2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Maryland

If you are seeking an education from a top institute of higher education, you may wish to explore what Maryland had to offer.

These are the top five 2022 best colleges and universities in Maryland.

Loyola University Maryland – If you’re looking for one of the best schools in the northern United States, this Jesuit school is ranked at #5. Loyola is well-known for its engineering and business programs, and it’s also considered a best-value school. There are three schools within this university: education, arts and sciences, and business and management. More than half the students receive financial aid, with an average award of $21,247. Annual tuition and fees at Loyola cost $49,085.

Johns Hopkins University – This school is a top choice for many students who wish to study bioengineering, neuroscience, or cellular and molecular biology. As the #10 school in the nation, Johns Hopkins focuses on nine areas of study, including public health, education, business, engineering, and medicine. The university offers more than 260 programs, and innovation is at the core of every discipline. The school requires that freshman and sophomore live on campus, but upperclassmen could easily find themselves studying abroad in Italy or China. Annual tuition and fees cost $53,740, and the school accepts only 12% of students who apply for admission.

United States Naval Academy – Ranked as 22nd in the nation (tied) among liberal arts colleges, the United States Naval Academy offers a Bachelor of Science degree. The academy has built a rigorous engineering program. All students enrolled here are considered midshipmen, and they earn a commission in the United States Navy as an ensign upon graduation. The student population is 73% male. Candidates for admission must be recommended to the program, and often this nomination comes from a congressman. Tuition and fees are free.

Mount St. Mary’s University – This is a Catholic school that requires students to learn Catholic theology, liberal arts, and ethics, as well as a few other disciplines. Students are encouraged to become problem-solvers and leaders in their chosen fields. This school is considered a best-value college as well as a best university for veterans. Mount St. Mary’s is ranked #41 among regional universities in the north. Annual tuition costs approximately $41,350.

Hood College – Tied for #43 among regional colleges in the north, Hood offers small class sizes and generous financial aid packages. Four out five students attending Hood report being satisfied with the educational program and quality of teaching, and the school has been recognized as an excellent choice for veterans as well as providing outstanding value. Tuition and fees cost an average of $37,492 annually.

These excellent colleges and universities in Maryland help students prepare for careers that include service and leadership.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Kentucky

Most of the institutions of higher education in Kentucky are private schools, and many of them rank among other prominent liberal arts schools in the United States.

Bluegrass, thoroughbreds and higher education make up the Kentucky landscape. If you’re a college basketball fan, this is the place to be. You can be a part of athletics and academics at one of these 2022 best colleges and universities in Kentucky.

Alice Lloyd College –  This private school teaches its students comprehensive leadership that can be applied in diverse cultures beyond that which is experienced in Kentucky. The school’s goal is to show students the world beyond Appalachia.  Attendance here costs $12,150 annually.

Kentucky Wesleyan College – Ranking in the top ten among regional colleges in the south, Kentucky Wesleyan has a student population that is 52% female. Also, class sizes average 13 students. The education focus is on liberal arts, with preparation to lead a spiritual life. Annual tuition is approximately $26,500.

Bellarmine University – Bellarmine placed at #17 among southern colleges. Known for academics, basketball, and an impressive international study network, this school makes sure students are prepared for future success in a global economy, and student enjoy small class sizes while enrolled here. Annual tuition and fees are $41,800.

Brescia University –  Faculty members teach students to focus on “academic and moral excellence” at this liberal arts school. Expect to pay about $22,100 annually in tuition and fees.

Murray State University –  Considered a high-ranking school in the South, a best higher-ed choice for veterans, and a best-value school, Murray attracts many students interested in health professions, but also offers a diverse number of programs. Most notable is their student-teacher ratio, which is 15:1. In-state tuition runs around $9,084 annually.

Western Kentucky University –  This public school ranks high among similar schools in the South, and it is also considered a best-value institute of higher learning. Tuition for in-state students is approximately $10,602 annually.

Kentucky State University – A top-rated school among public universities (#4 Top Public Schools), a best-value school, and well-respected among southern colleges and historically black colleges and universities, KSU provides a liberal arts education and offers a variety of programs for study. In-state tuition runs around $7,796 per year.

