Is a research university right for me?–

Research universities are colleges and universities whose faculty are active in research and publishing. Research universities offer a wide array of doctoral programs, especially in the sciences. They tend to be big, with tens of thousands of students. Do you prefer a larger university setting, such as largest public university in your state? Research universities are typically big, offering degrees in many different disciplines. Is a big high-powered research environment the thing for you? If not, you should think about a liberal arts college. In deciding on an undergraduate institution, ask yourself what sort of environment will best help you to be happy and excel. Consider whether you are self motivated enough to be a face in the crowd for some classes and largely unknown on campus at a large university. Of course you can find clubs and friends at a large university, but often liberal arts colleges have a more personal quality to them. If you want the community feel, a research university may not fit you well. Are you interested in STEM fields? Research universities have that name for a reason – real research is happening there. This can create an exciting atmosphere for students interested in STEM. Attending a research university can give you a better chance of getting into better programs for graduate degrees, although a lot of that depends on your performance.

Is an online college right for me?–

Online colleges are typically the same colleges and universities you could attend in-person, but for certain degree programs the college or unviersity has made the degree programs available to be completed online. For over 5 million students, online degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in the most flexible format available. Online degrees are as respected as the on-campus degrees you could earn from the same schools. There’s usually no distinction between the two degrees, and your degree and transcript will not say that the degree was earned online. Online degree programs are offered by a vast majority of colleges and universities, and the number of offering continues to grow. Whether you are searching for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate, there’s a good chance you can earn your degree online from a respectable online college. Are you a self-driven student? Perhaps the hardest aspect of obtaining an online degree is whether you will be disciplined enough to manage your time and course demands. Many online students report that online college made them more disciplined in all areas of their lives, but the flexible, self-paced learning that makes online colleges attractive can often be the same qualities that make it difficult. If you tend to be a procrastinator, you need to be honest with yourself. You can change your habits and propensities, or you can throw money down the drain. Do you need the flexibility of an online degree program? Most online students study online because of time demands of balancing work and life, or because the online college affords them the chance to attend a better school without moving. If you are serious about earning your degree for career advancement, online colleges make it possible. The most flexible options among online degrees are those that are asynchronous, meaning you don’t have scheduled times to meet with your class online. However, many students seek synchronous online degree programs so that they have some structure – set meeting times, scheduled exams, etc. The good news is that attending an online college doesn’t mean you will miss out on getting to know your professors and classmates. In fact, many online students who have experienced both online and on-campus courses report having easier access to their professors. Since most communication with your professor is expected to be in text – via email or your class learning management system – it makes asking your questions easier. The same students also report that they got to better know the thoughts of their classmates. While in-person course conversations can be dominated by a few extroverts, online courses that require online discussions make it so that you see all of your classmates’ thoughts and questions. If you’re interested in an online bachelor’s degree, check out what the best online colleges offer, or search our online degrees for the exact program that interests you. In either case, you will find well respected colleges and universities that offer online degrees.

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Mexico 2025

Q: Is a liberal arts college right for me?–

Often referred to as “teaching colleges” liberal arts colleges put a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. Do you want your professors to know you? Liberal arts colleges strive to cultivate campus cultures that encourage tight bonds between professors and students. Professors at these schools will typically conduct original research. Yet the best of these schools offer their faculty reduced teaching loads so that they can both be productive researchers and still have plenty of time for students (both in and outside the classroom). Do you want to feel like you know everybody? One of the most enticing features of a liberal arts college is that in very little time, you can feel like you know who’s who, which can create strong friendships and make walks across campus more fun. While your sports teams may never be on ESPN, it’s more likely that you’ll know the athletes as your peers. Beyond student and faculty relationships, it’s not unusual for the school president and other administrators to learn who you are. When faced with problems with your student account or the need to switch classes, this can be comforting during a stressful moment.

Badge for BEST IN NEW MEXICO LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGES

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Chloe Dembski

Updated: Oct 22, 2024

Liberal arts colleges are a great option for students seeking a well-rounded education in an intimate campus setting. The best liberal arts colleges in New Mexico offer a diverse selection of degree programs with opportunities for a highly individualized educational experience.

