50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024

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Best Research Universities for Undergrads

  1. Harvard University
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
  2. University of California, Berkeley
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
  3. Columbia University
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1
  4. University of Chicago
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 5 to 1
  5. Stanford University
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 5 to 1
  6. Yale University
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 6 to 1
  7. Princeton University
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 5 to 1
  8. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 3 to 1
  9. Cornell University
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1
  10. University of Pennsylvania
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: 8 to 1

Key Takeaways

  • A great research university will expand your academic networking opportunities with some of the most influential professors in the world.
  • Because of the huge research budgets at large research universities, students will be on the cutting edge of the latest technology and discoveries.
  • A research university is the perfect choice for those students interested in pursuing a STEM degree.

A research university is a great option for students interested in obtaining STEM degrees. Such students benefit from engaging in experimental inquiry, exploring cutting-edge technologies, and pursuing innovation in a rich and dynamic campus atmosphere. The top research universities give students a chance to work closely with influential professors and choose from a wide range of well-funded degree programs and research opportunities.

What is a research university?

A research university is any university that invests heavily in research, and which consequently provides meaningful and extensive opportunities for its students and faculty to participate in research.

The best research universities are classified based on their quantifiable commitment to research activities. This tiered ranking is called the Carnegie Classification. This is where terms like R1 university and tier one university come from.

Are you interested in attending a school where cutting-edge innovation converges with academic excellence? Check out our look at the most technologically advanced colleges in the United States. These schools also typically offer degrees that can lead to some of the highest starting salaries, even for undergrads.

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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.

Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges

If you would like to see this ranking without school size considered, visit our best universities in the US ranking.

The following list of research universities is composed of both private and public schools. We’ve identified 399 research universities in the US. Of those, there are 190 private research universities in the US. In order to be included in this list of best research universities, a school must be a fully accredited university, offer doctoral degrees across the range of STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math), and it must report high levels of research activity based upon the number of research and/or practice doctorates awarded each year.

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The Best Research Universities for Undergrads in the US

  1. #1

    Harvard University

    Cambridge , MA
    Other Rankings

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

    Research at Harvard

    Harvard is home to more Nobel Prize winners than any other university, and is second in Fields Medal award winners, right behind Princeton University.

    The school has cutting-edge research facilities and world-renowned faculty. Undergraduate students have a wide range of research opportunities in areas such as cosmology, particle physics, and condensed matter physics.

    What we love about it:

    Being a global brand, students at Harvard get exposed to students from all over the world.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Stand to benefit professionally from Ivy League academics and prestige.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not take too kindly to all the Ivy League air of exclusivity.

  2. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    48K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Berkeley

    Cost of Degree: $14,395
    Expenses: $28,648
    Starting Salary: $79,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at the University of California, Berkeley

    While Berkeley conducts research across a wide range of disciplines, the school’s research often focuses on societal well-being. Through the Goldman School of Public Policy, Berkeley Law, and the Blum Center for Developing Economies, numerous research initiatives address pressing social, economic, and environmental issues.

    Berkeley also has a strong focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, with initiatives like the Berkeley Innovation Index, SkyDeck, and the Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship & Technology.

    What we love about it:

    It is steeped in history but also leads the way in various aspects.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Want their college experience to be vibrant and dynamic, with various academic and non-academic opportunities.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might get easily overwhelmed by very large universities.

  3. #3

    Columbia University

    New York , NY
    Other Rankings

    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: $65,508
    Expenses: $19,958
    Starting Salary: $115,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Columbia

    Columbia University operates over 200 research centers and institutes and has a world-renowned medical center. The school boasts a research budget of over $1+ billion, 400 new inventions each year, and 87 Nobel laureates associated with the university.

    What we love about it:

    Being in New York City gives a unique flavor to its student life & overall college experience.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Thrive in dynamic and highly energetic environments.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not like the overall high cost of living in New York City.

  4. #4

    University of Chicago

    Chicago , IL
    Other Rankings

    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: $62,940
    Expenses: $22,596
    Starting Salary: $103,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at the University of Chicago

    Ninety-nine scholars associated with the University of Chicago have been named Nobel laureates. The school has two U.S. Department of Energy laboratories—Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab—and the world-renowned Marine Biological Laboratory. A majority of undergraduate students choose to engage in research.

