Best Colleges & Universities in New Mexico
New Mexico has a rich history that began long before it joined the Union in 1912. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, cliff dwellings by the Gila River, and many a Native American tale can attest to that. It earned its nickname of “The Land of Enchantment” for its uniquely enchanting desert rock formations and landscapes. Enjoying those enchanting features can now accompany a college education of the highest caliber.
The state boasts strong revolutionary scientific research at its colleges. It is home to the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. Demand for skills in these fields continues to grow as the world turns to science and technology to help our lives be better and for solutions to the world’s problems. Also, because of the high Native American Population, New Mexico has a few colleges that are specifically tailored to the needs of the Native American Students.
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.Even with the top-notch education options offered, tuition costs remain low compared to the rest of the nation. The cost of living in New Mexico is also on the lower end of the spectrum. On top of all this, the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education offers a program called the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). The goal of this program is to help nonresident students graduate with little to no debt. It offers nonresident tuition rates to students in 16 western states, including New Mexico.
If you’re ready to experience the large open sky and enchanting landscapes to go along with your college experience, New Mexico is a strong candidate in your search for postsecondary education.
Rankings
EDsmart assesses colleges in New Mexico based on data that covers four main areas:
- Cost (average net price)
- Academic quality (graduation rate)
- Student satisfaction (retention 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 aims to help students assess the affordability and value of top colleges in New Mexico so they can make informed decisions about which college to attend.
Best Accredited Colleges in New Mexico for 2023
Four Year Universities
1. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology
Score: 100.0
Average Net Price: $14,836
Retention Rate: 79%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Salary After Attending: $64,650
New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology also known as New Mexico Tech is an institution that provides a wide range of services, with an emphasis on science, engineering, and mathematics. Their involved faculty provide a diverse education to students, preparing them for the future in rigorous programs. Faculty collaborate with experts around the world to ensure students are equipped with the skills they need to thrive in their future careers. The U.S. News and World Report ranked New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology #6 in Top Public Schools, #20 in Regional Universities West, and #112 in Top Performers on Social Mobility. Niche.com gave it a grade of B+ and ranked the school #1 in Best Colleges in New Mexico.
New Mexico Tech is a Science, Engineering, and Research University with a focus on STEM. It is located in Socorro, New Mexico and has been ranked as one of the top 50 universities in the world for engineering. The New Mexico Techs academics are committed to providing the best possible education for their students. They are also committed to advancing the frontiers of knowledge through scientific research. The mission of New Mexico Tech is to provide an educational environment that fosters the development of innovative new technologies and the knowledge base to support their use. New Mexico Tech offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. A few of their popular undergraduate subjects include biomedical sciences, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and physics.
2. University of New Mexico-Main Campus
Score: 99.0
Average Net Price: $14,424
Retention Rate: 77%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Salary After Attending: $41,674
The University of New Mexico is the premier provider of higher education and healthcare in the state of New Mexico. They have been promoting discoveries, generating intellectual content, and serving the community by building an educated, healthy, and economically thriving society. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of New Mexico #99 in Top Public Schools, #196 in National Universities, and #43 in Nursing. Niche.com gave the university a ranking of #1 in Most Diverse Colleges in New Mexico.
The University of New Mexico is a highly respected institution at the forefront of education and innovation in the world. They offer a range of academic programs through twelve Colleges and Schools, including Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Education, Law and Criminology, Fine Arts, Continuing Education for Adults, and Outreach Education for Youth. When it comes to academics, there are many things to choose from – over 215 degree and certificate programs available, including undergraduate (94), masters (71), and multiple doctoral level ones too.
3. New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Score: 98.4
Average Net Price: $10,428
Retention Rate: 75%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Salary After Attending: $36,683
New Mexico State University’s Main Campus (NMSU) sits in the suburb, Las Cruces, New Mexico. It’s a midsize 4-year public college with housing and a student population of 14,289 students.
