50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
Featured Programs
50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- Harvard University
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Philosophy, Law, Biology
- University of California, Berkeley
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Chemistry, Biology, Physics
- Columbia University
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Social Work, Nursing, Literature
- University of Chicago
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Anthropology, Sociology, Economics
- Stanford University
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Computer Science, Psychology, Biology
- Yale University
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Law, Religious Studies, Nursing
- Princeton University
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Mathematics, Philosophy, Physics
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Computer Science, Engineering, Economics
- University of Michigan
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Sociology, Psychology, Engineering
- Cornell University
- Most Popular Degree Programs: Biology, Engineering, Literature
Key Takeaways
- A degree from one of the best graduate schools will help to set grads apart from the competition in the job market today.
- Graduate students will develop a deep knowledge of their major through advanced research.
- Graduates of one of our ranked graduate degree programs will continue to develop their expertise beyond the knowledge they gained in their undergraduate studies.
Best Graduate Schools for 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.
New York University moved up 2 positions into the top 10 best Graduate Schools in the US for 2025. Stanford University also moved up 1 position into the 4th position.
Harvard University has a unique interdisciplinary exchange program called IvyPlus Exchange Scholar Program, whicha allows students to study at other top institutions such as Stanford, UC Berkeley, and Columbia for a term or an academic year.
Columbia University has bolstered its focus on digital health and technology through new research centers that integrate data science and healthcare, making it an attractive option for students in medical and tech fields.
Stanford University expanded its interdisciplinary research through collaborations with industry and government, particularly in areas like AI, sustainability, and biotechnology, giving graduate students more opportunities for impactful projects.
50 Best Grad Schools in the US
- #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
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 salaryHarvard University features 12 graduate and professional schools recognized for their impactful scholarship and cutting-edge research.
What we love about Harvard University:
Harvard University has a rigorous admission process for its highly sought-after graduate programs.
Harvard University is ideal for students who:
Look for a challenging and rigorous graduate experience.
Harvard University might not be ideal for students who:
Are uncertain about meeting the challenges of Harvard’s academic curriculum.
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #1 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
11%
Graduation
94%
Student body
48K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Berkeley
Cost of Degree: $14,850Expenses: $30,203Starting Salary: $79,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of California, Berkeley, aims to advance graduate students’ careers through high-quality, innovative education.
What we love about the University of California, Berkeley:
The university helps students every step of the way when it comes to exploring their career paths and pursuing their professional goals.
The University of California, Berkeley is ideal for students who:
Have the ability or desire to take on rigorous academic challenges.
The University of California, Berkeley might not be ideal for students who:
Prefer more conservative education environments.
- #2 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #2 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #2 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #3 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$66K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
95%
Student body
37K
Median SAT/ACT
1535/34
Career Outlook for degree at Columbia University
Cost of Degree: $68,171Expenses: $20,542Starting Salary: $115,600Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryColumbia University is recognized as one of the world’s most important research centers.
What we love about Columbia University:
Columbia University offers a distinctive learning environment for graduate students across a wide range of professional fields.
Columbia University is ideal for students who:
Care about and want to contribute to human flourishing.
Columbia University might not be ideal for students who:
Do not share the commitment to thoughtful, rigorous debate.
- #3 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #3 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #4 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
95%
Student body
20K
Median SAT/ACT
1540/34
Career Outlook for degree at Stanford University
Cost of Degree: $62,484Expenses: $25,349Starting Salary: $141,300Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryStanford University offers more than 200 graduate programs across seven schools.
What we love about Stanford University:
Stanford University provides learning opportunities that empower one’s dreams.
Stanford University is ideal for students who:
Are willing to create and apply knowledge by thinking and doing.
Stanford University might not be ideal for students who:
Do not have the leadership mindset.
