Best Colleges & Universities Connecticut 2023
Every year, New England area colleges and universities welcome thousands of out-of-state students to their historical campus sites. Since before the founding of this nation, the east coast has upheld a rich tradition of higher education. Connecticut has participated fully in this tradition for just as long. Nearly 200,000 students are drawn to the Nutmeg State for over 100 options of colleges, universities, and seminaries.
Connecticut hosts such prestigious institutions as Yale University (est. 1701) and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy (est. 1876), upholding a longstanding tradition of prestigious academic excellence. Today, it maintains that commitment to education by awarding millions of dollars worth of scholarships, grants, and teacher loan repayments.
As an ambitious, aspirational student, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for within Connecticut’s various public, private, community, and liberal arts institutions, colleges, universities, or seminaries.
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Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Rankings
EDsmart assesses colleges in Connecticut based on data that covers four main areas:
- Cost (average net price)
- Student satisfaction (retention rate)
- Academic quality (graduation rate)
- Salary After Attending (the median earnings of former students who received federal financial aid, at 10 years after entering the school)
All data was gathered from the U.S. Dept of Education websites College Scorecard and College Navigator.
This ranking assesses the affordability and value of top colleges in Connecticut so students can make informed decisions about which college to attend.
Best Accredited Colleges & Universities Connecticut 2023
Four Year Universities
1. Yale University
Score: 100.0
Average Net Price: $15,296
Retention Rate: 82%
Graduation Rate: 98%
Salary After Attending: $88,655
Yale University (est. 1701) is a world-famous private college located in New Haven, Connecticut that has set the standard for post-secondary education and research for over three centuries. As one of the premier academic institutes in the nation, it supports the most exceptional drama and music departments in the country, as well as hundreds of student-led organizations, cultural associations, sports teams, and 13 different schools of study. These include the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, the School of Art, the Divinity School, the School of Engineering & Applied Science, the School of Music, and much more. Yale students pursue a primary major while also exploring additional fields of study, becoming better writers, learning foreign languages, and developing their interpersonal and professional skills in the process.
According to the U.S. News and World Report, Yale ranks #5 in National Universities, #2 in Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects, and #31 in Best Undergraduate Teaching. Its most popular majors include Social Sciences, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, History, Engineering, Mathematics, and Statistics. For especially busy students, Yale’s online courses afford both convenience and flexibility. Across the board, Yale truly leaves nothing to be desired, so if you’re looking for the highest-quality education obtainable in the state of Connecticut, this university is the one for you.
2. Wesleyan University
Score: 96.5
Average Net Price: $28,813
Retention Rate: 92%
Graduation Rate: 90%
Salary After Attending: $68,102
Wesleyan University enrolls its students as a private institution and is located in the Middletown area of Connecticut. The faculty at Wesleyan University is highly reputable, Wesleyan offers top-class academics and technical programs to students across the nation. Graduates who complete their degrees at Wesleyan are world-ready, having been trained in the discipline of their choice. The average tuition and fees for WU are $61,749. But, at an accredited school like Wesleyan, students also qualify for federal loans as well as other forms of financial aid like scholarships and grants.
This private school has a graduation rate of 92%. Wesleyan University, which has received the prestigious New England Commission on Higher Education accreditation, is one of the most sought-after schools on the East Coast. Wesleyan University is dedicated to providing a rigorous education in subjects like the liberal arts, public health, and engineering. With 45 majors and 31 minors available across a variety of fields, you can be sure that Wesleyan will provide you with the skills and flexibility necessary for success in today’s world.
3. Fairfield University
Score: 96.0
Average Net Price: $36,633
Retention Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 80%
Salary After Attending: $86,060
Fairfield University is a private university based in Fairfield, Connecticut that offers both academic and technical degree programs. It helps students reach their professional goals by offering education of the highest quality. The faculty at this institution have designed degree and certification programs that provide coursework that support the expansion of your knowledge. Depending on the program, you may need to submit standardized test scores.
