Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Here are the best colleges and universities in Massachusetts based on the academic achievements of faculty and alumni associated with the schools. The best colleges in Massachusetts have rich histories of hiring stellar faculty and producing influential alumni.
Key Takeaways
- Massachusetts is home to world-renowned institutions like Harvard University, MIT, and Amherst College, offering cutting-edge research opportunities, interdisciplinary programs, and access to leading faculty across diverse fields. These schools emphasize both academic rigor and hands-on learning experiences.
- Colleges in Massachusetts are part of a vibrant academic ecosystem, with strong alumni networks and connections to industries like technology, healthcare, and finance. The proximity to Boston—a hub for innovation—provides students with numerous internship and career opportunities.
- With a strong emphasis on student life, Massachusetts colleges offer a rich blend of extracurricular activities, from student-run clubs to athletics and cultural organizations. These opportunities allow students to engage with peers, develop leadership skills, and explore their interests outside the classroom.
10 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 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.
In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the best colleges in Massachusetts saw a considerable amount of movement. Amherst College rose three ranking positions due to the college’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, with a major initiative to decarbonize the campus by transitioning to a low-temperature hot water geothermal system. This project will reduce the college’s reliance on fossil fuels by using renewable energy to heat and cool campus buildings, significantly enhancing energy efficiency.
Additionally, Amherst is expanding its inclusive academic support with the Amherst College Textbooks (ACTS) program, which provides all students with free access to required course materials, aiming to reduce financial barriers and improve educational equity.
Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges
We’ve identified a total of 57 colleges and universities in Massachusetts that meet our criteria. This list of the top 25 colleges in Massachusetts below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in Massachusetts. For those who are interested in an associate’s degree, check out our ranking of top online associate’s in Massachusetts.
Best Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts
- #1 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #1 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #1 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #1 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
Other Rankings
- #1 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
- #1 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
- #1 Best Universities in the World 2025
- #1 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #1 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #1 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #1 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
- #1 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #2 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #1 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #1 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2025
- #1 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
3%
Graduation
98%
Student body
39K
Median SAT/ACT
1535/35
Career Outlook for degree at Harvard University
Cost of Degree: $59,076Expenses: $27,629Starting Salary: $139,100Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Harvard University known for?
Harvard University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #7 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #7 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #8 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Other Rankings
- #8 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #8 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #8 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #10 Best Universities in the World 2025
- #2 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
- #2 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
- #2 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Colleges and Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Colleges and Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Colleges and Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #7 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #13 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #3 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students 2025
- #6 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #8 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2025
- #8 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
95%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1555/35
Career Outlook for degree at Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $60,156Expenses: $22,574Starting Salary: $153,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Massachusetts Institute of Technology known for?
Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Economics
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Earth Sciences
- Business
- Biology
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #19 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Colleges and Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #12 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees 2025
- #15 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees 2025
- #18 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #1 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students 2025
- #1 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #1 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #2 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice 2025
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Communications 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
- #3 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #3 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #3 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Finance 2025
- #3 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #5 Best Online PhD of Computer Science Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
- #6 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
- #7 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #8 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #1 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
- #15 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students 2025
- #22 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
14%
Graduation
89%
Student body
44K
Median SAT/ACT
1425/32
Career Outlook for degree at Boston University
Cost of Degree: $65,168Expenses: $21,195Starting Salary: $75,900Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Boston University known for?
Boston University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Social Work
- Communications
- Religious Studies
- Education
- Political Science
- Business
- History
- Philosophy
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
Boston University’s Online Degrees
BS in Undergrad Completion Program
- Required Credits: 64
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #21 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #23 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #25 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #4 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #4 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
- #4 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics 2025
- #5 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #7 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #10 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2025
- #12 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #2 How to Earn Your Master's Degree Without Your Bachelor's Degree
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
39%
Graduation
87%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1450/32
Career Outlook for degree at Brandeis University
Cost of Degree: $64,946Expenses: $21,296Starting Salary: $69,000Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Brandeis University known for?
Brandeis University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
- Psychology
- Economics
- Political Science
- Physics
- History
- Literature
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #24 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #24 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #5 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
- #5 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #17 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees 2025
- #24 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #25 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
- #4 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #5 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2025
Tuition + fees
$65K
Acceptance
10%
Graduation
94%
Student body
16K
Median SAT/ACT
1500/34
Career Outlook for degree at Tufts University
Cost of Degree: $67,844Expenses: $20,456Starting Salary: $103,300Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Tufts University known for?