NMSU offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctor’s degrees as well as post-graduate certificates.
The student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1, which is an advantage for its students. A wide assortment of graduate and undergraduate degrees are available. Degrees in agriculture, mathematics, biomedical science, homeland security, philosophy, history, education, psychology, engineering, English, the arts, and public administration are offered at UNM.
The university supports active service members and veteran students. It’s also a recognized member of Service members Opportunity Colleges (SOC). Students enjoy study abroad opportunities, a satellite learning center, and five campuses.
NMSU’s mission is to serve the state’s needs. Its focus is on inquiry, diversity, social mobility, and inclusion.
4. St. John’s College – Santa Fe
Score: 98.2
Average Net Price: $24,672
Retention Rate: 71%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Salary After Attending: $43,203
St. John’s distinctive liberal arts curriculum and teaching methods have made it a highly valued college here in the States. St. Johns College is strong in its commitment to collaborative inquiry, the study of original texts, and other highly creative ideas. Students at St. Johns College are surrounded by a vibrant community of other students who are also passionate about these topics which are great for class discussions and debates. The U.S. News and World Report ranked St. John’s College in Santa Fe #24 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, #26 in Most Innovative Schools, and #87 in Best Value Schools.
All classes at St. John’s College are small, and intimate, and offer students the opportunity to be active participants in their own education by being actively engaged in the learning process. St. John’s College offers a great undergraduate program (Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts). The classes are focused on liberal arts, and you’ll gain insights through intensive reading and discussion. Their Liberal Arts undergraduate program is a truly world-class, comprehensive education that has been praised as one of the most rigorous undergraduate programs in the country. The Santa Fe campus offers an accelerated Master’s program in Liberal Arts. To meet the needs of attendees who can’t commit to a full year of study, they also offer a 3-semester program in Eastern Classics.
5. New Mexico Highlands University
Score: 96.0
Average Net Price: $9,518
Retention Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 39%
Salary After Attending: $36,696
New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU) is located in the rural town of Las Vegas, New Mexico. It also has branches in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Roswell, and Farmington. NMHU is a 4-year public college with on-campus housing. It hosts a student population of 3,037 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14 to 1, so it’s should be easy to get a professor’s attention here.
NMHU offers undergraduate and graduate certificates. Students can pursue Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees. Students can choose degrees or certificates in 5 distinct fields of study. Those programs include Social Work, Business, Media, Technology, Art, Science, Nursing, and Education.
This college was founded in 1893. Check out the movies “Red Dawn” and “Vampires” to see the campus of NMHU on the big screen. NMHU also has a robust athletics program. Students enjoy track, soccer, baseball, football, volleyball, and wrestling.
NMHU’s mission is to provide comprehensive education to its local and global communities. It strives to foster critical thinking and research skills.
6. University of the Southwest
Score: 96.0
Average Net Price: $17,336
Retention Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 30%
Salary After Attending: $43,241
The University of the Southwest has been a place of higher learning for many decades. Its goal is to provide a Christ-centered education that meets various career goals. From academic curricula to campus life programming and student activities, the University of the Southwest strives to be an excellent educational institution where freedom of thought and expression is honored. The University encourages students to examine their faith in light of their daily interactions on campus. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of the Southwest #62 in Top Performers on Social Mobility.
At the University of the Southwest, they are committed to developing your academic skills, spiritual side, and personal goals. You’ll see growth on and off-campus. The University of the Southwest has a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs (over 50) where you’ll find a program that’s tailored to your needs. Classes are taught by qualified professors who have your success in mind. At the University of the Southwest, students are instructed by professors who maintain Christ-centered values and an environment where students can live and work cooperatively. Students will learn to value multiple cultures throughout their educational journey so they can be more respectable members of society. The university undergraduate program has three colleges to study College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, and the College of Education.
7. Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Score: 95.4
Average Net Price: $8,961
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 44%
Salary After Attending: $33,395
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus (ENMU) is located in the remote town of Portales, New Mexico. It’s a 4-year public university with on-campus housing. This school has a population of 6,005 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1, which creates competition for a professor’s attention.
ENMU offers Certificates, Bachelor’s degrees, Postbaccalaureate Certificates as well as Master’s degrees. It issues teacher certifications and career counseling. Distance education opportunities, AP courses, remedial services, and job placement services are available. Daycare is also made available to students.
This university regionally ranks as a Best Colleges Tier 2. ENMU ranks #1 for having the most “affordable online Bachelor’s degree programs in management, finance, engineering, accounting, business, sociology, aviation and hospitality management and the most affordable online Master’s degree program in English,” according to ENMU.
Its mission is to create a rich educational experience by combining its engaging environment with technology.
8. Brookline College-Albuquerque
Score: 94.4
Average Net Price: $35,183
Retention Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 64%
Salary After Attending: $24,653
Brookline College is an independent, accredited institution dedicated to providing quality academic guidance to its diverse student body. They’re committed to making sure your education covers everything you need to know for the working world, whether that be in the industry, public service, or medical support. We want to equip you with all the skills and knowledge you’ll need for a successful career.
Brookline is the right choice for a number of reasons. For starters, their courses are tailored for the modern age so that you get all the necessary skills for your career, without having to pause your life and devote four or more years to getting that degree. The faculty and staff at Brookline College are committed to providing you with the best possible learning experience. They are experienced professionals who will help guide you every step of the way. Their expertise will help you to reach your academic goals, as well as understand the world beyond academia. The areas of study include nursing, healthcare, and business. Students can earn diplomas, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in healthcare. For business, you can graduate with your Master in Public Administration. All their degrees are designed for you to graduate and immediately excel in your chosen career.
9. Western New Mexico University
Score: 93.0
Average Net Price: $13,679
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 32%
Salary After Attending: $33,938
Western New Mexico University (WNMU) is located in the remote town of Silver City, New Mexico. The 4-year public college has student housing. It hosts a student population of 3,248 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15 to 1, which makes getting an instructor’s attention easy.
WNMU offers certificates that take less than a year or two to complete. It also offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees. Students major in subjects such as Forest Wildlife Law Enforcement, Accounting, Art, Construction, Coaching, Digital Forensics, Gerontology, Geology, Social Science, Welding Technology, and Zoology.
WNMU’s mission is to engage and empower learners within a caring community. It also aspires to be the premier teaching university in the region.
10. Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development
Score: 89.2
Average Net Price: $13,504
Retention Rate: 49%
Graduation Rate: 39%
Salary After Attending: $26,448
Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development (IAIA), located in the rural town of Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a 4-year public college with student housing. A student population of 589 keeps the student-to-faculty ratio low. The student-to-faculty ratio is 8 to 1, so getting a professor’s attention is extremely easy.
After being founded in 1962, it was accredited in 2001 to offer 4-year degrees. A 2-year MFA in Creative Writing was also added in 2013. Today the college has programs in Art History, Business, Cinematic Arts, Creative Writing, Indigenous Studies, Museum Studies, Performing Arts, and Studio Arts.
AIAI’s mission is to empower creativity and leadership in Native Arts and culture. Students from over 96 tribes are represented at the institute.
Two Year Colleges
1. New Mexico Military Institute
Score: 97.8
Average Net Price: $4,541
Retention Rate: 49%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $47,392
New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) is located in the remote town of Roswell, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college with housing and a student population of 412 people.
NMMI is the only state-supported co-educational military boarding school offering a 4-year college preparation program. The student-to-faculty ratio is an amazing 16 to 1. Liberal Arts and Sciences students get lots of one-on-one attention.
This college’s core values include a commitment to duty, honor, and achievement. Cadets live by an honor code as they enjoy a safe and secure campus with well-qualified staff.
Leadership opportunities are ensured by the college’s Army ROTC program.