Key Takeaways

Liberal arts colleges in New Mexico emphasize a broad-based education that encourages critical thinking and interdisciplinary exploration, allowing students to engage deeply with subjects like philosophy, literature, science, and the arts.
Located in a region rich with cultural history and natural beauty, liberal arts colleges in New Mexico offer students unique opportunities for experiential learning through the arts, outdoor activities, and engagement with Native American and Hispanic cultures, which enhance both academic and personal growth.
These colleges typically offer small class sizes, fostering close relationships between students and professors. This personalized approach ensures that students receive individualized support and mentorship, creating a collaborative learning environment.

Table of Contents

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Mexico in 2025

Eastern New Mexico University
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
+1
New Mexico Highlands University
–1
Western New Mexico University
University of the Southwest
Northern New Mexico College

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 schools in our ranking of the best liberal arts colleges in New Mexico remained fairly stable. The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology gained a ranking position as the university expanded its research opportunities, particularly in cutting-edge fields like astrophysics, geophysics, and materials science, where the institute continues to excel on both national and global levels.

Additionally, upgrades to their research centers, such as the Energetic Materials Research and Testing Center (EMRTC) and the Petroleum Recovery Research Center, provide students with hands-on experience in real-world scientific and engineering challenges.

A liberal arts college is a school that puts a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. We’ve identified 6 liberal arts colleges in New Mexico. To be ranked among the best liberal arts colleges in New Mexico, schools must fully accredited institutions.

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Mexico

Last Year’s Ranking:
1. Eastern New Mexico University
2. New Mexico Highlands University
3. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
4. Western New Mexico University
5. University of the Southwest
6. Northern New Mexico College
#1
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales , NM
#1 Best Small Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #4 Best Colleges in New Mexico 2024 #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
28%
Graduation
41%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
970/19
Career Outlook for degree at Eastern New Mexico University
Cost of Degree: $6,738
Expenses: $14,178
Starting Salary: $34,800
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Eastern New Mexico University is dedicated to preparing students for advanced study and careers. Its mission is to provide an engaging learning environment combined with the latest technology to ensure an outstanding educational experience for all.
What we love about Eastern New Mexico University:
This school offers more than 90 programs and 1,200 courses to choose from.
Eastern New Mexico University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for a safe school with low tuition rates.
Eastern New Mexico University might not be the best fit for students who:
Want to go to a college with more opportunities to interact with professors.
Compare school
#2
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
Socorro , NM
#16 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #2 Best Small Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in New Mexico 2025 #3 Best Colleges in New Mexico 2024
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
74%
Graduation
55%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
Cost of Degree: $9,058
Expenses: $16,142
Starting Salary: $58,500
Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology was founded in 1889 and is committed to leading education and research in engineering, mathematics, science, and technology. It also pioneers innovation through cutting-edge research and entrepreneurship.
What we love about the New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology:
It provides unique curricula written and published by the professors themselves.
New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology is ideal for students who:
Are passionate about engineering and mathematics since this school requires all students to take basic courses in math, physics, and chemistry.
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology might not be the best fit for students who:
Would rather choose a bigger school with lots of social interactions and diverse experiences.
Compare school
#3
New Mexico Highlands University
Las Vegas , NM
#3 Best Small Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #6 Best Colleges in New Mexico 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in New Mexico 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Graduation
25%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at New Mexico Highlands University
Cost of Degree: $7,260
Expenses: $14,786
Starting Salary: $37,800
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
New Mexico Highlands University is a public comprehensive academic institution that provides students with exceptional education through research, critical thinking, and creativity in the liberal arts and sciences. It is also committed to offering educational experiences that promote interdisciplinary learning.
What we love about New Mexico Highlands University:
It engages and serves surrounding communities to foster mutually beneficial exchanges of knowledge, resources, and services.
New Mexico Highlands University is ideal for students who:
Prefer a school that embraces the diversity of its students, faculty, staff, and administrators.
New Mexico Highlands University might not be the best fit for students who:
Don’t like this school’s relative remoteness, as it can have limited access to transportation hubs.
Compare school
#4
Western New Mexico University
Silver City , NM
#4 Best Small Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #5 Best Colleges in New Mexico 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in New Mexico 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in New Mexico 2025
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
31%
Student body
4K
Career Outlook for degree at Western New Mexico University
Cost of Degree: $7,868
Expenses: $16,828
Starting Salary: $35,800
Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Western New Mexico University was established in 1893 and now offers degrees in over 70 fields of study in general science, kinesiology, and zoology, to name a few.
What we love about Western New Mexico University:
This school offers fully online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs for adult students.
Western New Mexico University is ideal for students who:
Are searching for an excellent school with a great location since WNMU is close to metropolitan hubs.
Western New Mexico University might not be the best fit for students who:
Think that this school’s career and networking opportunities are limited compared to more prestigious universities.
Compare school
#5
University of the Southwest
Hobbs , NM
#2 Best Private Colleges in New Mexico 2024 #4 Best Grad Schools in New Mexico 2025 #5 Best Small Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
Tuition + fees
$17K
Graduation
27%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at University of the Southwest
Cost of Degree: $16,670
Starting Salary: $41,000
The University of the Southwest is a four-year Christian university founded in 1962. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees founded on Christian values. Its mission is to develop all students to help them achieve their full potential in the classroom and beyond.
What we love about the University of the Southwest:
It is committed to experiential learning and developing students’ leadership skills.
The University of the Southwest is ideal for students who:
Seek a Christian school that embraces diversity and inclusion.
The University of the Southwest might not be the best fit for students who:
Might find the climate in Hobbs, New Mexico to be harsh and uncomfortable.
Compare school
#6
Northern New Mexico College
Espanola , NM
#6 Best Small Colleges in New Mexico 2025 #7 Best Colleges in New Mexico 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges in New Mexico 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in New Mexico 2025
Tuition + fees
$5K
Graduation
40%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Northern New Mexico College
Cost of Degree: $5,064
Starting Salary: $30,000
Northern New Mexico College is known for being one of the state’s most affordable four-year colleges. It offers a wide range of associate’s, bachelor’s, and certificate programs in the arts and human sciences, nursing and health sciences, and career and technical fields.
What we love about Northern New Mexico College:
This school offers undergraduate students research and field opportunities.
Northern New Mexico College is ideal for students who:
May be looking for a school that offers fully online teacher education programs.
Northern New Mexico College might not be the best fit for students who:
Want to go to a college with more student life opportunities.
Compare school