    What we love about it:

    It has produced one the highest number of Nobel laureates in the world, which speaks of its academic quality.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Are perhaps looking for somewhere with a strong liberal arts foundation.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Don’t like the Great Lakes area’s cold and harsh winters.

  5. #5

    Stanford University

    Stanford , CA
    Other Rankings

    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: $58,416
    Expenses: $23,746
    Starting Salary: $141,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Stanford

    Stanford’s total sponsored research support revenue is a whopping $1.98 billion, which supports more than 7,500 projects throughout the school across a range of disciplines.

    Stanford supports 15 independent interdisciplinary labs, centers, and institutes in areas that range from economic studies, the environment, energy, and health. The school also supports 9 STEM-based labs.

    Stanford operates the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy. Research at the SLAC spans chemistry, materials and energy sciences, bioscience, fusion energy science, high-energy physics, cosmology, advanced accelerator and technology development, and advanced computer science.

    What we love about it:

    Its proximity to Silicon Valley gives students a unique opportunity to get their foot early into industry leaders’ doors.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Stand to benefit from its notable pioneering and entrepreneurial culture.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not be able to handle the overall high cost of living of its host city.

  6. #6

    Yale University

    New Haven , CT
    Other Rankings

    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: $62,250
    Expenses: $22,870
    Starting Salary: $124,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Yale

    Yale university has over one million square feet of lab space that includes more than 800 laboratories, and numerous research centers and institutes. The school’s main areas of research include biotechnology, environmental science, oncology, pharmaceuticals, and quantum computing.

    What we love about it:

    Yale is also known for its highly diverse and engaging student life.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Want a well-rounded college experience with lots to do and learn.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might have a low level of tolerance/acceptance of diverse perspectives.

  7. #7

    Princeton University

    Princeton , NJ
    Other Rankings

    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: $57,410
    Expenses: $23,005
    Starting Salary: $116,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Princeton

    Princeton University is considered one of the best research universities in the world because of its distinguished faculty, commitment to interdisciplinary research, and small student-to-faculty ratio.

    As of October 2022, 79 Nobel laureates and 13 Fields Medal award winners have been affiliated with Princeton University. The majority of the school’s research falls into four disciplines: engineering and applied sciences, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences.

    What we love about it:

    It is well-known for its increased focus on undergraduate education.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Want a high-quality and prestigious undergraduate college experience.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking to take up a non-liberal arts/engineering major.

  8. Other Rankings

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

    Research at MIT

    MIT is a private research university. According to their website, there have been 101 Nobel laureates, 61 National Medal of Science recipients, 33 National Medals of Technology and Innovation, 83 MacArthur Fellows, and 17 A. M. Turing Awards have been affiliated with MIT.

    The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) gives students the opportunity to collaborate with renowned MIT faculty on real-world research happening across the school. Many students who participate in the program go on to become published, file patent applications, or even launch start-ups.

    Massachusetts Institute of Technology or MIT was founded in 1861. It continues to lead the way in advancing modern technology.

    What we love about it:

    It is almost unmatched worldwide in the field of engineering and the sciences.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for the best education in the sciences that can open many doors professionally.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Aren’t ready to handle huge amounts of stress and academic pressure.

  9. #9

    Cornell University

    Ithaca , NY
    Other Rankings

    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: $63,200
    Expenses: $19,996
    Starting Salary: $101,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Cornell University

    Cornell’s excellence as a research university spans a wide range of disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, life sciences, physical sciences, social sciences, and business, among others.

    Cornell provides opportunities for undergrads to engage in research alongside faculty mentors. Students can gain research skills and contribute to scholarly inquiry while pursuing a bachelor’s degree.

    What we love about it:

    It is arguably one of the most beautiful campuses in the country in terms of natural beauty.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Perhaps love the outdoors and would love for it to be part of their college experience.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might want to be in an equally good university but in a big city.

  10. #10

    University of Pennsylvania

    Philadelphia , PA
    Other Rankings

    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: $63,452
    Expenses: $22,286
    Starting Salary: $131,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at the University of Pennsylvania

    The University of Pennsylvania’s location in Philadelphia is a hub for healthcare, technology, and finance. The school has been able to forge strategic partnerships with leading corporations, research institutions, and government agencies, a boon for faculty and students alike.

    UPenn emphasizes translating research initiatives into real-world applications and solutions. The university actively supports entrepreneurship and technology commercialization through initiatives like the Penn Center for Innovation.