NMMI is known as “The West Point of the West” as it serves an international student population. New cadets are admitted to NMMI as “RATs,” which stands for “Recruit-At-Training. All “RAT” students partake in gaining self-discipline, time management, and leadership skills. The payoff for attending is character development and the skills required to go on to a 4-year college.
2. Central New Mexico Community College
Score: 97.4
Average Net Price: $3,322
Retention Rate: 64%
Graduation Rate: 26%
Salary After Attending: $33,975
Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) is located in the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college without a housing option. The undergraduate population is 23,553 students.
CNM offers certificates and Associate degrees in subjects such as Agriculture, Agriculture Operations, Architecture, Biomedical Science, Business, Information Science, and Construction. Career preparation programs include Early Childhood Education, Special Education, and Teaching Assistant certification. Medical and engineering-related training programs are also available.
This college accepts 100% of those who apply to it. Its main campus borders the historic Nob Hill area. Its Wellness Center features a great gym for all students, faculty, and staff members.
The student-to-faculty ratio is 23 to 1, which means its classrooms can get busy. CNM is New Mexico’s largest community college.
The community college supports Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC students. It offers a Yellow Ribbon Program for students to earn credit from military training.
CNM’s mission is to be at the forefront of cutting-edge education and training. It strives to build a workforce that spurs economic development in New Mexico.
3. New Mexico State University-Dona Ana
Score: 97.0
Average Net Price: $5,292
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 23%
Salary After Attending: $36,683
New Mexico State University-Dona Ana (NMSU) is located in the rural town of Las Cruces, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college without housing. It has a student population of 7,876 undergraduates. The student-to-faculty ratio is 22 to 1.
NMSU is the community college branch of New Mexico State University. It offers students Associate degrees and certificates.
This college holds 11 specialized accreditation in the following subject areas: dentistry, design, nursing, business, respiratory care, allied health education, fire service, radiologist technology, automotive, diagnostic medical sonography, and construction.
The college’s core values are offering lifelong learning opportunities and fostering academic honesty. Students are expected to assume an active role in their learning process. Fiscal management and personal responsibility are a few of the values held by its emerging leaders.
NMSU has its own Veterans Services Office to assist veterans and eligible dependents. This office enables students to take advantage of the Montgomery GI Bill Education Benefits Program.
4. Mesalands Community College
Score: 95.4
Average Net Price: $7,442
Retention Rate: 65%
Graduation Rate: 41%
Salary After Attending: $27,045
Mesalands Community College is located in the remote town of Tucumcari, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college with housing.
The undergraduate population is 1,068 students. Its student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to 1, which makes MCC a busy but small school.
MCC offers certificates and Associate degrees in subjects such as Equestrian Studies, Business Marketing, Computer Science, and Building Construction Technology. Career preparation programs include Electromechanical and Health-related specialties. Its graduates become emergency care attendants, nursing assistants, automotive mechanics, and phlebotomists. Courses in Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration are offered, too.
This college offers online classes in Health, Art, English, Physical Education, and Music. MCC also offers credits for military training. So veterans and service members are welcome.
MCC’s mission is to foster personal growth, and leadership and enhance lifelong learning opportunities. It seeks to give students a high level of social responsibility and a general core base of knowledge.
5. Santa Fe Community College
Score: 94.6
Average Net Price: $6,663
Retention Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 25%
Salary After Attending: $36,034
Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) is located in the small suburb of Santa Fe, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public school that doesn’t offer student housing. This school has a population of 4,207 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 13 to 1, which results in low competition for a professor’s attention.
SFCC offers certificates that take less than two years to complete. The college’s programs include Agriculture, Architecture, Cultural Studies, Biomedical Science, Business Management, Computer and Information Sciences, Construction, Education, and American Sign Language. Degrees in health professions such as Athletic Trainer, Dental Laboratory Technology, Home Health, Vocational Nursing, and Medical Assistant are also available. Associate’s degrees in Criminal Justice, Fire Science, Dental Assisting, and Nursing are also available.
