the center of the city along both sides of the Schuylkill River and out to the Wissahickon and Penn's Morris Arboretum, it encompasses more than 2,000 acres of green space. From hiking, cycling, and equestrian trails to nature centers to historic mansions and more, it is replete with opportunities for recreation and respite from the bustle of the city.