Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
Private colleges, unlike large public institutions, can be a great option for students wanting a more intimate campus experience, more personal attention from excellent professors, and more immediate access to support services. Here is our list of the best private colleges in Massachusetts.
10 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Boston University
- Tufts University
- Brandeis University
- Boston College
- Northeastern University
- Amherst College
- Williams College
- Wellesley College
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Boston University
- Brandeis University
- Tufts University
- Amherst College
- Williams College
- Smith College
- Wellesley College
- Boston College
- Bard College at Simon's Rock 95%
- Wentworth Institute of Technology 92%
- Western New England University 88%
- Suffolk University 87%
- Lesley University 86%
- Stonehill College 73%
- Hampshire College 69%
- Bentley University 58%
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute 57%
- Clark University 50%
- Wentworth Institute of Technology 17 to 1
- Northeastern University 16 to 1
- Emerson College 15 to 1
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute 13 to 1
- Suffolk University 13 to 1
- Boston College 12 to 1
- Bentley University 12 to 1
- Stonehill College 12 to 1
- Boston University 11 to 1
- Hampshire College 11 to 1
- Tufts University $65,222
- Bard College at Simon's Rock $64,951
- Boston College $64,176
- Amherst College $64,100
- Boston University $62,360
- Brandeis University $62,322
- Wellesley College $61,920
- Williams College $61,770
- Northeastern University $60,192
- Smith College $58,768
- Williams College $61,775
- Boston University $61,050
- Smith College $58,480
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology $57,590
- Brandeis University $55,104
- Tufts University $54,196
- Harvard University $52,456
- Clark University $47,650
- Bentley University $43,440
- Wentworth Institute of Technology $40,285
- Lesley University
- Cambridge College
- Western New England University
- Bard College at Simon's Rock
- Wentworth Institute of Technology
- Stonehill College
- Bentley University
- Emerson College
- Hampshire College
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Cambridge College
- Bard College at Simon's Rock
- Wentworth Institute of Technology
- Stonehill College
- Western New England University
- Lesley University
- Bentley University
- Emerson College
- Suffolk University
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Harvard University 3%
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology 4%
- Amherst College 7%
- Northeastern University 7%
- Williams College 8%
- Tufts University 10%
- Wellesley College 14%
- Boston University 14%
- Boston College 17%
- Smith College 23%
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology 3 to 1
- Bard College at Simon's Rock 6 to 1
- Williams College 6 to 1
- Wellesley College 7 to 1
- Amherst College 7 to 1
- Harvard University 7 to 1
- Smith College 8 to 1
- Cambridge College 8 to 1
- Clark University 9 to 1
- Mount Holyoke College 9 to 1
- Cambridge College $17,190
- Lesley University $31,364
- Wentworth Institute of Technology $38,760
- Suffolk University $43,332
- Western New England University $44,500
- Stonehill College $52,000
- Clark University $52,352
- Emerson College $53,232
- Hampshire College $54,452
- Bentley University $56,500
- Cambridge College $16,923
- Western New England University $17,550
- Lesley University $18,900
- Northeastern University $26,715
- Mount Holyoke College $27,268
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute $28,980
- Stonehill College $31,867
- Emerson College $32,376
- Boston College $33,912
- Suffolk University $39,622
Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts
Some of the most talked about universities in Massachusetts are its private schools, including Boston University, Harvard University, Northeastern University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which also happen to be the largest. Tuition for these prestigious schools runs between $50,000 and $54,000. Students here have access to some of the top programs in the country in fields such as biology, literature, law, education, engineering, and religious studies. The alumni from New England schools are equally as impressive, including Martin Luther King Jr., Bill Gates, and Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Find college admissions consultants in your state.
The public higher education institutes also boast top-notch programs, allowing students to pursue associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in fields like mathematics, social work, medicine, and economics. The University of Massachusetts Amherst, the state’s largest public university, offers tuition around $16,000 and serves over 28,000 students. Additionally, students who are interested in attending a religiously affiliated school have 17 options to choose from, most of which feature high graduation rates for their students. For future dental, medical, or mental health professionals, Massachusetts also offers loan forgiveness programs for those working in underserved communities.
As the port of destination for the Mayflower, home to the Plymouth colony, and site of the Salem Witch Trials, Massachusetts looms large in United States history, but this most populous New England state isn’t just for history buffs. The Bay State is also known for its delicious cuisine, beautiful coastlines, and devout sports fans. Not to mention, it has over 100 colleges for students to choose from.
Find a program that’s right for you and explore the best schools Massachusetts has to offer.
What are Massachusetts’ Colleges & Universities?
- 16 Research Universities
- 41 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 23 Graduate Schools
- 12 Public Colleges & Universities
- 45 Private Colleges & Universities
- 10 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 35 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 13 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 16 Community Colleges
- 23 Online Colleges
Massachusetts’ Best Overall
What is the difference between public and private colleges?
Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.
Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.
This list is composed entirely of private colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 45 private universities in Massachusetts. To be included in the list below of the 25 best private universities in Massachusetts, schools must be fully accredited, private, non-profit institution, and must offer a broad range of bachelor’s degrees.
Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2023
- #1 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #1 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025 #1 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #1 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025
Other Rankings
- #1 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
- #1 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
- #1 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
- #1 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
- #1 Best Universities in the World 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 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Colleges and Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #1 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #2 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #1 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #1 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #7 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
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: $57,261Expenses: $26,277Starting 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 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
Other Rankings
- #8 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads 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 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #1 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #9 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #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
- #6 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #9 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #11 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
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: $57,986Expenses: $21,864Starting 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 Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #25 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #1 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2025
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Counseling PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #1 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
- #1 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
- #1 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #1 Best Online Degree Completion Programs for Returning Students
- #2 Best Online Master's in Project Management 2025
- #2 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice 2025
- #2 10 Best Online Master's of Music Education Degree Programs
- #2 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #3 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
- #3 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs 2025
- #3 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #3 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #3 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #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
- #22 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
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: $62,360Expenses: $20,400Starting 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
- #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 #4 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
Other Rankings
- #5 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025
- #12 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #24 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees 2025
- #25 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees 2025
- #25 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #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: $65,222Expenses: $19,378Starting Salary: $103,300Cost Recoup Time: 14 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
- #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
- #5 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024
- #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: $62,322Expenses: $19,592Starting 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
- #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
- #7 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #8 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025
- #5 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #23 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Education
- #3 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
- #3 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024
- #5 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #9 Best Online MBA Degree Programs No GRE Required Ranked for 2024
- #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: $64,176Expenses: $19,570Starting Salary: $92,500Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- #8 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #8 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #9 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Massachusetts
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
- #3 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
- #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Nursing Programs (PhDs)
- #4 Best Online Master's in Economics 2025
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 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: $60,192Expenses: $21,230Starting 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
- #3 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #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
- #9 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science 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 Philosophy 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
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #6 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #8 Best Colleges and Universities for Psychology 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: $64,100Expenses: $19,550Starting Salary: $83,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 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
- #5 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #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
- #10 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2024
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degrees 2025
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science 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 Philosophy Degrees 2025
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #8 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #15 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
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: $61,770Expenses: $19,230Starting Salary: $89,800Cost Recoup Time: 15 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
- #8 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #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
- #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 Anthropology Degrees
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #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 Religious Studies Degrees
- #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 Economics Degree
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees 2025
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #9 Best Colleges and Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #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: $61,920Expenses: $21,130Starting 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
- #7 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #7 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #3 Best Small Colleges in Massachusetts 2025
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Grad Schools 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 Economics Degree
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees 2025
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees 2025
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English 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: $58,768Expenses: $23,366Starting Salary: $51,100Cost Recoup Time: 21 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
- #13 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #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: $52,352Expenses: $12,914Starting 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
- #1 50 Best Christian Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities 2025 #19 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #22 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #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: $58,360Expenses: $18,520Starting 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
- #18 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #22 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #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: $58,498Expenses: $19,180Starting Salary: $53,900Cost Recoup Time: 20 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
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Massachusetts 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #22 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: $43,332Expenses: $22,132Starting 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
- #4 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #6 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024 #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: $56,896Expenses: $18,944Starting 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
- #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: $54,452Expenses: $16,922Starting Salary: $39,900Cost Recoup Time: 22 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
- #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: $52,496Expenses: $24,138Starting Salary: $51,200Cost Recoup Time: 20 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
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025 #9 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024 #9 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
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: $56,500Expenses: $21,270Starting 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: $50,762Expenses: $17,600Starting Salary: $66,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 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: $38,760Expenses: $18,620Starting 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
Tuition + fees
$65K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
65%
Student body
<1K
Career Outlook for degree at Bard College at Simon's Rock
Cost of Degree: $64,951Expenses: $19,200Starting Salary: $45,300Cost Recoup Time: 23 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Bard College at Simon's Rock known for?
Bard College at Simon's Rock’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
- Literature
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$45K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
67%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1185/26
Career Outlook for degree at Western New England University
Cost of Degree: $44,500Expenses: $17,730Starting Salary: $61,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Western New England University known for?
Western New England University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Law
- Business
- Education
- Political Science
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts Ranked for Students in 2024 #14 Most Affordable Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhD Programs #18 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts #8 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs 2025
Tuition + fees
$17K
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Cambridge College
Cost of Degree: $17,190Starting Salary: $40,000What is Cambridge College known for?
Cambridge College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #11 Best Online Master's Programs in Massachusetts 2024 #13 Best Online Colleges in Massachusetts 2024 #20 Best Online Bachelor's in Psychology Degree Programs for Students 2025
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
61%
Student body
5K
Career Outlook for degree at Lesley University
Cost of Degree: $31,364Expenses: $21,988Starting Salary: $40,500Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Lesley University known for?
Lesley University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Psychology
- Literature
- Communications
- Education
- Political Science
- Medical
- History
- Biology
- Sociology
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
Lesley University’s Online Degrees
BA in Liberal Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Business Management
- Marketing Or Nonprofit Management
- Human Services
- Marketing Or Nonprofit Management
- Human Services
- Development Psychology
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in User Experience
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Human Services
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Interdisciplinary Humanities
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Find Massachusetts’ Best Private School in Your Area 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
- Tufts University
- Wellesley College
- Williams College
- Smith College
- Mount Holyoke College
- Boston University
- Clark University
- Emerson College
- Boston College
- College of the Holy Cross
- Northeastern University
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Stonehill College
- Wheaton College
- Bentley University
- Endicott College
- Bay Path University
Check out our directory of private colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top private schools in every state.