This community college is focused on successful four-year transfers. Its mission is to empower students and strengthen the community.
6. University of New Mexico-Gallup Campus
Score: 94.4
Average Net Price: $7,349
Retention Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 16%
Salary After Attending: $41,674
University of New Mexico-Gallup Campus (UNM) is located in the rural town of Gallup, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college. Student housing is not available. This school has a student population of 2,190 undergraduates. The student-to-faculty ratio is 27 to 1, which makes it an ideal setting for independent learners.
UNM offers distance education programs to undergraduate students. Advanced Placement (AP), weekend and evening courses are available as well.
Some of the most popular majors at this college include Digital Imaging and Design, Early Childhood Education, and 7 health-related programs. Other programs offered are Corrections, Safety Studies, Paralegal, Business Management, Psychology, Social Science, and Art.
Its mission is to prepare students to achieve their educational and professional goals.
7. Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Campus
Score: 94.2
Average Net Price: $5,302
Retention Rate: 50%
Graduation Rate: 35%
Salary After Attending: $33,395
Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell Campus (ENMU) is located in the remote town of Roswell, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college with on-campus housing.
The undergraduate population is 2,427 students. Its student-to-faculty ratio is 22 to 1, which makes ENMU a bustling small school.
ENMU offers teacher certification, distance education, and weekend undergraduate programs. A wide variety of health professional programs are available. Available career paths include blood bank technology specialist, medical record technology, clinical assistant, registered nursing, addiction counseling, and veterinary technician. Opportunities to study aircraft maintenance, air traffic control, professional cooking, and welding technology are available. This college has a visual arts department where students study film production and graphic design.
ENMU offers its students credit for life experiences and on-campus daycare. The university’s military students enjoy tuition waivers, access to scholarships, and tuition forgiveness.
The university’s mission is to collaborate within the ENMU system. It does so by partnering with businesses, industries, and neighboring educational institutions.
8. New Mexico State University-Grants
Score: 94.0
Average Net Price: $5,721
Retention Rate: 56%
Graduation Rate: 19%
Salary After Attending: $36,683
New Mexico State University-Grants (NMSU) is located in the remote town of Ranchos de Taos, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public community college with no campus housing. This school has a student population of 996 undergraduates. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17 to 1, which makes the school busy but welcoming.
UNM offers distance education classes, AP courses, remedial services, and career counseling. Daycare on campus is also made available to students.
Students attend this school to study Animation, Interactive Technology, Video Graphics, and Special Effects. A Game and Interactive Media Design program are also available. Other vocational training options offered by UNM include Computer Repair Technology and Automotive Mechanics. Associate degrees in Liberal Arts and Ethnic Studies are available, too.
Its mission is to embrace innovation so that it creates a sustainable community.
9. Clovis Community College
Score: 93.8
Average Net Price: $5,411
Retention Rate: 63%
Graduation Rate: 21%
Salary After Attending: $27,732
Clovis Community College is located in the remote town of Clovis, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college that doesn’t offer student housing.
The undergraduate population is 3,107 students. Its student-to-faculty ratio is 18 to 1, which makes CCC a busy yet small school.
CCC offers certificates and Associate degrees in subjects such as Criminal Justice, Fire Science, Paralegal, and General Studies. Career preparation programs include programs for aspiring heating, air conditioning, and ventilation technicians. Opportunities to study electronics and automobile technology are available. Future EMTs, medical records employees, phlebotomists, and radiologist assistants also study at CCC. BestColleges ranked CCC in the top 25 online associate degrees for Childhood Education.
Other programs offered by CCC include degree and certificate programs in Behavioral Science, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, and Criminal Justice.
CCC facilitates earning credits for military training. It has a special tuition policy for veterans, too. A Military Spouse Scholarship is also available for those in financial need.
The college’s mission is to ignite economic vitality in the communities it serves.