Build your own college rankings

New Mexico’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Your Area of Interest

Frequently Asked Questions About Research Universities, Liberal Arts Colleges, Online Colleges

In pursuing a bachelor’s degree, you will need to choose between three kinds of schools: research universities, liberal arts colleges, and online colleges.

Research universities are colleges and universities whose faculty are active in research and publishing. Research universities offer a wide array of doctoral programs, especially in the sciences. They tend to be big, with tens of thousands of students.

Do you prefer a larger university setting, such as largest public university in your state? Research universities are typically big, offering degrees in many different disciplines.

Is a big high-powered research environment the thing for you? If not, you should think about a liberal arts college. In deciding on an undergraduate institution, ask yourself what sort of environment will best help you to be happy and excel.

Consider whether you are self motivated enough to be a face in the crowd for some classes and largely unknown on campus at a large university. Of course you can find clubs and friends at a large university, but often liberal arts colleges have a more personal quality to them. If you want the community feel, a research university may not fit you well.
Are you interested in STEM fields? Research universities have that name for a reason – real research is happening there. This can create an exciting atmosphere for students interested in STEM. Attending a research university can give you a better chance of getting into better programs for graduate degrees, although a lot of that depends on your performance.

Learn more about research universities by reading about the best research universities in the US.

Often referred to as “teaching colleges” liberal arts colleges put a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree.

Do you want your professors to know you? Liberal arts colleges strive to cultivate campus cultures that encourage tight bonds between professors and students.

Professors at these schools will typically conduct original research. Yet the best of these schools offer their faculty reduced teaching loads so that they can both be productive researchers and still have plenty of time for students (both in and outside the classroom).