Kentucky offers plenty of higher education choices for residents, and out-of-state students may also find attending school in this highly attractive. If you live in one of the states that make up the Academic Common Market, you can pay in-state tuition in Kentucky.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Arizona

The Arizona climate is one of the best in the United States, especially if you like warmer weather, less rain or suffer from allergies. The state also offers an excellent climate for education.

Here are the top-ranked colleges and universities in Arizona.

Arizona Christian University – Ranked as one of the top regional west colleges, this accredited school integrates faith, fellowship and Christian service in a liberal arts program of study. Annual tuition is approximately $22,796 /year.

Prescott College – If you prefer tiny classes in a small, liberal arts environment, look to Prescott College, where you’ll learn how to create life balance while learning and serving others. The student-faculty ratio is 9:1. Female students make up 60% of the student population, Expect to pay approximately $31,485/year in tuition and fees.

Arizona State University, Phoenix – Ranked #1 in the United States for innovation three years in a row, this school offers more than 100 degrees and professional certification programs of study. You’ll find students from all 50 states and 100 countries around the world, and the student population has a 1:1 female-male ratio. It’s also a great school for veterans. Annual tuition is under $11,000.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Located in Prescott, AZ, this college focuses exclusively on aeronautical and aviation studies and the business related to these pursuits. Embry-Riddle is ranked #1 in aeronautics among universities without a doctorate program, and it has a top-notch engineering program. Seventy-five percent of the student population is male. Tuition is approximately $35,714/year.

Northern Arizona UniversityWith its main campus located in Flagstaff, this school challenges students to be creative and innovative in their studies, community service and approach to problem-solving. The school ranks among the top of Tier 2 colleges.  In-state tuition is less than $12,000 annually.

Grand Canyon University – Located in Phoenix, this university is a private, non-denominational Christian School that offers degrees in broadly diverse areas of academics, including business, biology, and fine arts. Tuition and fees run $17,000/year.

Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture – Located at Wright’s Taliesin West, this school is included because of its uniqueness. The School of Architecture offers daily inspiration, project-based learning, and unique apprenticeship opportunities for graduate students seeking a master’s degree in architecture. Degree candidates immerse themselves in the physical and social requirements for designing and building homes. Tuition is approximately $40,000/year.

These universities are not only the best in Arizona; they also offer some of the most unique learning experiences in higher education in the United States.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in New Mexico

Although there aren’t many four-year colleges and universities in New Mexico, this state has a reputation for quality scientific research, thanks to schools like the University of New Mexico and New Mexico State University.

These two institutions of higher education are among the 2022 best colleges and universities in New Mexico, and several others have earned that distinction, too.

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology – Ranked at #35 among regional universities in the West, the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology was originally known as the New Mexico School of Mines. This school is a top public school, and it has an outstanding engineering program. With an enrollment of 2,009 students, the faculty provides one-on-one mentoring and design hands-on learning experiences for students in several disciplines of geology and earth sciences. This school turns away 78% of applicants. Tuition and fees are $7,570 annually.

St. John’s College – This school is #72 among liberal arts schools in the nation, and the curriculum focuses on the great literature of the past. Almost 100% of the classes here have fewer than 20 students. This college has graduated some remarkable alumni such as Francis Scott Key and is considered a best-value school. Annual tuition and fees cost $53,218.

New Mexico State UniversityThis is a top-tier school known for business, education, and engineering, but one of the most popular majors here is criminal justice. New Mexico State is in the top 200 of national universities and is also a top public school. Tuition and fees run $7,368 per year.

Some of the colleges and universities in New Mexico are not ranked, but they merit looking at. One of these is below.

Institute of American Indian ArtsThis tribal college focuses on native cultural creativity and fine arts. Both native and non-native students are welcome to apply to the institute. The school is not ranked, and it has an enrollment of under 700 students who enjoy class sizes of 7:1. Tuition and fees run just under $5,000 annually.

If what you’re looking for cannot be found in this state, New Mexico has a reciprocal tuition agreement with some colleges in Colorado.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Pennsylvania

A trip to Pennsylvania will reveal 100-plus colleges and universities scattered throughout the state, and many of these institutions of higher education are well known and their degrees highly sought-after.

The 2022 best colleges and universities in Pennsylvania have earned national distinction, especially among liberal arts schools.