10. University of New Mexico-Valencia County Campus
Score: 93.6
Average Net Price: $8,608
Retention Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 16%
Salary After Attending: $41,674
University of New Mexico-Valencia County Campus (UNM) is located in the rural town of Los Lunas, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college without student housing.
The undergraduate population is 2,041 students. Its student-to-faculty ratio is 31 to 1, which makes this UNM campus ideal for independent learners.
It’s classified as an associate’s degree college and non-traditional school.
UNM’s Valencia Campus offers programs in Business, Management, Marketing, and Business Administration. Animation, Crafts, Folk Art, Digital Arts, Interactive Technology, and Video Technology programs are also offered. Some students study Building Construction or Management, Early Childhood Education, Health, or Engineering.
UNM’s mission is to provide students with a comprehensive education. It accomplishes that mission by providing students with career counseling and a wide range of vocational programs. Those programs are designed to improve the economic conditions of the community.
11. Navajo Technical University
Score: 93.2
Average Net Price: $7,982
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 30%
Salary After Attending: $23,342
Navajo Technical University (NTU) is located in the remote rural town of Crownpoint, New Mexico. It’s a 4-year public college with student housing. This school has a population of 1600 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12 to 1, which makes it an intimate setting for learning.
NTU offers certificates that take less than a year to complete. It also offers Associate’s, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees in over 20 subject areas. Students can take courses in Visual Arts, Transportation and Materials, Social Sciences, Public Administration, Precision Production (Welding), Culinary Arts, Liberal Arts, the Humanities, Health, Foreign Languages, Literature, Engineering, Construction Trades, Education, Biological and Biomedical Science, Business Management and Marketing, and Architecture.
NTU’s mission is to help students prepare for certificates, associate, baccalaureate, and graduate degrees. It is committed to hands-on learning and sustainable economic development.
12. San Juan College
Score: 92.8
Average Net Price: $5,705
Retention Rate: 55%
Graduation Rate: 29%
Salary After Attending: $32,286
San Juan College is located in the small town of Farmington, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college that doesn’t offer housing for students. The undergraduate population is 6,679 students.
SJC offers certificates and Associate degrees in subjects such as Agriculture Operations, Biomedical Science, Business Management, Computer Science, and Construction. Career preparation programs include Elementary Education and Teaching, Secondary Education, and Special Education. Drafting, Electronic Engineering, and a wide array of health-related certification programs are also available. Courses in Physical Science, Social Work, and Welding Technology are offered, too.
This college enables students to earn Associate degrees online in 7 areas of study: Veterinary Technology, Physical Therapy Assistant, Health Information Technology, Occupational Safety, Psychology, Business Administration, and Liberal Arts.
The student-to-faculty ratio is 15 to 1, which makes SJC an ideal school for getting one-on-one attention. SJC’s mission is to facilitate a smooth transition to four-year institutions. It also seeks to partner with businesses and industry to empower individuals, making it one of the best schools in New Mexico.
13. New Mexico State University-Carlsbad
Score: 92.4
Average Net Price: $7,274
Retention Rate: 57%
Graduation Rate: 16%
Salary After Attending: $36,683
New Mexico State University-Carlsbad (NMSU) is located in Carlsbad, New Mexico. It is a 2-year public college and a branch of the NMSU’s main campus in Las Cruces. It hosts a student population of 1,952 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 19 to 1, so it’s a busy school.
NMSU offers certificates that take less than a year or two to complete. It also offers Associate’s degrees in programs such as Health Professions, General Studies, Humanities, and Education. Students can choose degrees or certificates in 16 distinct fields of study.
This college was founded in 1950. It provides Adult Basic Education services. It also hosts the region’s Small Business Development Center. This community college was the only one to ever be consecutively designated a top school by Quality New Mexico.
NMSU’s mission is to provide students with the necessary resources for becoming well-trained. It’s dedicated to student success through discovery.