Learners typically spend an average of $50,000 in tuition and fees a year. The accredited school offers programs that qualify earners for federal student aid such as the Pell Grants, which is granted by the US government. The U.S. News and World Report have ranked Fairfield with high regard including ranking them #3 in Most Innovative Schools, #3 in Regional Universities North, and #76 in Nursing. Fairfield University offers 48 undergraduate majors and minors for you to choose from, in addition to 24 interdisciplinary minors. This means you can find a major that corresponds to your specific career objectives.
4. Trinity College
Score: 95.8
Average Net Price: $32,694
Retention Rate: 90%
Graduation Rate: 83%
Salary After Attending: $68,317
Founded in 1823, Trinity College is among the top liberal arts colleges in the country. With 2,300 students on campus, the school focuses on undergraduate studies and offers more than 40 majors. You’ll find popular majors like art history, engineering, and Jewish studies. A 9-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures all students receive the attention they need and have opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions with their peers.
Trinity offers a variety of master’s degree programs such as American studies, English, public policy, and more. Plus, accelerated five-year bachelor’s/master’s programs in neuroscience and history are available too. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Trinity College #46 in National Liberal Arts College, #63 in Best Value Schools, and #193 in Top Performers on Social Mobility.
5. Quinnipiac University
Score: 94.8
Average Net Price: $41,230
Retention Rate: 86%
Graduation Rate: 76%
Salary After Attending: $75,575
Quinnipiac University is a private institution with an enrollment of over 10,000 students. They offer degree programs online and on two campuses in Hamden as well as on campus in North Haven. You can choose from an extensive range of majors and minors, uncommon but rewarding options include; Biomedical Marketing, Behavioral Neuroscience, Dispute Resolution, History and Philosophy of Science, and Global Public Health.
Quinnipiac offers a number of online graduate programs including options such as public relations, instructional design, nursing operational leadership, and business analytics. Quinnipiac University offers work at your convenience in asynchronous classes and has a number of support services to offer, such as advising, tutoring, and financial assistance. North Haven is the location for all things medical and legal, with Quinnipiac’s School of Law and School of Medicine. According to U.S. News and World Report Quinnipiac University is #148 in National Universities.
6. Sacred Heart University
Score: 93.0
Average Net Price: $42,431
Retention Rate: 85%
Graduation Rate: 67%
Salary After Attending: $72,191
Sacred Heart University is one the largest Catholic colleges in the Northeast, enrolling over 8,000 people. In addition to undergraduate and graduate programs that span across 8 different schools, they also offer faculty and staff development in education. The university offers degrees in dozens of fields and categories, including arts and sciences, media, education, and engineering.
SHU owns a number of traditional degrees, but some of their less common ones include actuarial science, forensic accounting, and game design and development. Along with classroom-based curricula and online degree offerings, SHU also has many flexible continuing education programs that are designed to meet the needs of all students from a wide range of backgrounds. Distance learners can pursue master’s degrees in health care/nursing, healthcare informatics, and social work.
7. University of Connecticut – Main Campus
Score: 98.8
Average Net Price: $22,974
Retention Rate: 93%
Graduation Rate: 83%
Salary After Attending: $72,460
The University of Connecticut – Main Campus is a public university that was established in 1881 in the town of Storrs, Connecticut. At this school, students have the freedom to pursue their passions while enjoying all the advantages of college life. With the choice of 36 different student clubs, 22 different sports teams, and 34 fraternities and sororities, the possibilities are virtually endless. Offering over 115 different majors and degree programs, the University of Connecticut is one of the nation’s top public research institutions. According to the U.S. News and World Report, it ranks #63 among National Universities, #23 in Top Public Schools, and #138 in Best Value Schools.
Economics, psychology, speech communication and rhetoric, registered nursing, and biology are among the most popular fields of study. UConn offers a variety of online graduate programs and courses that provide the same high-quality education as their on-campus programs. The graduate degree programs currently offered online include Accounting, Computer Science and Engineering, Educational Psychology, Energy and Environmental Management, Gifted Education and Talent Development, Human Resource Management, Neonatal Nursing, Survey Research, and much more. Through these programs, students are able to develop real-world skills and make the most of their college experience.