Liberal arts schools of distinction

Swarthmore College – This private school tied for third place among national liberal arts colleges, and the college also offers an engineering program. Highly selective, Swarthmore has a fall acceptance rate of 11%. Less than 10% of the students on campus have cars. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $52,588.

Haverford College – Liberal arts college Haverford ranks 11th, and this school houses the most extensive collection of Quaker history although the school is no longer affiliated with the religious group. Haverford is recognized for its undergraduate teaching and is considered a best-value choice school. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $54,592.

Bryn Mawr College – This all-female school ranks #27 among similar liberal arts schools in the nation. The college offers unique opportunities for co-ed activities. This school promotes intellectual inquiry and has a high number of students who pursue their doctorates. Bryn Mawr is known for its innovation, best-value, and best undergraduate teaching. Only 38% of applicants are admitted to the school. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $52,360.

Bucknell University – Coming in at #36, Bucknell consists of three Colleges: arts and sciences, engineering, and management. The school encourages students to participate in an array of study-abroad options designed to broaden their horizons. This best-value school accepts 31% of applicants. Expect to pay approximately $56,092 per year in tuition and fees.

National university recognition

Robert Morris University – A private school, this university ranks #183 in the nation. The university has a recognized engineering program and business program. Other popular courses of study include nursing and accounting. The freshman retention rate is 82%, which is slightly above the national average. Robert Morris accepts four out of five applicants. Annual tuition and fees are $30,300.

Widener University – This school, which was once known as Pennsylvania Military College, now offers almost four dozen undergraduate programs, including a recognized engineering program and business program. The school values community service and challenging academics. Widener has a 65% acceptance rate. Annual tuition and fees cost $45,948.

With nationally recognized colleges and universities like these within your reach, attending college in the Keystone State could very well be your key to a big future.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Missouri

Forty-seven colleges and universities make up the higher education landscape in Missouri, and several of these schools have earned regional and national respect for their programs of study and value to students.

Many of the 2022 best colleges and universities can be found in St. Louis.

Washington University in St. Louis – Coming in at #19 in the United States, Washington is comprised of four undergraduate schools and four graduate schools. They offer programs in social work, business, law, medicine, arts, engineering, applied science, and education. Annual tuition and fees are $53,399.

Webster University – Webster represents the best of the Midwest, but it also maintains an international presence with campuses in Europe and Asia. Students are encouraged to study abroad, especially if studying global journalism or international business. This school is ranked #23 in the Midwest, and it is a best-value school. Expect to pay $27,900 for tuition and fees.

Fontbonne University – With less 1,375 students, Fontbonne provides an individualized higher education experience for students seeking a liberal arts degree or professional program in a Christian environment. The school ranks 72nd among Midwestern colleges, and it is also a best-value college opportunity.

St. Louis University – Although the school was founded on Jesuit principles, it welcomes students of any faith. The college is ranked #106 of universities in the United States, and it is also a best-value school. This school also has the distinction of being the first public institution of higher education west of the Mississippi. The university has a 64% acceptance rate. Annual tuition and fees average $43,996.

Maryville University of St. Louis – Currently ranked #177 in national universities, U.S. World News & Report has also identified Maryville as an over-performing university. This private school offers 90-plus degrees, and the annual tuition and fees are $28,470.

Of course, not all colleges and universities in Missouri are located in St. Louis. One of the most unique schools can be found in Point Lookout.

College of the Ozarks – College of the Ozarks makes higher education accessible to those least able to afford it. This small, private, Christian school is ranked #5 in the Midwest. It is #1 in affordability, largely due to the work program on campus, and it is also #1 in innovation. In addition, the undergraduate teaching program is the fourth best in the nation. There is no charge for tuition; students must demonstrate an educational need to attend this school.

These colleges and universities make Missouri an optimal place for exploring higher education.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Mississippi

If you’re considering attending college in Mississippi, you’ll have plenty of schools from which to choose. Many of the smaller private institutions of higher learning are faith-based, and most of the public colleges boast small undergraduate populations.

Most of the 2022 best colleges and universities in Mississippi offer small class sizes that allow students to get the most from their undergrad experiences.

