Best Colleges in Delaware 2025
Key Takeaways
- Delaware’s top colleges provide students with access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities in areas like biotechnology, environmental science, and engineering, allowing them to engage in impactful research projects.
- Delaware’s proximity to major metropolitan areas like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C., offers students unique internship and networking opportunities with leading industries, government agencies, and nonprofits, enhancing their career prospects.
- Many of the best colleges in Delaware foster a welcoming and inclusive campus environment, offering a variety of student organizations, cultural activities, and support services that help create a close-knit and diverse community.
Best Colleges in Delaware in 2025
2025 Ranking Update
Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.
There are no changes to our ranking of the best colleges in Delaware for 2025. This was a result of all the schools in the ranking making similar improvements to their curriculum, internship opportunities, and other program features.
Colleges and Universities in Delaware
We’ve identified 4 colleges and universities in Delaware that meet our criteria. This list of the top 30 colleges in Delaware below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Delaware.
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Best Colleges in Delaware
- #1 Best Grad Schools in Delaware 2024 #1 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Delaware 2024 #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
80%
Student body
26K
Median SAT/ACT
1275/28
Career Outlook for degree at University of Delaware
Cost of Degree: $16,080Expenses: $17,638Starting Salary: $64,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Delaware known for?
University of Delaware’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Earth Sciences
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Biology
- Psychology
- Business
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
The University of Delaware is committed to innovation through various initiatives that offer resources, mentorship, and co-working spaces. Here, you’ll get a chance to explore your interests and passions outside the classroom, choosing from over 300 student clubs and organizations.
What we love about the University of Delaware:
The university prioritizes student well-being by providing comprehensive support through 3 dedicated units that offer services such as medical facilities, workshops, and a dedicated counseling hotline.
The University of Delaware is ideal for students who:
Would like to develop their leadership skills through seminars and training.
The University of Delaware might not be the best fit for students who:
Dislike working in teams and collaborating on research projects.
Popular Programs:
- Computer Science
- Mass Communication
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Sports Management
University of Delaware’s Online Degrees
BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #12 Best HBCU Online Master's Programs #1 Best Small Colleges in Delaware 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Delaware 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2025
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
55%
Graduation
45%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
945/22
Career Outlook for degree at Delaware State University
Cost of Degree: $10,314Expenses: $19,922Starting Salary: $38,400Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Delaware State University known for?
Delaware State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
With a diverse student population, Delaware State University maintains an inclusive campus environment that offers numerous opportunities for students to work together and learn new skills. As a research-focused institution, students are empowered to participate in hands-on projects across disciplines, utilizing modern facilities and industry partnerships.
What we love about Delaware State University:
The university’s Optical Sciences program offers specialized coursework and research opportunities in optics and photonics, along with access to cutting-edge laboratories and equipment.
Delaware State University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for unique programs and a diverse set of course offerings like aviation.
Delaware State University might not be the best fit for students who:
Do not want to be involved in service initiatives and outreach programs.
Popular Programs:
- Psychology
- Human Resource Management
- Kinesiology
- Communication
- Computer Science
Delaware State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Accounting
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Human Resource Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Public Health
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #1 Best Private Colleges in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Delaware 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Delaware 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Delaware 2024
Tuition + fees
$12K
Graduation
20%
Student body
19K
Career Outlook for degree at Wilmington University
Cost of Degree: $12,330Starting Salary: $46,600What is Wilmington University known for?
Wilmington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Business
- Computer Science
- Education
- Medical
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- Social Work
Most Influential Alumni
Wilmington University offers a wide range of career-focused programs designed to address the demands of the current job market, with options ranging from business to healthcare and education. With small class sizes, you’ll be able to actively engage in discussions and receive personalized attention from faculty and mentors.
What we love about Wilmington University:
Offering both on-campus and fully online courses, students may freely choose the mode of learning that best fits their schedule and learning preferences.
Wilmington University is ideal for students who:
Prefer joining job fairs and getting mentored by the alumni to become career- ready.