Tufts University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #5 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #6 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #6 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #7 Best Colleges and Universities for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Colleges and Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Colleges and Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Colleges and Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$64K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
92%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1485/33
Career Outlook for degree at Amherst College
Cost of Degree: $67,280Expenses: $20,360Starting Salary: $83,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Amherst College known for?
Amherst College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Literature
- Law
- Political Science
- Education
- Sociology
- Chemistry
- History
- Religious Studies
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Massachusetts 2025
- #1 Best Online Certificate in Liberal Arts and Humanities Ranked for Students 2025
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #2 Best RN to BSN Online Programs
- #2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs 2025
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
- #2 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #3 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2025
- #3 The Best Online Colleges Ranked for Students in 2025
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025
- #4 Fastest Online Associate Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #5 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
- #5 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering 2025
- #6 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management 2025
- #7 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #8 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #9 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2025 Ranked for Students
- #10 Top 20 Best Online MBA Programs that Can Be Completed in One Year 2025
- #14 Best Online Master's in Management 2025
- #17 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #17 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2025
Tuition + fees
$17K
Acceptance
64%
Graduation
83%
Student body
37K
Median SAT/ACT
1370/31
Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Amherst
Cost of Degree: $17,357Expenses: $17,309Starting Salary: $57,700Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Massachusetts Amherst known for?
University of Massachusetts Amherst’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Literature
- Computer Science
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Education
- Communications
- Business
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Online Degrees
BA in Film And Media Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Bachelor Of Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Hospitality And Tourism Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Arts Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA/BS in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BSN in Nursing: RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing: RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Bachelor Of Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #5 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #6 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #8 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #10 Best Colleges and Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Colleges and Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
8%
Graduation
95%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1525/34
Career Outlook for degree at Williams College
Cost of Degree: $64,860Expenses: $20,000Starting Salary: $89,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Williams College known for?
Williams College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Economics
- Political Science
- History
- Physics
- Religious Studies
- Chemistry
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #7 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
- #8 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
Tuition + fees
$59K
Acceptance
23%
Graduation
89%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1445/32
Career Outlook for degree at Smith College
Cost of Degree: $61,568Expenses: $24,462Starting Salary: $51,100Cost Recoup Time: 22 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Smith College known for?
Smith College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Literature
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Education
- Political Science
- History
- Physics
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #5 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #9 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Christian Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
- #8 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
- #9 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #5 Best Colleges and Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #12 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees 2025
- #23 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #3 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025
- #5 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #10 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2025
- #10 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$64K
Acceptance
17%
Graduation
91%
Student body
17K
Median SAT/ACT
1487/34
Career Outlook for degree at Boston College
Cost of Degree: $67,680Expenses: $21,925Starting Salary: $92,500Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Boston College known for?
Boston College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #4 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees 2025
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2025
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #9 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #10 Best Colleges and Universities for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #11 Best Colleges and Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
14%
Graduation
90%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1490/34
Career Outlook for degree at Wellesley College
Cost of Degree: $64,320Expenses: $21,970Starting Salary: $71,800Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wellesley College known for?
Wellesley College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Political Science
- Physics
- Education
- Economics
- History
- Psychology
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #9 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Massachusetts #3 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Nursing Programs (PhDs)
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2025
- #4 Best Online Master's in Economics 2025
- #5 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #7 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies 2025
- #9 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #18 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #4 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
91%
Student body
38K
Median SAT/ACT
1495/34
Career Outlook for degree at Northeastern University
Cost of Degree: $63,141Expenses: $21,590Starting Salary: $74,200Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Northeastern University known for?
Northeastern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Business
- Law
- Engineering
- Education
- Biology
- Political Science
- Nursing
- Physics
Most Influential Alumni
- #16 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #5 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
Tuition + fees
$52K
Acceptance
50%
Graduation
76%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1340/30
Career Outlook for degree at Clark University
Cost of Degree: $55,160Expenses: $13,540Starting Salary: $54,700Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Clark University known for?
Clark University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #18 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #18 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #6 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
40%
Graduation
83%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1445/32
Career Outlook for degree at Mount Holyoke College
Cost of Degree: $64,142Expenses: $20,838Starting Salary: $53,900Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Mount Holyoke College known for?
Mount Holyoke College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Education
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Political Science
- History
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Anthropology
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #22 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #23 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #25 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
36%
Graduation
91%
Student body
3K
Median SAT/ACT
1345/30
Career Outlook for degree at College of the Holy Cross
Cost of Degree: $60,850Expenses: $19,650Starting Salary: $88,600Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is College of the Holy Cross known for?
College of the Holy Cross’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
- Literature
- History
- Psychology
- Communications
- Education
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #8 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
60%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Hampshire College
Cost of Degree: $56,630Expenses: $17,644Starting Salary: $39,900Cost Recoup Time: 23 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Hampshire College known for?