- #4 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #4 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #4 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #5 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$64K
Acceptance
5%
Graduation
96%
Student body
21K
Median SAT/ACT
1540/34
Career Outlook for degree at University of Chicago
Cost of Degree: $65,619Expenses: $23,421Starting Salary: $103,000Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Chicago highlights the importance of transformative education through its comprehensive list of graduate programs.
What we love about the University of Chicago:
The university equips graduate students with the intellectual skills to confront complex challenges.
The University of Chicago is ideal for students who:
Are open to rigorous inquiry and diverse, original ideas.
The University of Chicago might not be ideal for students who:
Do not believe ideas can transform the world.
- #5 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #5 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #6 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #6 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
5%
Graduation
98%
Student body
16K
Median SAT/ACT
1540/34
Career Outlook for degree at Yale University
Cost of Degree: $64,700Expenses: $23,600Starting Salary: $124,400Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryYale University remains committed to expanding and sharing knowledge through its transformative academic graduate programs.
What we love about Yale University:
Yale University offers advanced degrees to help graduate students realize their full potential and boost their credentials.
Yale University is ideal for students who:
Are willing to discover new passions and knowledge that will change their lives.
Yale University might not be ideal for students who:
Are afraid to venture into unfamiliar fields of knowledge.
- #4 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #6 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #6 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #7 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
6%
Graduation
97%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1535/34
Career Outlook for degree at Princeton University
Cost of Degree: $59,710Expenses: $24,330Starting Salary: $116,300Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryPrinceton University offers an enriching learning experience for students while cultivating a sense of service to humanity in them.
What we love about Princeton University:
Princeton University features graduate programs with an emphasis on learning, creativity, collaboration, and innovation.
Princeton University is ideal for students who:
Want to take on the challenge of pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through research and scholarship.
Princeton University might not be ideal for students who:
Are not interested in completing independent and original research.
- #5 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #7 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #7 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #8 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 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 salaryMassachusetts Institute of Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology underlines teaching and research enterprise in its graduate programs.
What we love about the Massachusetts Institute of Technology:
MIT is known for its global standard of excellence.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology is ideal for students who:
Seek a graduate education that can bring career advancement and personal growth.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology might not be ideal for students who:
Are not interested in figuring out solutions to complex problems.
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #2 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$18K
Acceptance
18%
Graduation
93%
Student body
52K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for degree at University of Michigan
Cost of Degree: $18,309Expenses: $17,554Starting Salary: $79,000Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Michigan is focused on creating brighter futures through its comprehensive and innovative academic programs.
What we love about the University of Michigan:
The university has created a dynamic climate that allows graduate students to thrive.
The University of Michigan is ideal for students who:
Look for holistic graduate training.
The University of Michigan might not be ideal for students who:
Are hesitant to take part in solving complex, real-world problems.
- #8 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #8 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #10 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #10 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
87%
Student body
65K
Median SAT/ACT
1520/34
Career Outlook for degree at New York University
Cost of Degree: $60,438Expenses: $27,314Starting Salary: $78,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryNew York University is known as one of the world’s prominent research universities, with its top-ranked graduate programs.
What we love about New York University:
The university features a community characterized by collaboration and innovation.
New York University is ideal for students who:
Want a quality graduate education to strengthen their skills and expertise and emerge as a thought leader and innovator.
New York University might not be ideal for students who:
Do not care to sharpen their academic and professional pursuits.
- #1 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #6 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #9 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #9 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
95%
Student body
26K
Median SAT/ACT
1520/34
Career Outlook for degree at Cornell University
Cost of Degree: $66,014Expenses: $22,126Starting Salary: $101,200Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryCornell University is committed to prioritizing public engagement by contributing in all fields of knowledge through its rigorous academic programs.
What we love about Cornell University:
Cornell University has a rich tradition of research and innovation.
Cornell University is ideal for students who:
Seek a rigorous education to prepare them for rewarding careers in advanced fields.
Cornell University might not be ideal for students who:
Are not willing to be collaborators in learning and research.