Blue Mountain College – One of the tiniest private liberal arts schools, Blue Mountain has a total enrollment of 601 students. Academic studies include a Christian-centered focus. The college is ranked #8 in the South and is considered a best-value. Tuition and fees cost $12,584 annually.

Mississippi College – This school offers liberal arts and science programs in a Christian environment. Students who are admitted to the private college have demonstrated excellence in academics and seek to integrate their faith into their studies. The college is ranked #32 in the South and is a best-value school. Expect to pay approximately $18,026 annually in tuition and fees.

William Carey University – This private school with a Baptist affiliation teaches leadership and service in addition to academics. Students accepted into a program here will find themselves in small class sizes averaging thirteen students. William Carey accepts 38% of its applicants and is ranked #39 in the South. Tuition and fees here cost $12,600 annually.

Mississippi University for Women – MUW was the first public college for women in the United States, and the student population is 80% female. Nursing, business administration, and liberal arts make up the top three programs. It has earned the distinction of being #58 among regional schools in the South, and it is a best-value. The university is tied for nineteenth place as a top public school. Students at this college can expect to pay $6,940 annually in tuition and fees.

Belhaven University – This private college ranks #65 among southern institutions of higher learning. Belhaven offers a Christian liberal arts education that will buoy graduates throughout their lives. Tuition and fees cost approximately $25,300 a year.

University of Mississippi – With an undergraduate enrollment of almost 23,136 students, Ole Miss offers a big college experience in a small university town. The school is ranked #152 nationwide, and it is considered a best-value university, as well as a best-value for veterans. The acceptance rate is 84%, and the annual tuition is $8,290.

Mississippi is one of fifteen states participating in the Academic Common Market.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Indiana

The “Hoosier” state is noted for high-quality academics. Accessible cost and a vibrant social and athletic scene make this state even more appealing for students.

Here are the top 10 colleges and universities in Indiana in 2022.

  1. Butler University. Caring professors and a close-knit community of students are among the many things that make the “Butler Way” a top choice. For plenty of personal attention and a small student-teacher ratio, Butler is an excellent option.
  2. Taylor University is a conservative Christian school that prides itself on preparing students for ministry. There are a multitude of athletic and social events, including a popular film festival. With a supportive, home-like atmosphere, college dorms here rank #25 in the nation.
  3. The University of Evansville. Academics at this private college rank near the top not only in Indiana but in the nation. It is renowned for engineering, poetry, and many other disciplines. The academic atmosphere is challenging but supportive.
  4. Saint Mary’s College. This private, Catholic women’s college is known for a strong sense of community and a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. The supportive environment is ideal for helping young women find their unique voice in the world.
  5. The University of Notre Dame is a private Catholic school just 100 miles away from Chicago. A strong athletic program (especially football!) are among the many things that make students’ experience here exceptional.
  6. Purdue University is a large flagship university whose focus is agriculture and STEM. It offers at least 275 degree programs, most notably in Pharmacy and Veterinary Medicine. Freshman retention rate averages 92%.
  7. Indiana University at Bloomington prides itself on a diverse student population and a vast choice of undergraduate degrees. 94% of students are employed within two years of graduation. As the largest college in the university system, it comprises 17 colleges and about 650 degree programs.
  8. Depauw University offers a close-knit community within the small, rural town of Greencastle. Although best known for its communication and social sciences programs, Depauw also has many offerings for technology-minded students.
  9. Wabash College. One of only three men’s colleges in the entire nation, Wabash is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts schools in the US. A requirement of comprehensive exams for earning a degree ensures that students have learned all course materials.
  10. Hanover College emphasizes rigor, diversity, and service as part of its mission. A collaborative spirit between students and faculty make it stand out. Popular majors include Psychology and Communications.

No matter what your dreams and goals may be, you can find the perfect college or university for you in the Hoosier State.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Nebraska

There’s a lot to like about higher education in Nebraska, especially when comparing the 2022 best colleges and universities in Nebraska. Nebraska has some of the lowest tuitions in the United States.

Creighton University –   This Jesuit-affiliated private school offers nine programs for undergraduates and graduate students, as well as for students seeking professional certification. Students can take advantage of international opportunities for study, during the regular semester or exclusively in the summertime. This university has an impressive 91% freshman rate, and Creighton ranks #1 in regional schools in the Midwest. Tuition and fees are $39,916 annually.

