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Harcum College

Bryn Mawr, PA

private nonprofitassociates

Quick Facts

904
Total Students
$30K
Tuition (In-State)
$30K
Tuition (Out-State)
$25K
Avg Net Price
Associate's Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Harcum College

Harcum College: Nurturing individual talent since 1915 with career-focused associate degrees.

Harcum College stands as a distinctive institution dedicated to practical, career-focused education. Today, it proudly serves a diverse student body, offering robust programs in Allied Health Science, Business, and Human Services. Whether seeking a traditional campus experience with residential living or a flexible commuter option, Harcum provides an environment tailored to the aspirations of both traditional and non-traditional learners.

The college's rich history began on October 1, 1915, with the opening of the Harcum Post Graduate School by the visionary couple, Edith and Octavius Harcum. Edith, a concert pianist, founded the school with a groundbreaking mission: to foster the individual talent of each girl as an integral part of her education. Initially an all-women's university preparatory school, Harcum evolved significantly, fully transitioning into a junior college by the late 1920s, continuously adapting to meet educational demands.

A pivotal moment arrived in 1956 when Harcum College made history as the first junior college in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania granted permission to confer the Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees. The institution further expanded its reach by admitting male students in the 1970s, officially becoming co-educational in 2003. This journey underscores Harcum's enduring commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education, empowering students with the skills and knowledge for successful careers.

Key Highlights

  • Founded in 1915 by Edith and Octavius Harcum with a unique focus on individual talent.
  • First junior college in Pennsylvania authorized to confer Associate of Arts and Science degrees (1956).
  • Specializes in career-focused programs in Allied Health Science, Business, and Human Services.
  • Transitioned from an all-women's institution to fully co-educational in 2003.
  • Edith Harcum led the college as President for over 30 years after her husband's passing.
  • Offers both commuter and residential experiences for diverse student populations.

Timeline

1915
The Harcum Post Graduate School was opened by Edith and Octavius Harcum.
1920
Octavius Harcum passed away, and Edith Harcum assumed the Presidency.
Late 1920s
Harcum transitioned fully into a junior college, eliminating the preparatory school model.
1952
Edith Harcum declared bankruptcy and sold the school's assets to Philip Klein.
1956
Harcum became the first junior college in Pennsylvania to confer Associate of Arts and Science degrees.
1970s
Began admitting male students.
2003
Officially became a co-educational institution.

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