- #5 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #10 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #10 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #10 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
96%
Student body
33K
Median SAT/ACT
1535/34
Career Outlook for degree at University of Pennsylvania
Cost of Degree: $66,104Expenses: $22,924Starting Salary: $131,600Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Pennsylvania boasts an innovative culture in its academic programs.
What we love about the University of Pennsylvania:
The university offers students a transformative education informed by intellectual rigor.
The University of Pennsylvania is ideal for students who:
Share a passion for engaging with communities around the world.
The University of Pennsylvania might not be ideal for students who:
Only focus on enriching their careers.
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #3 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
9%
Graduation
92%
Student body
49K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Los Angeles
Cost of Degree: $13,747Expenses: $24,284Starting Salary: $73,200Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of California, Los Angeles, is a public research university committed to the spread of knowledge.
What we love about the University of California, Los Angeles:
The University of California, Los Angeles, provides endless opportunities for career advancement and personal growth.
The University of California, Los Angeles is ideal for students who:
Want to make the world a better place through the advancement of education.
The University of California, Los Angeles might not be ideal for students who:
Are hesitant to reach their full potential.
- #11 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #11 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #11 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #14 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
94%
Student body
40K
Median SAT/ACT
1545/34
Career Outlook for degree at Johns Hopkins University
Cost of Degree: $62,840Expenses: $22,725Starting Salary: $89,300Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryJohns Hopkins University is dedicated to advancing individual scholars through quality education.
What we love about Johns Hopkins University:
The university combines the power of teaching and research to produce brilliant graduates who can change the world.
Johns Hopkins University is ideal for students who:
Seek the solutions to difficult problems.
Johns Hopkins University might not be ideal for students who:
Are afraid to challenge the way things are done.
- #1 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #12 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #12 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
3%
Graduation
94%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at California Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $63,255Expenses: $23,631Starting Salary: $106,300Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe California Institute of Technology addresses fundamental scientific questions and pressing societal challenges through its diverse academic programs.
What we love about the California Institute of Technology:
This educational institution seeks to expand human knowledge through education heavily integrated with research.
California Institute of Technology is ideal for students who:
Look for a university that emphasizes excellence and ambition.
California Institute of Technology might not be ideal for students who:
Wish to avoid rigorous curriculum in their graduate education.
- #1 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees 2025 #1 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #6 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
6%
Graduation
97%
Student body
18K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Duke University
Cost of Degree: $65,805Expenses: $21,267Starting Salary: $114,500Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryDuke University provides a superior liberal education to those who want to attain intellectual growth.
What we love about Duke University:
The university offers a wide range of educational opportunities beyond its campuses.
Duke University is ideal for students who:
Want to take their careers to the next level.
Duke University might not be ideal for students who:
Lack the drive to advance and grow professionally.
- #9 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #14 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #14 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #17 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$65K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
92%
Student body
54K
Median SAT/ACT
1500/33
Career Outlook for degree at University of Southern California
Cost of Degree: $68,237Expenses: $22,216Starting Salary: $88,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Southern California leads the way to the future of education through its rigorous academic programs and collaborative learning environment.
What we love about the University of Southern California:
The university commits more than $30 million of financial aid annually to help combat the rising costs of education.
The University of Southern California is ideal for students who:
Want to prepare for leadership roles in research, education, and professional practice.
The University of Southern California might not be ideal for students who:
Are looking for less expensive education options.
- #4 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #4 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #4 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #4 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
31%
Graduation
88%
Student body
55K
Median SAT/ACT
1365/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of Texas at Austin
Cost of Degree: $11,678Expenses: $19,894Starting Salary: $73,900Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Texas at Austin known for?
University of Texas at Austin’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- Physics
- Law
- Literature
- History
- Earth Sciences
- Social Work
- Computer Science
- Philosophy
- Engineering
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #5 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #5 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
48%
Graduation
84%
Student body
58K
Career Outlook for degree at University of Washington
Cost of Degree: $12,643Expenses: $21,909Starting Salary: $69,600Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of Washington serves as a hub for learning, education, and community building.