8. University of Saint Joseph
Score: 92.8
Average Net Price: $24,569
Retention Rate: 81%
Graduation Rate: 70%
Salary After Attending: $46,100
The University of Saint Joseph is a Catholic college based in West Hartford that provides undergraduate and graduate programs to about 2,500 students. The school provides a range of more than 25 undergraduate majors, including unique options like bioengineering, actuarial science, nutrition and dietetics, prosthetics and orthotics, sport management, and promotion. Students have many options in the online world for acquiring a master’s degree for specific areas of interest.
They can choose from online master’s degrees and certificates in biochemistry, public health, and integrative genomics. Students at all levels have access to a plethora of resources and professionals. There are peer tutors, graduate assistants (who are typically upperclassmen), and even professionals who can help with any difficulties that arise. Saint Joseph is proud to keep a graduation rate of 68%.
9. Central Connecticut State University
Score: 92.5
Average Net Price: $16,723
Retention Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 57%
Salary After Attending: $52,515
Since its founding in 1849, Central Connecticut State University has been committed to furthering education in the greater New Britain, Connecticut region. As a public university, it trains students in the broader liberal arts and sciences tradition while also preparing them within their respective fields. Central Connecticut State University hosts five schools of study, including the Carol A. Ammon College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Education & Professional Studies, the School of Engineering, Science & Technology, and the School of Graduate Studies.
According to the U.S. News and World Report, CCSU ranks #97 among Regional Universities North, #28 in Top Public Schools, and #107 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. The school’s most highly pursued degrees are in the fields of Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Social Sciences, Psychology, Biological and Biomedical Sciences, and Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs. CCSU’s doctoral degree programs include the Doctorate of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP), Educational Leadership: Higher Education Administration Strand (Ed.D.), and Educational Leadership: PK-12 Strand (Ed.D.). Ultimately, if you’re searching for a postsecondary educational experience guaranteed to provide the tools you’ll need to succeed, Central Connecticut State is the perfect choice for you.
10. Western Connecticut State University
Score: 92.3
Average Net Price: $18,166
Retention Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Salary After Attending: $53,289
Western Connecticut State University has operated as a public institution serving the community of Danbury, Connecticut since its founding in 1903. As a communal establishment, it strives to transform students’ lives through top-of-the-line education in a future-focused learning environment. WCSU students have boundless opportunities to participate in internships, hands-on research projects, and collaborative marketing endeavors, all of which prepare them for their futures.
According to the U.S. News and World Report, the university ranks #114 among Regional Universities North, #39 in Top Public Schools, and #85 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. The majority of students graduate with degrees in Police and Criminal Science, Business, Nursing, Psychology, or Communications. For especially busy students, West Connecticut State’s online learning platforms offer 3 different flexible degree programs–1 master’s and 2 doctorate degrees, thereby opening up doors of opportunity for every individual that takes part in what WCSU has to offer.
11. University of Hartford
Score: 92.3
Average Net Price: $28,712
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 59%
Salary After Attending: $58,087
The University of Hartford is a private school that offers more than 100 majors and minors that allow students to graduate with multiple degrees. Students are able to explore everything from communication, economics, finance, and psychology at this institution. An uncommon but highly regarded program Hartford offers is the opportunity to earn your undergraduate and MBA all in four years.
The Hartford Scholars program is a wonderful option for Hartford residents who want to pursue higher education, and also allows them to receive athletic and artistic merit scholarships at the school. University of Hartford has a total undergraduate enrollment of 6,773. They are selective with an acceptance rate of 76%. Hartford offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, has a 59% graduation rate and a 9:1 student-faculty ratio. Tuition and fees for students are $14,516.
12. Eastern Connecticut State University
Score: 92.0
Average Net Price: $19,290
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 60%
Salary After Attending: $49,907
Since its founding in 1889, Eastern Connecticut State University has been providing high-quality education to ambitious students within the Willimantic community and beyond. Today, with over 5,400 attendees in total, ECSU aims to develop well-informed and highly productive members of society. In a variety of settings, students are able to master theoretical approaches to real-world problems, enabling them to reach their personal and professional goals through unconventional means.
According to the U.S. News and World Report, ECSU ranks #85 among Regional Universities North, #24 in Top Public Schools, and #138 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. The most widely pursued degrees are in the fields of Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Psychology, and Social Sciences. For its busier students, ECSU also features distance learning options that include courses in a variety of subjects, such as business, hospitality, computer science, information technology, arts and design, and more.