Nebraska Wesleyan University – Ranked at #17 in Midwestern universities, more than two-thirds of the classes at Nebraska Wesleyan have fewer than twenty students. Nebraska Wesleyan is affiliated with the Methodist church. This liberal arts school is also considered a best-value among similar schools, and many graduates continue their studies and pursue masters and doctoral degrees. The tuition and fees run approximately $33,000 annually.

Hastings College – Another private school in Nebraska, Hastings is ranked at #23 among Midwestern colleges, and it’s a best-value school as well. Almost one-third of the students participate in Greek life. Hastings offers an Irish Fellows program, in which students study abroad for one month. This college is affiliated with the Presbyterian church, and tuition is $30,050 per year.

Union College – Another private institution of higher education, this liberal arts college ranks #39 among Midwestern Colleges and is considered a best-value school. Union encourages students to participate in relevant hands-on experiences, including internships, volunteering, and opportunities for studying abroad. Expect to pay approximately $55,290 annually in tuition and fees.

Not all universities in Nebraska are small Christian colleges. There are large public schools, too.

University of Nebraska- Kearney  – Ranking at #53 among Midwestern universities, this school offers an excellent business program, and it is considered veteran-friendly, a top public school, and a best value college. Kearney has the added distinction of being the center of the United States, exactly 1,733 miles from San Francisco and Boston. In-state tuition and fees are $7,513 annually.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln – The undergrad enrollment at this public university is 20,954 and the school is part of the Big Ten Conference. Students can choose from 150 majors, and the 400 students organizations on campus enrich the college experience. Warren Buffet and Johnny Carson earned degrees from this school, and it’s considered #129 in the nation as well as a best-value school. Tuition and fees run $9,242 annually.

Nebraska participates in the Midwest Student Exchange Program (MSEP), and Nebraskans can take advantage of in-state tuition in participating states.

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2023 Best Colleges and Universities in Minnesota

Minnesota offers college candidates diverse opportunities to study at small, mid-sized and large campuses across the state. There are plenty of public and private schools from which to choose, and many of the private schools are faith-based.

We’ll explore some of the top 2022 best colleges and universities in Minnesota. 

Carleton College – Carlton has achieved the distinction of being ranked 5th among liberal arts universities nationwide. Students benefit from small classes, and 96% of freshmen report being satisfied with their educational experience here. This private school ranks first in undergraduate teaching, is a best-value school, and in the top dozen innovative schools in the nation. Annual tuition and fees are approximately $54,759.

Bethel University – The focus at Bethel is on Christian principles in every one of the programs of study offered at the college. Business, nursing, and education are popular majors, and students learn how to become servant leaders. Annual tuition is $37,300. Bethel is tied for 17th in the Midwest.

St. Catherine University – St. Kate’s ranks thirteenth in the Midwest region, and it’s also considered a best-value school. This school is known for its programs in nursing public health, and social work. Women make up 96% of the student body. The acceptance rate here is 70%, and tuition and fees are $39,669 annually.

Hamline University – This college is the oldest institute of higher learning in Minnesota. This small school has big ideas about college studies, and it encourages students to study abroad, participate in co-curricular activities, and make the most of their time spent in small class sizes. If bachelor’s degree candidates do not graduate in four years, Hamline pays for the additional semesters until graduation. Annual tuition is $41,473.

Macalester College –Macalester focuses on creating a personalized experience for its students. The school mascot is the Scots, and bagpipe lessons are free.  This small college has earned distinction as a top liberal arts school, a best-value, and it offers an excellent undergraduate program. Tuition and fees are $54,348.

Bigger universities in Minnesota have also achieved recognition for their academic programs.

University of Minnesota – Duluth – This institute of higher education ranks 45th in the Midwest region of the United States and students can choose from 93 programs of study. Tuition and fees run $13,367 annually.

Winona State University – Winona State is recognized among colleges in the Midwest as a respected Midwest school and a best-value college. The school offers more than 80 programs. In-state tuition and fees are $9,379 a year.

Minnesota also participates in the Midwest Student Exchange Program, which allows students in nearby states to access higher education through in-state tuition costs.

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