What we love about the University of Washington:
The university is committed to serving the greater good.
The University of Washington is ideal for students who:
Aim to learn and build solutions for tomorrow’s challenges.
The University of Washington might not be ideal for students who:
Prefer more traditional education environments.
- #14 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #15 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #15 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #18 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
97%
Student body
27K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Northwestern University
Cost of Degree: $65,997Expenses: $25,293Starting Salary: $93,400Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryNorthwestern University offers excellent teaching and innovative research to promote personal and intellectual growth.
What we love about Northwestern University:
The university provides a rigorous yet empathetic academic environment that blends theory and practice.
Northwestern University is ideal for students who:
Want to gain knowledge with practical applications.
Northwestern University might not be ideal for students who:
Are not open to belonging in an innovative and collaborative learning community.
- #6 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #6 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #6 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #21 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$16K
Acceptance
75%
Graduation
84%
Student body
61K
Median SAT/ACT
1395/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of Minnesota
Cost of Degree: $16,488Expenses: $16,378Starting Salary: $61,200Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Minnesota known for?
University of Minnesota’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #15 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #16 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #16 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
11%
Graduation
92%
Student body
16K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Carnegie Mellon University
Cost of Degree: $63,274Expenses: $19,868Starting Salary: $103,000Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Carnegie Mellon University known for?
Carnegie Mellon University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Economics
- Business
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Psychology
- Physics
- Education
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #6 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #7 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #7 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #7 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
89%
Student body
51K
Median SAT/ACT
1425/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of Wisconsin–Madison
Cost of Degree: $11,205Expenses: $17,700Starting Salary: $68,000Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Wisconsin–Madison known for?
University of Wisconsin–Madison’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- History
- Earth Sciences
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Anthropology
- Biology
- Psychology
- Computer Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #16 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #17 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #17 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
Tuition + fees
$65K
Acceptance
5%
Graduation
95%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1535/35
Career Outlook for degree at Brown University
Cost of Degree: $68,230Expenses: $19,418Starting Salary: $89,100Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Brown University known for?
Brown University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Mathematics
- History
- Education
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Communications
- Political Science
- Philosophy
- Engineering
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #17 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #18 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #18 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
96%
Student body
24K
Median SAT/ACT
1485/33
Career Outlook for degree at Georgetown University
Cost of Degree: $65,081Expenses: $23,660Starting Salary: $125,200Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Georgetown University known for?
Georgetown University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Law
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Religious Studies
- Nursing
- Education
- Business
- Communications
- Economics
- History
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #8 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #8 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$21K
Acceptance
19%
Graduation
95%
Student body
29K
Median SAT/ACT
1470/33
Career Outlook for degree at University of Virginia
Cost of Degree: $22,323Expenses: $18,940Starting Salary: $79,400Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Virginia known for?
University of Virginia’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #8 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #9 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
24%
Graduation
88%
Student body
44K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, San Diego
Cost of Degree: $15,265Expenses: $23,240Starting Salary: $69,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryThe University of California, San Diego, is recognized as one of the top research universities in the world.
What we love about the University of California, San Diego:
University of California, San Diego, is committed to helping students become change-makers.
The University of California, San Diego is ideal for students who:
Seek to gain multidisciplinary tools to address the world’s most pressing issues.
The University of California, San Diego might not be ideal for students who:
Lack the enthusiasm to make a difference in the world.
- #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
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
- #11 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #12 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #12 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Pennsylvania 2025
Tuition + fees
$21K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
84%
Student body
36K
Median SAT/ACT
1375/31
Career Outlook for degree at University of Pittsburgh
Cost of Degree: $21,524Expenses: $16,922Starting Salary: $61,200Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Pittsburgh known for?