Wilmington University might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for more campus amenities and in-campus dining options.
Popular Programs:
- Business Administration
- Education
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
Wilmington University’s Online Degrees
BS in Animation And 3d
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Digital Filmmaking
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Graphic Design
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Web Design
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Analytics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business Management
Degree Concentrations
- Professional Aeronautics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Finance
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Human Resource Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Organizational Dynamics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Organizational Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Sports Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Accounting
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Accounting And Finance
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Applied Technology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Computer And Network Security
Degree Concentrations
- Digital Forensics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Computer Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Systems Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Law, Policy, And Political Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Education
Degree Concentrations
- Early Childhood Education
- Elementary Education K-6
- Middle Level Education Grades 6-8
- Skilled And Technical Sciences
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Communication
Degree Concentrations
- Digital Journalism
- Public Relations And Strategic Communication
- Visual Communication
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Health Sciences
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Behavioral Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Delaware 2025 #1 Best Christian Colleges in Delaware 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Delaware 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
What is Wesley College known for?
Wesley College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Economics
- Social Work
- Earth Sciences
- Computer Science
- Biology
- Engineering
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
Formerly known as Wesley College, the Wesley College of Health & Behavioral Sciences has joined Delaware State University, with its original campus now serving as the university’s Downtown Campus. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, students benefit from practical experiences through extensive clinical practicum and research projects in various settings.
What we love about Wesley College of Health & Behavioral Sciences:
The college’s Nursing Master’s program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers advanced psychiatric topics and mental health nursing practices, preparing students to pursue the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) national certification.
Wesley College of Health & Behavioral Sciences is ideal for students who:
Prefer joining hands-on internship programs in hospitals, mental health clinics, or social service agencies.
Wesley College of Health & Behavioral Sciences might not be the best fit for students who:
Are looking for programs outside the medical and health field.
Popular Programs:
- Nursing
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Occupational Therapy
- Public Health
Our ranking of the best schools in Delaware contains four higher learning institutions that offer associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees for both traditional and online students. Despite its small size, Delaware has excellent options among the brick-and-mortar and online colleges.
With two public schools and two private schools, Delaware excels in awarding degrees in fields such as mathematics, political science, criminal justice, and publishing. Prospective students can also choose from between affordable traditional courses and online degree programs at either the Delaware State University or the University of Delaware.
In-state students will pay roughly $8,000 for a year at Delaware State University and about $15,000 for tuition at the University of Delaware. Out of state students will pay more.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
The student body size of these schools is, however, vastly different. Just a little over 4,000 students attend Delaware State. By contrast, more than 22,000 on-campus and online students are currently taking courses at the University of Delaware.
Among private colleges in Delaware, Wilmington has the highest student population among private colleges at just under 10,000 students. Wilmington University is also the most affordable private college in Delaware at $12,000.
Residents who earn degrees in the medical or mental health fields have the opportunity to get state-sponsored financial aid through Delaware’s State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP). Applicants must agree to work in underserved areas of Delaware for two or three years and can receive up to $105,000.
Just above the nation’s average annual college tuition cost at $12,274, Delaware provides prospective students with an array of highly respected traditional and online degree programs. Discover more about Delaware’s colleges and universities.
What are Delaware’s Colleges & Universities?
- 3 Research Universities
- 1 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 3 Graduate Schools
- 2 Public Colleges & Universities
- 2 Private Colleges & Universities
- 1 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 2 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 3 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 3 Online Colleges
Delaware’s Best Overall
Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges
Student Submitted Questions about Delaware Colleges
What is the most affordable college in Delaware?
Delaware State is one of the most affordable colleges in the state with a tuition of around $8,000 for in-state Delaware residents. A private school will typically be the most expensive option.
Is accreditation important when choosing a college in Delaware?
Yes! Regional accreditation assures that the education you receive will be top-notch. You can also apply for financial aid when attending accredited colleges. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education is the accrediting body for colleges in Delaware.