13. Albertus Magnus College
Score: 91.8
Average Net Price: $26,613
Retention Rate: 70%
Graduation Rate: 68%
Salary After Attending: $55,262
Albertus Magnus College is a large Roman Catholic liberal arts college with more than 1,300 students. The school boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 14-to-1, providing an environment where students can benefit from small classes and quality one-on-one personal attention. Albertus Magnus College has a variety of undergraduate programs to fit your needs. You can choose from bachelor’s in arts and sciences, social sciences, business, or interdisciplinary studies.
In addition, the school offers many masters and doctorate degrees including writing, art therapy, counseling, and public administration. The college has flexible programs for students who need a mix of online and in-person learning for their busy schedules. College degrees can be completed entirely online or you can choose a hybrid option with some time in the classroom.
14. Southern Connecticut State University
Score: 91.3
Average Net Price: $20,830
Retention Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 53%
Salary After Attending: $51,551
Since its founding in 1893 in the city of New Haven, Southern Connecticut State University has empowered its students to achieve their full potential within a safe, healthy learning environment. It offers high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs in both liberal arts and professional fields of study, prioritizing individual success as it seeks to instill a life-long love of learning within its student body. Courses involve hands-on learning, vocational training, and once-in-a-lifetime research opportunities, all led by creative, collaborative instructors.
SCSU hosts over 170 different clubs and organizations, 282 total academic programs, and 17 athletic teams with which students can get involved. Across the board, the university ranks #32 among Top Public Schools, #103 in Regional Universities North, and #86 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, according to the U.S. News and World Report. Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies, Business Administration and Management, Psychology, Registered Nursing, and Public Health are among the school’s most generally pursued majors. SCSU’s online graduate programs afford flexibility and convenience to busy students, who are able to take courses in fields like data analytics, project management, communication, computer applications, and more.
15. University of New Haven
Score: 91.3
Average Net Price: $35,735
Retention Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 63%
Salary After Attending: $52,610
The University of New Haven is a private school in West Haven, Connecticut that serves approximately 7,500 students and borders the Long Island Sound. New Haven University is located in downtown New Haven, offering five outstanding academic schools and colleges with top-rated programs in engineering, forensic science, criminal justice, and marine biology. Its degree programs are available for both undergraduates as well as students starting their graduate studies.
New Haven is home to an impressive variety of online programs, with classes offered on a wide range of topics. Distance learners can enroll in undergraduate and graduate programs in homeland security, criminal justice, environmental engineering, investigations, and public administration. Many online courses allow students to be more flexible with their schedules, enabling them to complete coursework at a convenient time.
16. University of Bridgeport
Score: 88.5
Average Net Price: $25,084
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Salary After Attending: $50,003
The University of Bridgeport is a top-rated private college in Connecticut. Bridgeport prides itself on creating an environment that’s ideal for fostering education. UB has a total enrollment of 3,500 students. The school offers degrees in more than 80 different fields of study, from bachelors to doctorate-level degrees. There are also several fully online and flexible options for those looking for the flexibility that comes with the format of online coursework.
Programs offered at the University of Bridgeport include analytics and systems, computer science, organizational leadership and change, human resource administration, and social sciences. UB is a national leader in applying innovative financial aid incentives to assist students with their college education. They have several different types of merit scholarships that are awarded based on the student’s needs and circumstances. As a student, you will benefit from having access to a full range of resources, including advising, counseling, and career placement.
17. Mitchell College
Score: 85.8
Average Net Price: $24,609
Retention Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 42%
Salary After Attending: $36,391
Mitchell College Connecticut is a private college in New London, Connecticut that offers undergraduate and graduates degrees. Mitchell College Connecticut provides a variety of programs, including business, education, arts, sciences, and nursing. The school also has a strong focus on community service and social justice. Mitchell College is committed to providing its students with the knowledge they need to succeed in the future.
Mitchell College is a small institution with a total enrollment of 508 students and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14 to 1. Smaller class sizes are one of Mitchell College’s more desirable features because they guarantee each student quality time with professors. The college was ranked #16 in Top Performers on Social Mobility and tied in Regional Colleges North according to the 2022 edition of U.S. News and World Report.