University of Pittsburgh’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Medical
- Criminal Justice
- Biology
- Anthropology
- Social Work
- Psychology
- History
- Computer Science
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
- #19 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #20 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #23 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #1 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2025
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
94%
Student body
19K
Median SAT/ACT
1535/34
Career Outlook for degree at Washington University in St. Louis
Cost of Degree: $62,982Expenses: $25,506Starting Salary: $87,900Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Washington University in St. Louis known for?
Washington University in St. Louis’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #18 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #20 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #21 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #24 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
6%
Graduation
95%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1540/34
Career Outlook for degree at Dartmouth College
Cost of Degree: $65,511Expenses: $22,054Starting Salary: $110,200Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Dartmouth College known for?
Dartmouth College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Business
- Literature
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- History
- Earth Sciences
- Medical
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Religious Studies
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #12 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
17%
Graduation
91%
Student body
34K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Cost of Degree: $8,989Expenses: $17,120Starting Salary: $68,800Cost Recoup Time: 8 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill known for?
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #13 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #14 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #14 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
26%
Graduation
86%
Student body
28K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Santa Barbara
Cost of Degree: $14,965Expenses: $25,622Starting Salary: $62,400Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Santa Barbara known for?
University of California, Santa Barbara’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Physics
- Earth Sciences
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Religious Studies
- Psychology
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #11 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #15 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #16 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
83%
Student body
55K
Median SAT/ACT
1335/30
Career Outlook for degree at Purdue University
Cost of Degree: $9,992Expenses: $14,890Starting Salary: $62,200Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Purdue University known for?
Purdue University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #23 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in DC 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in DC 2025 #2 Best Private Colleges in DC 2024
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
85%
Student body
30K
Median SAT/ACT
1410/32
Career Outlook for degree at George Washington University
Cost of Degree: $64,798Expenses: $19,325Starting Salary: $82,400Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is George Washington University known for?
George Washington University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Criminal Justice
- Law
- Communications
- Business
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Medical
- Education
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
- #11 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #16 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #17 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #17 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
45%
Graduation
89%
Student body
42K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for degree at University of Maryland, College Park
Cost of Degree: $11,505Expenses: $19,380Starting Salary: $70,800Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Maryland, College Park known for?
University of Maryland, College Park’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Sociology
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Earth Sciences
- Psychology
- Social Work
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #12 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #17 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #18 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$18K
Acceptance
45%
Graduation
85%
Student body
62K
Median SAT/ACT
1415/31
Career Outlook for degree at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Cost of Degree: $18,060Expenses: $17,638Starting Salary: $70,900Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign known for?
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Engineering
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Economics
- Biology
- Philosophy
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #19 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #19 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Research Universities in Iowa 2025
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
74%
Student body
33K
Median SAT/ACT
1235/25
Career Outlook for degree at University of Iowa
Cost of Degree: $10,964Expenses: $17,632Starting Salary: $62,000Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Iowa known for?
University of Iowa’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #20 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
68%
Student body
54K
Median SAT/ACT
1255/25
Career Outlook for degree at University of Arizona
Cost of Degree: $13,277Expenses: $19,500Starting Salary: $56,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Arizona known for?
University of Arizona’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Earth Sciences
- Communications
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- Philosophy
- Chemistry
- Business
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
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
- #19 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #21 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #21 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
21%
Graduation
87%
Student body
39K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Irvine
Cost of Degree: $14,237Expenses: $24,814Starting Salary: $65,800Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Irvine known for?
University of California, Irvine’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Biology
- Literature
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #4 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #5 Best Colleges in New York 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in New York 2024
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
52%
Graduation
83%
Student body
37K
Median SAT/ACT
1345/30
Career Outlook for degree at Syracuse University
Cost of Degree: $63,061Expenses: $22,086Starting Salary: $69,200Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Syracuse University known for?