Do you want to feel like you know everybody? One of the most enticing features of a liberal arts college is that in very little time, you can feel like you know who’s who, which can create strong friendships and make walks across campus more fun. While your sports teams may never be on ESPN, it’s more likely that you’ll know the athletes as your peers.

Beyond student and faculty relationships, it’s not unusual for the school president and other administrators to learn who you are. When faced with problems with your student account or the need to switch classes, this can be comforting during a stressful moment.

Learn more about liberal arts colleges by reading about the best liberal arts colleges in the US.

Online colleges are typically the same colleges and universities you could attend in-person, but for certain degree programs the college or unviersity has made the degree programs available to be completed online. For over 5 million students, online degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in the most flexible format available.

Online degrees are as respected as the on-campus degrees you could earn from the same schools. There’s usually no distinction between the two degrees, and your degree and transcript will not say that the degree was earned online.

Online degree programs are offered by a vast majority of colleges and universities, and the number of offering continues to grow. Whether you are searching for an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate, there’s a good chance you can earn your degree online from a respectable online college.

Are you a self-driven student? Perhaps the hardest aspect of obtaining an online degree is whether you will be disciplined enough to manage your time and course demands.

Many online students report that online college made them more disciplined in all areas of their lives, but the flexible, self-paced learning that makes online colleges attractive can often be the same qualities that make it difficult. If you tend to be a procrastinator, you need to be honest with yourself. You can change your habits and propensities, or you can throw money down the drain.

Do you need the flexibility of an online degree program? Most online students study online because of time demands of balancing work and life, or because the online college affords them the chance to attend a better school without moving.

If you are serious about earning your degree for career advancement, online colleges make it possible. The most flexible options among online degrees are those that are asynchronous, meaning you don’t have scheduled times to meet with your class online. However, many students seek synchronous online degree programs so that they have some structure – set meeting times, scheduled exams, etc.

The good news is that attending an online college doesn’t mean you will miss out on getting to know your professors and classmates. In fact, many online students who have experienced both online and on-campus courses report having easier access to their professors.

Since most communication with your professor is expected to be in text – via email or your class learning management system – it makes asking your questions easier. The same students also report that they got to better know the thoughts of their classmates. While in-person course conversations can be dominated by a few extroverts, online courses that require online discussions make it so that you see all of your classmates’ thoughts and questions.

If you’re interested in an online bachelor’s degree, check out what the best online colleges offer, or search our online degrees for the exact program that interests you. In either case, you will find well respected colleges and universities that offer online degrees.

Check out our directory of liberal arts colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top liberal arts schools in every state.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Mexico 2025

Key Takeaways

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Mexico in 2025

2025 Ranking Update

Best Liberal Arts Colleges in New Mexico

Last Year’s Ranking:

Eastern New Mexico University

Career Outlook for degree at Eastern New Mexico University

What we love about Eastern New Mexico University:

Eastern New Mexico University is ideal for students who:

Eastern New Mexico University might not be the best fit for students who:

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Career Outlook for degree at New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

What we love about the New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology:

New Mexico Institute of Mining & Technology is ideal for students who:

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology might not be the best fit for students who:

New Mexico Highlands University

Career Outlook for degree at New Mexico Highlands University

What we love about New Mexico Highlands University:

New Mexico Highlands University is ideal for students who:

New Mexico Highlands University might not be the best fit for students who:

Western New Mexico University

Career Outlook for degree at Western New Mexico University

What we love about Western New Mexico University:

Western New Mexico University is ideal for students who:

Western New Mexico University might not be the best fit for students who:

University of the Southwest

Career Outlook for degree at University of the Southwest

What we love about the University of the Southwest:

The University of the Southwest is ideal for students who:

The University of the Southwest might not be the best fit for students who:

Northern New Mexico College

Career Outlook for degree at Northern New Mexico College

What we love about Northern New Mexico College:

Northern New Mexico College is ideal for students who:

Northern New Mexico College might not be the best fit for students who:

New Mexico’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Your Area of Interest