18. Post University
Score: 82.5
Average Net Price: $16,529
Retention Rate: 53%
Graduation Rate: 18%
Salary After Attending: $36,121
Post University is a private, for-profit university based out of Waterbury, Connecticut. They make it easy for students to attend by accepting 97% of applicants and graduating 17% of students. They provide affordable education to people from all walks of life and backgrounds. Post offers learners access to a plethora of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as certificate tracks.
They have been around for over 100 years and have an extensive library collection, centers of excellence, and organizations for student involvement. Undergraduate students can study in areas like the arts and sciences, business, education, and public service. For students looking to advance their knowledge by earning their graduate degree, Post offers programs in the fields of business, education, health management, nursing, and public service.
Two Year Colleges
1. Northwestern Connecticut Community College
Score: 91.0
Average Net Price: $6,205
Retention Rate: 61%
Graduation Rate: 25%
Salary After Attending: $39,903
Founded in 1965 in the town of Winsted, Connecticut, Northwestern Connecticut Community College is a public postsecondary educational institution that has devoted itself to the facilitation of access to affordable, high-quality education. Today, the school offers degrees and certificates up to the associate’s level in over 55 different fields of study. The most widely pursued degrees and certificates focus on the fields of Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing, and Medical Assistance.
Northwestern Connecticut features flexible options for students with extraneous responsibilities in the form of its online and hybrid courses, which are designed to accommodate even the busiest of schedules. These options provide ease and convenience for students who value their education while still endeavoring to balance the duties of everyday life. All in all, Northwestern Connecticut Community College’s mission is to inspire a lifelong love of learning within its students by opening the doors of opportunity to high-quality education and a supportive academic environment.
Further Reading: Cheap Online Colleges Ranking
2. Norwalk Community College
Score: 89.0
Average Net Price: $6,901
Retention Rate: 65%
Graduation Rate: 23%
Salary After Attending: $37,246
Since its founding in 1961, Norwalk Community College has been opening up the doors of opportunity to students from all walks of life through “open dialogue, multicultural awareness, and lifelong learning.” The school grants associate’s degrees designed to be transferred to larger postsecondary institutions for further advancement. Students have 59 different majors to choose from, the most popular fields being Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing, and Business. Norwalk also offers online and hybrid courses, affording the highest level of convenience and flexibility to diligent students with proper time management and organizational skills.
As an institution, NCC strives to create an environment where students can achieve their full potential and eventually move on to bettering society and contributing to the workforce. The school holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a school that will prioritize your needs and set you on the path to success, Norwalk is an excellent prospect.
3. Naugatuck Valley Community College
Score: 88.8
Average Net Price: $7,162
Retention Rate: 57%
Graduation Rate: 24%
Salary After Attending: $39,277
Naugatuck Valley Community College was established as a public institution of postsecondary education in the year 1962. Today, it operates out of two separate campuses in Waterbury and Danbury, Connecticut. Though the school’s highest available degree level is an associate’s, it’s committed to fostering individual students’ passions and encouraging lifelong pursuits. Students have a selection of approximately 50 different areas of study, the most popular being within the fields of Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Health Professions and Related Programs, and Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services.
For students with extraneous responsibilities, NVCC provides a variety of comprehensive distance learning options that contribute toward college degrees, skill-building courses, and field-specific certifications. These allow students the independence to meet their goals and pursue their dreams from the comfort and ease of their own homes. All in all, Naugatuck is the place to be if you’re seeking out an institution that prioritizes your needs and preferences.
4. Manchester Community College
Score: 87.5
Average Net Price: $7,471
Retention Rate: 53%
Graduation Rate: 22%
Salary After Attending: $39,762
Since its founding in 1963, Manchester Community College has been granting associate’s degrees in over 40 different fields of specialization, the most popular being within the realms of Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, and Health Professions and Related Programs.
Classes are held on days, evenings, weekends, and online, affording the highest level of convenience and flexibility to students from all walks of life. Online courses cover fields such as aviation science, philosophy, photography, history, German, criminal justice, civil engineering technology, and many more. Manchester aims to provide students with top-of-the-line academic preparation, ensuring their individual success within ever-evolving career fields or bachelor’s degree programs at universities. All in all, MCC is a prime option for any Connecticut resident looking to obtain a high-quality, fully-comprehensive postsecondary education.