Syracuse University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Communications
- Business
- Literature
- Earth Sciences
- Social Work
- Education
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #22 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Pennsylvania 2025 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Pennsylvania 2024
What is Pennsylvania State University known for?
Pennsylvania State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Education
- Biology
- Criminal Justice
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
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
- #21 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #23 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #24 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #2 Best Colleges in Michigan 2025
Tuition + fees
$17K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
82%
Student body
54K
Median SAT/ACT
1260/28
Career Outlook for degree at Michigan State University
Cost of Degree: $17,270Expenses: $16,680Starting Salary: $63,200Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Michigan State University known for?
Michigan State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers 2025 #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #24 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #25 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
89%
Graduation
65%
Student body
40K
Median SAT/ACT
1290/25
Career Outlook for degree at University of Utah
Cost of Degree: $9,315Expenses: $21,298Starting Salary: $63,500Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Utah known for?
University of Utah’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #15 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen #1 Best Grad Schools in Tennessee 2025 #1 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Tennessee 2025
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
93%
Student body
15K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Vanderbilt University
Cost of Degree: $63,946Expenses: $25,644Starting Salary: $86,200Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Vanderbilt University known for?
Vanderbilt University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools California 2025 #10 Best Research Universities in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
37%
Graduation
86%
Student body
43K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Davis
Cost of Degree: $15,247Expenses: $25,808Starting Salary: $68,100Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Davis known for?
University of California, Davis’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Biology
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- Earth Sciences
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Economics
- Anthropology
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
- #19 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #1 Best Private Colleges in Texas 2024 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
Tuition + fees
$55K
Acceptance
9%
Graduation
94%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/35
Career Outlook for degree at Rice University
Cost of Degree: $58,128Expenses: $20,150Starting Salary: $91,600Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Rice University known for?
Rice University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Business
- History
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #3 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #12 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #23 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
67%
Student body
85K
Career Outlook for degree at Arizona State University
Cost of Degree: $12,051Expenses: $21,219Starting Salary: $55,500Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Arizona State University known for?
Arizona State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Business
- Engineering
- Education
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- History
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
How can you choose the best grad school for you?
A good answer to this question looks to your personal and professional goals. Certain professions will require you to earn an advanced degree. In other cases, an advanced degree can make you eligible for leadership roles and higher pay. For instance, the best graduate schools for education can improve your earnings as a teacher, make you eligible for tenure, or help you meet the basic threshold for continued employment. On the other hand, the best graduate schools for business can simply make you a more competitive candidate for job openings and management roles.
The best grad school for you should have a stellar reputation and employ highly influential professors across the board and especially in your area of study. Indeed, much exciting academic work these days is cross-disciplinary, and for such work to flourish it helps to be at a school that is strong across discipines. The following list is composed of graduate schools, both private and public. We’ve identified 1,682 graduate schools in the US. In order to be included in this list of best graduate schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions that offer advanced degrees and put a premium on research.
Student Submitted Questions on the Best Graduate Schools
Nate asks, “What are the average class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios in the top-ranked graduate programs?”
Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: Average class sizes in the top graduate programs tend to range between 10 and 20 students in size. In seminar-style courses and advanced research classes, there is a potential for the classes to be even smaller. In regards to student-to-faculty ratios, in highly ranked programs ratios like 10:1 or even lower are common.
Minnie asks, “How diverse and inclusive are top graduate programs?”
Dr. James Barham’s answer: The diversity and inclusivity of programs will vary, but many of the top graduate schools are known for being diverse and attracting large international student populations. These institutions also typically feature support programs that are aimed to represent and back underrepresented groups.
Earn a Master’s Degree Close to Home
You know now that a master’s degree from one of the best graduate degree schools can give you a leg up in this competitive job market.
But, did you know that you can get a top-notch master’s degree at a school that is also close to home? If that interests you, check out our list of the best colleges and universities in each state.
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.
Photo Credit: Harvard University’s Harvard Yard, By Mancala English Wikipedia, Public Domain.