Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2024

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Interested in attending a STEM school in Massachusetts? Our ranking of top research universities for bachelor’s degrees displays schools that will best prepare you for STEM careers.

10 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts

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  1. Harvard University
  2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  3. Boston University
  4. Tufts University
  5. Brandeis University
  6. University of Massachusetts Amherst
  7. Boston College
  8. Northeastern University
  9. Clark University
  10. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
  1. Harvard University
  2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  3. Boston University
  4. Brandeis University
  5. Tufts University
  6. University of Massachusetts Amherst
  7. Boston College
  8. Clark University
  9. Northeastern University
  10. University of Massachusetts Boston
  1. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 92%
  2. Western New England University 90%
  3. Lesley University 87%
  4. University of Massachusetts Lowell 85%
  5. Simmons University 84%
  6. University of Massachusetts Boston 79%
  7. University of Massachusetts Amherst 66%
  8. Worcester Polytechnic Institute 60%
  9. Clark University 48%
  10. Brandeis University 39%
  1. University of Massachusetts Lowell 19 to 1
  2. University of Massachusetts Boston 17 to 1
  3. University of Massachusetts Amherst 17 to 1
  4. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth 15 to 1
  5. Boston College 14 to 1
  6. Northeastern University 14 to 1
  7. Worcester Polytechnic Institute 13 to 1
  8. Western New England University 12 to 1
  9. Boston University 10 to 1
  10. Brandeis University 10 to 1
  1. Tufts University $63,000
  2. Boston College $61,706
  3. Brandeis University $60,006
  4. Boston University $59,816
  5. Northeastern University $57,592
  6. Massachusetts Institute of Technology $55,878
  7. Worcester Polytechnic Institute $55,731
  8. Harvard University $55,587
  9. Clark University $50,302
  10. Simmons University $43,062
  1. Boston University $58,560
  2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology $55,510
  3. Tufts University $54,196
  4. Brandeis University $53,498
  5. Harvard University $50,928
  6. Clark University $47,650
  7. Boston College $32,616
  8. Worcester Polytechnic Institute $28,980
  9. Western New England University $26,640
  10. Northeastern University $25,801
  1. Simmons University
  2. Lesley University
  3. Western New England University
  4. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
  5. University of Massachusetts Lowell
  6. University of Massachusetts Boston
  7. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
  8. Clark University
  9. Northeastern University
  10. Boston College
  1. Western New England University
  2. Lesley University
  3. Simmons University
  4. University of Massachusetts Lowell
  5. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
  6. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
  7. University of Massachusetts Boston
  8. Northeastern University
  9. Clark University
  10. Boston College
  1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology 4%
  2. Harvard University 4%
  3. Tufts University 11%
  4. Northeastern University 18%
  5. Boston College 19%
  6. Boston University 19%
  7. Brandeis University 39%
  8. Clark University 48%
  9. Worcester Polytechnic Institute 60%
  10. University of Massachusetts Amherst 66%
  1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology 3 to 1
  2. Harvard University 5 to 1
  3. Simmons University 9 to 1
  4. Lesley University 9 to 1
  5. Clark University 9 to 1
  6. Boston University 10 to 1
  7. Brandeis University 10 to 1
  8. Tufts University 10 to 1
  9. Western New England University 12 to 1
  10. Worcester Polytechnic Institute 13 to 1
  1. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth $13,833
  2. University of Massachusetts Boston $14,187
  3. University of Massachusetts Lowell $15,078
  4. University of Massachusetts Amherst $15,791
  5. Lesley University $29,550
  6. Western New England University $40,380
  7. Simmons University $43,062
  8. Clark University $50,302
  9. Harvard University $55,587
  10. Worcester Polytechnic Institute $55,731
  1. University of Massachusetts Amherst $14,014
  2. University of Massachusetts Lowell $14,590
  3. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth $16,390
  4. University of Massachusetts Boston $18,433
  5. Lesley University $18,900
  6. Simmons University $21,384
  7. Northeastern University $25,801
  8. Western New England University $26,640
  9. Worcester Polytechnic Institute $28,980
  10. Boston College $32,616

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?

Massachusetts’ Best Overall

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

A research university is a great option for students interested in obtaining STEM degrees. Research universities invest heavily in research, which consequently provides meaningful and extensive opportunities for its students and faculty to participate in research. We’ve identified 16 research universities in Massachusetts. To be included in our ranking, schools must be a fully accredited universities and must must offer doctoral degrees across the range of STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math).

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Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2023

  1. #1

    Harvard University

    Cambridge , MA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    97%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1520/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Harvard University

    Cost of Degree: $57,261
    Expenses: $26,277
    Starting Salary: $139,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  2. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    4%

    Graduation

    96%

    Student body

    12K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1545/35

    Career Outlook for degree at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $57,986
    Expenses: $21,864
    Starting Salary: $153,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  3. #3

    Boston University

    Boston , MA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    19%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1405/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Boston University

    Cost of Degree: $62,360
    Expenses: $20,400
    Starting Salary: $75,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Boston University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Undergrad Completion Program
    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  4. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1295/29

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Amherst

    Cost of Degree: $16,952
    Expenses: $16,523
    Starting Salary: $57,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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. #7

    Boston College

    Chestnut Hill , MA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    19%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    16K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1415/32

    Career Outlook for degree at Boston College

    Cost of Degree: $64,176
    Expenses: $19,570
    Starting Salary: $92,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  6. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    18%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    31K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1475/34

    Career Outlook for degree at Northeastern University

    Cost of Degree: $60,192
    Expenses: $21,230
    Starting Salary: $74,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  7. #9

    Clark University

    Worcester , MA

    Tuition + fees

    $50K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    79%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1250/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Clark University

    Cost of Degree: $52,352
    Expenses: $12,914
    Starting Salary: $54,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  8. Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    19K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Boston

    Cost of Degree: $15,132
    Expenses: $19,618
    Starting Salary: $53,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
  9. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $16K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    23K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Lowell

    Cost of Degree: $16,182
    Expenses: $16,550
    Starting Salary: $57,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    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
  10. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1090/23

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth

    Cost of Degree: $14,854
    Expenses: $19,665
    Starting Salary: $51,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What 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
  11. Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Western New England University

    Cost of Degree: $44,500
    Expenses: $17,730
    Starting Salary: $61,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Western New England University known for?

    Western New England University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

  12. #15

    Lesley University

    Cambridge , MA

    Tuition + fees

    $30K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Lesley University

    Cost of Degree: $31,364
    Expenses: $21,988
    Starting Salary: $40,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Lesley University known for?

    Lesley University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
  13. #16

    Simmons University

    Boston , MA
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $43K

    Acceptance

    84%

    Graduation

    71%

    Student body

    7K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Simmons University

    Cost of Degree: $44,350
    Expenses: $20,198
    Starting Salary: $58,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Simmons University’s Online Degrees

    BSBA in Business And Management
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communications
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSW in Social Work
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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Find the Best Research Universities in Massachusetts for Your Area of Interest

2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 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.

  1. Harvard University
  2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  3. Brandeis University
  4. Tufts University
  5. Boston University
  6. Clark University
  7. Boston College
  8. University of Massachusetts Amherst
  9. Northeastern University
  10. Simmons University
  11. Worcester Polytechnic Institute
  12. Lesley University
  13. University of Massachusetts Lowell
  14. Western New England University

Check out our directory of research universities throughout the U.S. for a look at the top research institutions in every state.

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