5. Three Rivers Community College
Score: 87.0
Average Net Price: $6,644
Retention Rate: 55%
Graduation Rate: 21%
Salary After Attending: $37,203
Three Rivers Community College is a public postsecondary educational institution that was founded in 1992 in the town of Norwich, Connecticut. Its mission is to inspire, prepare, and empower students “to succeed through open access to high-quality learning opportunities.” TRCC grants certificates and degrees up to the associate’s level, allowing students to choose from between 58 different specialties. The most widely chosen degrees are in fields like Liberal Arts and Humanities, Nursing, and Accounting Technician and Bookkeeping.
Three Rivers believes that students have individual needs when it comes to education. Therefore, it aims to provide personalized plans to better suit those individual needs. The school’s two fully online degrees and multiple online and hybrid courses illustrate this. If you’re an especially busy student looking to earn an Associate’s in General Studies or a certificate in Library Technology online, TRCC is the place for you.
6. Gateway Community College
Score: 87.0
Average Net Price: $7,201
Retention Rate: 53%
Graduation Rate: 21%
Salary After Attending: $39,520
Gateway Community College is a public institution of postsecondary education that was founded in New Haven, Connecticut in 1992. Students can obtain certifications and degrees up to the associate’s level, choosing from a range of 80 different associate degrees, a plethora of certificates and continuing education courses. The most widely pursued majors are in the fields of Health Professions and Related Programs, Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, and Physical Sciences.
Gateway shows its commitment to providing flexible and affordable education to students everywhere through its convenient online learning platform. GCC distance learners receive high-quality education and unmatched virtual support. For students who wish to continue their education beyond an associate’s degree, credits can be easily transferred to a four-year college or career-track program. All in all, Gateway serves as a reputable, top-tier institution among higher education providers within the state of Connecticut.
7. Asnuntuck Community College
Score: 86.0
Average Net Price: $7,795
Retention Rate: 47%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $39,283
In the town of Enfield, Connecticut, Asnuntuck Community College has been dedicated to affording high-quality education in an accessible, affordable, and nurturing environment since its founding in 1969. The school offers associate’s degrees, transferrable degrees, and certificate programs, and students can choose one of 50 different fields in which to earn their associate’s or certification. Most ACC students elect to earn their degrees in Machine and Metal Working, Liberal Arts and Humanities, and Welding Engineering Technician.
Asnuntuck takes the #1 place among Best Community Colleges in Connecticut, according to Niche.com. ACC offers online courses in accounting, business, biology, humanities, law, human services, and much more. All in all, if you’re seeking an institution that will prioritize your needs and success, Asnuntuck Community College is the school for you.
8. Middlesex Community College
Score: 85.3
Average Net Price: $3,890
Retention Rate: 51%
Graduation Rate: 22%
Salary After Attending: $30,216
Middlesex Community College is a public postsecondary educational institution that was founded in Middletown, Connecticut in 1966. Students can pursue associate’s degrees and certificates across a vast range of different fields of specialization. The school holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education.
MCC also features online courses and career training programs in the fields of Arts and Design, Business, Computer Applications, Computer Science, Construction and Trades, Health and Fitness, Hospitality, Information Technology, Language, Legal, and Writing. These courses are fully-comprehensive and afford long-term benefits. All in all, Middlesex Community College is a top-of-the-line institution through which to earn your associate’s degree and pursue your goals.
9. Housatonic Community College
Score: 85.3
Average Net Price: $6,116
Retention Rate: 56%
Graduation Rate: 17%
Salary After Attending: $33,021
Since its founding in 1967, Housatonic Community College has operated as a public institution serving the community of its local Bridgeport, Connecticut, and beyond. Aspiring students have a variety of 59 different associate’s degree programs to choose from, a few of which include the Associate in Fine Arts: Art, Associate in Human Services, Associate in Criminal Justice, Associate in Surgical Technology, and much more.