14. New Mexico State University-Alamogordo
Score: 92.4
Average Net Price: $6,766
Retention Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 18%
Salary After Attending: $36,683
New Mexico State University-Alamogordo, located in the rural town of Alamogordo, New Mexico, is, a 2-year public college that is part of the NMSU system. A student population of 1,710 keeps this campus well-populated which allows for personalized support in all areas.
The student-to-faculty ratio is 16 to 1, so getting a professor’s attention is not difficult. Students can earn Associate degrees in 10 programs, Associate of Applied Science degrees in 10 programs, and workforce-ready Certificates in 12 programs. Programs include Allied Health, Medical Assistant, Emergency Medical Services, Graphic Design, General Engineering, Information Technology, Criminal Justice, Automotive Technology, Early Childhood Education, and Social work. Transfer degree programs include the Associate of Arts and the Associate of Science.
NMSU Alamogordo’s mission is to provide quality learning opportunities. It strives to provide the support and inspiration students need to become successful, lifelong learners.
15. University of New Mexico-Los Alamos Campus
Score: 92.4
Average Net Price: $12,394
Retention Rate: 58%
Graduation Rate: 18%
Salary After Attending: $41,674
University of New Mexico-Los Alamos Campus (UNM) is located in Los Alamos, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college that doesn’t have any on-campus student housing. It hosts a student population of 871 students.
The student-to-faculty ratio is 9 to 1, so getting a professor’s attention here is a breeze. UNM is known for its small classroom sizes. Each class size is approximately 10 students. So the hands-on learning opportunities typically found at a private school become affordable here.
UNM Los Alamos offers Associate degrees and undergraduate certificates. Students can pursue an Associate’s online through this college. Some online programs can be completed in as little as 8 weeks. On-campus students can complete core subject matter requirements in more than 50 subjects, such as Greek and Astronomy, and earn degrees in well over 30 programs.
UNM’s vision is to be recognized as a premier education provider that builds on the work of experts across multiple disciplines. Its mission includes providing an affordable way for students to contribute to the regional, state, and national economy.
16. New Mexico Junior College
Score: 92.2
Average Net Price: $5,152
Retention Rate: 56%
Graduation Rate: 17%
Salary After Attending: $33,314
New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) is located in the remote town of Hobbs, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college with student housing. It has a student population of 2,247 undergraduates. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15 to 1.
NMJC provides students with distance education opportunities. It also facilitates weekend and evening courses for working students. AP classes and job placement services are also available.
Some of the most popular majors at this college include Cosmetology and Criminal Science. Other programs offered are Agriculture, Business Management, Construction Trades, Engineering, Nursing, and Education.
Its mission is to promote success through learning. To achieve this goal, NMJC strives to accommodate students with disabilities. This college helps disabled students access interpreters and note-takers. It also arranges for extended testing time.
17. Luna Community College
Score: 90.8
Average Net Price: $3,842
Retention Rate: 45%
Graduation Rate: 19%
Salary After Attending: $29,737
Luna Community College offers certificates that can be completed within a year. It also offers associate degree programs. Students may study allied health sciences, business, education, humanities, nursing, sciences, technology, engineering and math, and vocational trades. There are nearly three dozen associate degree and certificate programs available.
Distance education undergraduate programs, AP courses, remedial services, career counseling, and job placement services are on hand. Daycare is also available for students.
LCC’s mission is to create opportunities for students – pathways to rewarding jobs or further higher education pursuits. Faculty and staff care about each student’s journey. With one of the lowest tuition rates in the Southwest, Luna is an option with great value.
18. Northern New Mexico College
Score: 90.6
Average Net Price: $8,796
Retention Rate: 55%
Graduation Rate: 29%
Salary After Attending: $31,838
Northern New Mexico College (NNMC) is located in the town of Espanola, New Mexico. It’s a 4-year public college that doesn’t offer student housing. This school has a population of 926 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 12 to 1, which makes it an intimate learning experience for attendees.