    The school also encourages collaboration among faculty and students outside of normal academic boundaries, creating initiatives like Penn Integrates Knowledge (PIK) professorships, which is specifically for professors who hold joint appointments across two disciplines.

    What we love about it:

    Philadelphia is quite affordable to live in for a big city.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Might want to pursue a business-related degree.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not like the university’s overall large size and the ensuing impersonality.

  11. #11

    Johns Hopkins University

    Baltimore , MD
    Other Rankings

    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: $60,480
    Expenses: $20,320
    Starting Salary: $89,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Johns Hopkins

    Johns Hopkins is known for its research and education, and has the highest federal research funding of any American university. 80% of JHU students participate in research. The Provost’s Undergraduate Research Awards (PURA) program was created to support and encourage undergraduate students to engage in independent research under the guidance of JHU faculty.

    The university also claims nearly 3700 patented inventions, the likes of which generated more than $32.1 million in revenue.

  12. Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    3%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at California Institute of Technology

    Cost of Degree: $60,864
    Expenses: $22,734
    Starting Salary: $106,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at CalTech

    CalTech is classified as an “R1: Doctoral Universities – Very High Research Activity” institution. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is managed by CalTech through a partnership with NASA. The school also manages a number of observatories, a marine laboratory, an institute for space studies, and a Joint Center for Translational Medicine with UCLA (UCLA-Caltech JCTM).

    Undergraduate students are encouraged to participate in the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) program. Approximately 80% of the student body participates in the program at least one time during their studies.

    What we love about it:

    Its small size is the perfect opportunity for undergraduate students to work closely with grad students and faculty.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a highly specialized university that excels in the sciences.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be looking to study in a non-STEM field.

  13. #13

    Duke University

    Durham , NC
    Other Rankings

    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: $62,688
    Expenses: $20,061
    Starting Salary: $114,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Duke University

    Duke University is located in the Research Triangle area of central North Carolina, giving it a prime location for collaborations with external partners. The school focuses on specific areas of study, such as health, energy, the environment, public policy, and global affairs.

    Duke even has an Innovation & Entrepreneurship Department that provides resources, mentorship, and funding to help students translate their ideas into products and services.

    What we love about it:

    Duke University is more than its academic prestige. The university’s athletic programs also stand out.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Want to surround themselves with highly motivated and intelligent peers.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not have a lot of self-confidence or might tend to compare themselves to others needlessly.

  14. #14

    Northwestern University

    Evanston , IL
    Other Rankings

    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: $63,468
    Expenses: $25,926
    Starting Salary: $93,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Northwestern University

    Like all of the other colleges in our list, Northwestern has state-of-the-art research facilities, but the school also supports innovation through initiatives like The Garage and the Farley Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

    Northwestern’s research initiatives are especially strong in specific areas of study, such as nanotechnology, neuroscience, global health, and data science.

    What we love about it:

    Among its various strong points is its beautiful lakeshore campus.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for a standout and innovative university.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    May be easily affected by the area’s cold weather.

  15. #15

    Carnegie Mellon University

    Pittsburgh , PA
    Other Rankings

    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: $60,854
    Expenses: $18,886
    Starting Salary: $103,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Carnegie Mellon

    Carnegie Mellon is definitely a leader in research universities in the US. The world’s largest robotics research and development organization, the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), is housed within Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute (RI).

    The Software Engineering Institute (SEI) at Carnegie Mellon University is one of only 10 Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) in the US. The institute conducts research and development in software engineering, systems engineering, cybersecurity, and many other areas.

    What we love about it:

    It excels in fostering collaboration and interdisciplinary study.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Thrive under pressure and are highly motivated to put huge amounts of effort into their academics.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Aren’t mentally equipped for intense academic workloads.

  16. #16

    Brown University

    Providence , RI
    Other Rankings

    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: $65,046
    Expenses: $18,540
    Starting Salary: $89,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Brown University

    Brown University conducts research across a wide range of disciplines, but is known especially for its initiatives in the fields of health care, technology, social justice, and the arts. Initiatives like the Institute at Brown for Environment and Society (IBES) and the Data Science Initiative facilitate collaborative research across disciplines.

    What we love about it:

    It is renowned among the Ivy League for its open curriculum that lets students better plan out their studies.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Have a clear idea of their preferred major, as well as the type of academic journey they would prefer.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Go in thinking that Brown University is relaxed/not rigorous.