Housatonic assists local Bridgeport businesses in the process of individualized employee training, as well. The school’s goal is to prepare students to take one of three paths; transfer credits and earn a bachelor’s degree, enter the workforce upon receiving an associate’s degree, or simply maintain a lifelong love of learning while continuing into the future. That’s why, through its CSCU Pathways initiative, it also offers a wide variety of transfer associate’s degrees. All in all, Housatonic aims to provide access to top-tier education while granting students the skills necessary to meet the demands of an ever-evolving workforce.
10. Tunxis Community College
Score: 84.8
Average Net Price: $7,711
Retention Rate: 56%
Graduation Rate: 20%
Salary After Attending: $33,731
Since 1969, Tunxis Community College has been committed to serving its surrounding community of Farmington, Connecticut, and beyond. Although the highest degree students can obtain at this school is an associate’s degree, TCC prioritizes individual student advancement, whether that be directly into the workforce, on to higher-level degrees, or a more personalized life path. Students choose from any of Tunxis wide variety of different fields of study. With associate’s degrees in Art Studies, Engineering Science, Technology and Engineering Education, Economics, and much more, as well as certificate programs in Energy Management, Paralegal Studies, Advanced Manufacturing, Data Science, and more, the TCC possibilities are virtually endless.
Tunxis affords students the ease of receiving an education online, as well. Remote students can pursue associate’s degrees in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Computer Programming, General Studies, and more. Tunxis also offers an online Business Administration certificate, as well. If you prefer a digital learning environment, are unable to commute to attend on-campus courses, or are too busy to participate in the traditional education format, there’s a good chance that this college is right for you.
11. Capital Community College
Score: 83.5
Average Net Price: $10,392
Retention Rate: 53%
Graduation Rate: 20%
Salary After Attending: $34,530
Capital Community College is committed to providing public, community-centered higher education to the diverse residents of Hartford, Connecticut. Students at CCC can choose over 50 different fields of study in which to earn their associate’s degrees, a few of which include Computer Networking A.S., Theater Arts A.A., Management A.S., Criminal Justice A.S., and much more. Additionally, Capital offers over 100 online courses for convenience and flexibility.
Capital Community College’s online skill-building programs cover the fields of Accounting and Finance, Business, College Readiness, Computer Applications, Design and Composition, Healthcare and Medical, Language and Arts, Law and Legal, Personal Development, Teaching and Education, Technology, and Writing and Publishing. These courses are intended to be informative, supportive, fun, and convenient for Capital’s remote learners. All in all, Capital is a top-of-the-line institution that will offer you every opportunity and support you along the road to long-term success.
12. Quinebaug Valley Community College
Score: 82.0
Average Net Price: $8,758
Retention Rate: 51%
Graduation Rate: 20%
Salary After Attending: $31,120
Quinebaug Valley Community College is a public postsecondary institution that was founded in 1971 in Danielson, Connecticut. With associate’s degrees in over 40 different fields of specialization to choose from, students are afforded the highest-quality chance at advancement and long-term career success. Quinebaug offers virtual courses in integrated technology, accounting, veterinary assistance, grant writing, medical and health sciences, and much more.
Ultimately, QVCC seeks to help students meet their educational and professional goals. At this college, not only will you have the opportunity to earn your associate’s degree, but also to transfer to a four-year college on your own time and advance toward a successful future as it suits you.
Honorable Mention
Goodwin College
Goodwin College is a private college that has prioritized the installation of career-focused ambition within its students for over 20 years. located in East Hartford, Connecticut. According to Niche.com, it earned an overall grade rating of ‘B-‘ for academics, value, and diversity. The school offers a wide range of majors in fields like dental hygiene, criminal justice, medical assisting, welding, public health, nursing, and much more.
Goodwin also offers a plethora of virtual courses designed for those with extraneous responsibilities who wish to continue their education on their own time. Students are provided high-quality instruction with the added benefit of flexibility in terms of when and where they complete course material. Goodwin’s online associate’s degree is in general studies, but the bachelor’s degree options include Business Administration, RN-to-BSN, Professional Studies, and Public Health. Additionally, this college features exceptional online master’s programs in Nursing, Education, MSN, APRN-FNP, Public Health, and Organizational Leadership.