NNMC offers certificates that take less than 4 years to complete. Students can take courses in 19 fields, including but not limited to Ethnic Studies, Biological and Biomedical Science, Business Management and Marketing, Computer and Information Sciences, Construction Trades, Communication Technologies, Education, Engineering, Conservation, Cosmetology, Welding, Cinematography, and the Visual Arts.
NNMC’s mission is to continue providing access to community-based learning opportunities that meet the cultural and economic needs of the region.
19. Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute
Score: 90.6
Average Net Price: $7,505
Retention Rate: 54%
Graduation Rate: 34%
Salary After Attending: $23,877
Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI), located in the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a 2-year public college with student housing. A student population of 367 makes the campus a peaceful and productive setting. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16 to 1, keeping the classroom a personal, individualized experience.
SIPI is a college that was envisioned by the All Indian Pueblo Council, intending to create a post-secondary school to serve the Native American community. Today the product of their vision sits on a 164-acre campus that features a state-of-the-art Science and Technology Center. It has ten classrooms, twelve research and teaching labs, and a 500-seat auditorium.
SIPI’s mission is to prepare Native American students to become lifelong learners. It uses partnerships with tribes and other organizations to achieve that goal.
20. University of New Mexico-Taos Campus
Score: 90.2
Average Net Price: $10,375
Retention Rate: 46%
Graduation Rate: 17%
Salary After Attending: $41,674
University of New Mexico-Taos Campus (UNM) is located in the rural town of Ranchos de Taos, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public college with no campus housing. This school has a student population of 1,219 undergraduates. The student-to-faculty ratio is 23 to 1, which makes it a prime setting for independent learners.
UNM offers distance education courses. Students can study abroad or attend weekend or evening college. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are available as well.
This college is one of the newest branches of the University of New Mexico system. Yet it has already ranked within the state’s top 25 community colleges. It sits between the Rio Grande and a 1,000-year-old pueblo.
Some of the most exciting education options this college offers include majors such as Education, Entrepreneurship, Holistic Health, Culinary Arts, Folk Art, and Artisanry Other program offerings are Social Work, Woodworking, and Physical Science.
Its mission is to prepare students to become educated, skilled, creative, and responsible individuals.
Honorable Mention
Santa Fe Community College
Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) is located in the small suburb of Santa Fe, New Mexico. It’s a 2-year public school that doesn’t offer student housing. This school has a population of 4,207 students. The student-to-faculty ratio is 13 to 1, which results in low competition for a professor’s attention.
SFCC offers certificates that take less than two years to complete. The college’s programs include Agriculture, Architecture, Cultural Studies, Biomedical Science, Business Management, Computer and Information Sciences, Construction, Education, and American Sign Language. Degrees in health professions such as Athletic Trainer, Dental Laboratory Technology, Home Health, Vocational Nursing, and Medical Assistant are also available. Associate’s degrees in Criminal Justice, Fire Science, Dental Assisting, and Nursing are also available.
Academic and career counseling services are on hand at SFCC. Daycare is also provided to students with children.
This community college is focused on successful four-year transfers. Its mission is to empower students and strengthen the community.
University of Phoenix-New Mexico
University of Phoenix-New Mexico (UPNM), located in the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a private college. Ed.gov reports its total enrollment as being 91 students. Their student-to-faculty ratio is 5 to 1, ensuring that it remains easy to get a professor’s attention.
UPNM is not too far away from the Alburquerque Zoo or the famous Sandia Peak Tramway. Students are not being enrolled in classes on campus at present. However, the college welcomes students to attend online and then visit its campus.
Students have an opportunity to take credit-by-examination tests on campus. Friendly staff wait to answer questions about attending. You can also visit the campus to learn about the Online Classroom Portal. Personalized lessons for students are available. Its staff is happy to help you learn how to start using Microsoft Office Excel®, PowerPoint®, and Word®. Math and English tutors are available, as well.