  17. #17

    Georgetown University

    Washington , DC
    Other Rankings

    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: $62,051
    Expenses: $22,644
    Starting Salary: $125,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Georgetown University

    Located in Washington, D.C., Georgetown University offers unique opportunities for research collaboration opportunities with government agencies, international organizations, think tanks, and NGOs. Its close proximity to policymakers enriches research initiatives and facilitates partnerships.

    The university provides state-of-the-art research facilities and laboratories to support faculty and student research endeavors.

    What we love about it:

    It stands out for being a leading university in the diplomacy, policy, government, and business fields.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Stand to benefit from its location at the country’s capital.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Wouldn’t like the overall vibe of Washington, DC.

  18. #18

    Dartmouth College

    Hanover , NH
    Other Rankings

    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: $62,430
    Expenses: $21,144
    Starting Salary: $110,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Dartmouth College

    Dartmouth college emphasizes research opportunities for undergraduate students and provides faculty mentors to those students. Undergraduates can gain hands-on research skills, contribute to scholarly inquiry, and explore their interests in various fields.

    What we love about it:

    Despite being a research university, it continues to maintain a significant focus on undergraduate education.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Are looking for the quintessential college experience, enhanced by a vibrant and international student body.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might not be inclined to venture outside their comfort zones.

  19. #19

    Rice University

    Houston , TX
    Other Rankings

    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: $54,960
    Expenses: $19,150
    Starting Salary: $91,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Rice University

    Much of the research at Rice University focuses on public policy and societal well-being. Through initiatives like the Baker Institute for Public Policy and the Kinder Institute for Urban Research, the school engages works to address social, economic, and environmental issues.

    Rice also has a strong focus on entrepreneurship and innovation. The Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship and the Liu Idea Lab for Innovation and Entrepreneurship are two examples where the school encourages researchers and students to translate their ideas into real-world applications, startups, and ventures.

    What we love about it:

    It emphasizes collaborative education among its students.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Want to take up studies in any of the Engineering/science-related fields.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Might be thinking of taking a major in the humanities or social sciences.

  20. #20

    Yeshiva University

    New York , NY
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $49K

    Acceptance

    63%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1375/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Yeshiva University

    Cost of Degree: $48,800
    Expenses: $20,500
    Starting Salary: $78,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Yeshiva University

    Yeshiva University is home to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, which is known for its research in biomedical sciences, healthcare, and medical education. Faculty and researchers at Einstein conduct research in areas such as cancer, neuroscience, genetics, and infectious diseases.

    The Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at Yeshiva University is also known for its research in the field of law. The legal research conducted at the school contributes to shaping legal discourse and policy.

    What we love about it:

    It stands out among universities for primarily catering to the needs of the country’s significant Jewish community.

    This university is ideal for students who:

    Are from the Jewish community and are looking for the best institution to cater to their specific needs.

    This university may not be ideal for students who:

    Aren’t from the Jewish community, which has its unique practices and customs.

  21. #21

    Brandeis University

    Waltham , MA
    Other Rankings

    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: $62,322
    Expenses: $19,592
    Starting Salary: $69,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Brandeis University

    Brandeis University has a strong commitment to social justice and equity, and as such, researchers at the school strive to make a positive impact on society through their scholarly work and engagement with local and global communities. Their research initiatives have a significant global impact, with collaborations, projects, and partnerships taking place around the world.

  22. #22

    University of Michigan

    Ann Arbor , MI
    Other Rankings

    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: $17,786
    Expenses: $16,820
    Starting Salary: $79,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at the University of Michigan

    The University of Michigan has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with initiatives like the Center for Entrepreneurship. The school also informs public policy through initiatives like the Poverty Solutions initiative and the Center for Sustainable Systems.

  23. #23

    New York University

    New York , NY
    Other Rankings

    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: $58,168
    Expenses: $23,927
    Starting Salary: $78,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at New York University

    New York University’s location in New York City offers numerous research opportunities with industry, government agencies, cultural institutions, and non-profit organizations. The school often has a specific focus on public policy, and that shows through initiatives such as the Marron Institute of Urban Management and the Furman Center for Real Estate and Urban Policy.

    NYU encourages research opportunities for their undergraduate students alongside faculty mentors.

  24. #24

    Tufts University

    Medford , MA
    Other Rankings

    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: $65,222
    Expenses: $19,378
    Starting Salary: $103,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at Tufts University

    Tufts University has multiple campuses, offering opportunities for research with industry, government, healthcare, and non-profit agencies, among others. The university’s close proximity to Boston, enhances the research opportunities.