Hampshire College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Communications
- History
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #7 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Nursing Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
51%
Student body
19K
Median SAT/ACT
1190/26
Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Boston
Cost of Degree: $15,495Expenses: $21,578Starting Salary: $53,700Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Massachusetts Boston known for?
University of Massachusetts Boston’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Economics
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Social Work
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Chemistry
- Medical
- History
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #5 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025 #9 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025 #13 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
57%
Graduation
89%
Student body
8K
Career Outlook for degree at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Cost of Degree: $58,870Expenses: $20,472Starting Salary: $84,600Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Worcester Polytechnic Institute known for?
Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #5 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
Tuition + fees
$43K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
60%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1190/27
Career Outlook for degree at Suffolk University
Cost of Degree: $45,380Expenses: $22,860Starting Salary: $59,900Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Suffolk University known for?
Suffolk University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #9 11 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Speech Pathology #12 20 Best Online Master's of Speech Pathology Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$53K
Acceptance
43%
Graduation
77%
Student body
6K
Median SAT/ACT
1340/31
Career Outlook for degree at Emerson College
Cost of Degree: $54,816Expenses: $25,220Starting Salary: $51,200Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Emerson College known for?
Emerson College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Gender Studies Degree Programs for 2025 #4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Anthropology 2025
- #7 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #10 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #10 Best Online MBA in Accounting Degree Programs
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's of Economics Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of History Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2025
- #14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2025
- #15 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting 2025
- #19 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #19 Best Online MBAs in Finance 2025
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
55%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1140/26
Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Cost of Degree: $15,208Expenses: $21,112Starting Salary: $51,500Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Massachusetts Dartmouth known for?
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth’s Online Degrees
BS in Accounting
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Economics
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Finance
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in General Business Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Management-Leadership
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Marketing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Operations Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Management Information Systems
Degree Concentrations
- E-Commerce/Digital Business
- Technology & Management
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in English Literature And Criticism
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in History
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Liberal Arts
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Political Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Sociology And Anthropology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Women'S And Gender Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Healthcare Services Administration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Medical Laboratory Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Nursing
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #3 Best Public Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Massachusetts 2025 #2 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Online Associate in Information Technology
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Psychology Programs
- #3 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #4 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of English
- #5 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #7 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024
- #8 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
- #8 Best Online Master's in Economics 2025
- #8 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025
- #11 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2025
- #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
- #15 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity 2025
- #15 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
- #16 Best Online Master’s in Finance 2025
- #20 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2025
- #20 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice 2025
- #20 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2025
- #21 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025
- #21 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics 2025
- #22 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management 2025
- #23 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #23 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #1 Fastest Online Associate's of Business Degree Programs Ranked 2025
- #4 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Finance Degree Programs 2024
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
71%
Student body
22K
Median SAT/ACT
1259/28
Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Lowell
Cost of Degree: $16,570Expenses: $17,994Starting Salary: $57,200Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Massachusetts Lowell known for?
University of Massachusetts Lowell’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Social Work
- Engineering
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Literature
- Sociology
- Computer Science
- History
Most Influential Alumni
University of Massachusetts Lowell’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 122
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Technology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Technology Second Degree
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Technology: Business Minor
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in English Literature And Criticism
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BLA in Liberal Arts
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025 #23 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2025
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
58%
Graduation
88%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1339/30
Career Outlook for degree at Bentley University
Cost of Degree: $58,150Expenses: $21,810Starting Salary: $95,400Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bentley University known for?
Bentley University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Business
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Medical
- History
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$52K
Acceptance
73%
Graduation
79%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Stonehill College
Cost of Degree: $53,400Expenses: $19,505Starting Salary: $66,800Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Stonehill College known for?
Stonehill College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Business
- Religious Studies
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Literature
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$39K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
69%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1230/28
Career Outlook for degree at Wentworth Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $41,010Expenses: $22,170Starting Salary: $67,300Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Wentworth Institute of Technology known for?
Wentworth Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
Find the Best Schools in Massachusetts for Area of Interest
2021 Ranking Archive
Many of our 2024 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2023. That’s because we took a fundamentally different approach. For 2024 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Amherst College
- Brandeis University
- Hampshire College
- Tufts University
- Wellesley College
- Williams College
- Smith College
- Mount Holyoke College
- Boston University
- Clark University
- Emerson College
- Boston College
- College of the Holy Cross
- University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Northeastern University
- Simmons University
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Stonehill College
- Wheaton College
- Bentley University
- Gordon College
- Springfield College
- Western New England University