    The school engages in research that addresses social, economic, and environmental issues, and as such, conducts research through the Tisch College of Civic Life and the Feinstein International Center. Tufts is also a proponent of entrepreneurship through the Tufts Entrepreneurship Center and the Gordon Institute.

  25. #25

    University of Rochester

    Rochester , NY
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $62K

    Acceptance

    39%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    13K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1465/32

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Rochester

    Cost of Degree: $61,678
    Expenses: $20,922
    Starting Salary: $74,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Research at the University of Rochester

    The University of Rochester is renowned for its medical and health sciences research. The School of Medicine and Dentistry conducts cutting-edge biomedical research, clinical trials, and healthcare innovation.

    The school also contributes research in the area of public policy through research centers such as the Rochester Center for Community Leadership and the Center for Urban Education Success.

    University of Rochester’s Online Degrees

    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
  26. Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at Washington University in St. Louis

    Cost of Degree: $60,590
    Expenses: $22,886
    Starting Salary: $87,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Washington University in St. Louis’s Online Degrees

    BS in Integrated Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Humanities
    • Social Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online

    Vanderbilt University

    Nashville , TN
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at Vanderbilt University

    Cost of Degree: $60,348
    Expenses: $24,064
    Starting Salary: $86,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Notre Dame

    Cost of Degree: $60,301
    Expenses: $19,910
    Starting Salary: $98,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Southern California

    Cost of Degree: $64,726
    Expenses: $20,338
    Starting Salary: $88,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Career Outlook for degree at CUNY Graduate Center

    Cost of Degree: $7,410
    Expenses: $28,160
    Starting Salary: $61,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    CUNY Graduate Center’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Disability Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication and Media
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Information Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Health Services Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    MSN in RN to BSN and MSN
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accelerated Nursing Education
    • Accelerated Nursing Informatics
    • Accelerated Nursing Organizational Leadership
    • Accelerated Nursing Education
    • AcceleratedNursing Informatics
    • Accelerated Nursing Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 150
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Queensborough Community College Fast Track
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Nursing
    Degree Concentrations
    • Dual Program with Queensbourough College
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Los Angeles

    Cost of Degree: $13,401
    Expenses: $23,579
    Starting Salary: $73,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    University of Virginia

    Charlottesville , VA
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Virginia

    Cost of Degree: $21,425
    Expenses: $17,790
    Starting Salary: $79,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    Emory University

    Atlanta , GA
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at Emory University

    Cost of Degree: $57,948
    Expenses: $20,866
    Starting Salary: $84,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Washington

    Cost of Degree: $12,242
    Expenses: $19,848
    Starting Salary: $69,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at George Washington University

    Cost of Degree: $60,946
    Expenses: $18,745
    Starting Salary: $82,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    American University

    Washington , DC
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at American University

    Cost of Degree: $53,889
    Expenses: $17,814
    Starting Salary: $67,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Other Rankings

    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

    University of Miami

    Coral Gables , FL
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Miami

    Cost of Degree: $57,194
    Expenses: $21,826
    Starting Salary: $72,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Cost of Degree: $8,989
    Expenses: $16,260
    Starting Salary: $68,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 8 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What 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

    Boston College

    Chestnut Hill , MA
    Other Rankings

    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
    What is California Institute of Integral Studies known for?

    California Institute of Integral Studies’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    California Institute of Integral Studies’s Online Degrees

    BS in Psychology
    • Required Credits: None Reported
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: None Reported

    The New School

    New York , NY
    Other Rankings

    Career Outlook for degree at The New School

    Cost of Degree: $54,371
    Expenses: $30,750
    Starting Salary: $55,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 21 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary

    The New School’s Online Degrees

    BA in Degree Completion
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Degree Completion
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
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Find the Best Research Universities in Your Area of Interest

The best research universities by discipline

Earn a Degree from a Research University Close to Home

A research university is a great choice for students who are interested in a STEM degree.

And as important as a great research university is, if attending a school near home is also important to you, check out our Complete List of Colleges and Universities by State.

Check out the College Admissions Process Guide for additional tips on finding, applying to, and getting into the college of your choice.

See our Resources Guide for much more on studying, starting your job search, and more.

Photo Credit: California Institute of Technology, Beckman Institute. By Canon.vs.nikon, via CC BY-SA 3.0.

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