Best East Coast Colleges

The East Coast of the United States has a rich history of higher learning, with hundreds of institutions of higher learning. Among them are many highly renowned private and public colleges that consistently rank among the best in the nation.

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Perhaps no state is more closely associated with a thriving college-town scene than Massachusetts, home to five "Ivy League" schools and a host of public colleges that rank among the best.

East Coast Colleges

Two of those schools -- Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology -- are located in Cambridge, just outside of Boston.

The first thirteen states in the U.S. were on the East Coast, so it’s not surprising that some of the most well-known colleges in America are there, too. Harvard University was created in 1636 which predates the US Declaration of Independence by 140 years. One of the nation's oldest institutions of higher learning, Harvard University, and a number of universities, both state and public, were established in the 13 colonies.

Well-known Ivy League schools such as Harvard and Yale have been known to be centers of excellence for a long time, especially for research and academics. Even more importantly, these schools have been the center of America’s intellectual and cultural elite since they were originally established. As America progressed through the 20th century and into the 21st century, research & teaching done at these institutions have had a profound effect on many aspects of society.

There has been a lot of change in the last couple of centuries and that includes the establishment of many more institutions. There are now a lot of credible schools in states across America that have plenty of influence, but this doesn't mean that the East Coast has lost significance. In contrast, schools in the region have continued rising to meet new challenges and grow into successful establishments that help develop American intelligence.

There are many Ivy League colleges on the East Coast that consistently top “best of" lists. EDsmart dug through Niche's 2021 Best Colleges in America list and found which East Coast schools offer the best value. Schools are located in the District of Columbia and states that border the Atlantic Ocean within 100 miles of their eastern borders: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.

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Methodology

These rankings are based on average net prices for East coast colleges. The rankings below represent the cheapest universities on the East coast per data from the U.S. Department of Education.

49 Best East Coast Colleges

1. University of Florida

Average Net Price: $6,302

Since its founding over 160 years ago, the University of Florida has consistently put its weight into advancing the sciences, arts, and trades of the world and enhancing its practices for efficiency and accuracy. Their qualified and passionate staff is dedicated to preparing the next generations of innovators and experts and to finding solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems. They have always pursued the highest standards of excellence in research, education, and innovation. As stated on their website, their mission statement reads: “Our mission is to enable our students to lead and influence the next generation and beyond for economic, cultural, and societal benefit.”

2. Princeton University

Average Net Price: $11,317

Since its founding in 1746, Princeton University has served the New Jersey community with its world-class education quality and its global renown. As one of the oldest colleges in the United States, it has been headed by twenty presidents, each of whom has worked to build up the school to be the household name it is today. Princeton prides itself on its contributions as a Liberal Arts University and the expertise of the passionate educators it employs.

3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Average Net Price: $12,352

Founded in 1789, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was the nation’s first publicly owned and operated university and has consistently served its community with empiricism and expertise. They serve as a research center and community hub for the surrounding Raleigh area. UNC-Chapel Hill’s expert faculty and staff draw on the university’s diverse set of resources to ensure that their students receive high-quality instruction and enjoy their learning-friendly atmosphere to become professionals.

4. University of Georgia

Average Net Price: $13,649

Since its opening in 1801, the University of Georgia has provided quality education and produced expert graduates in a variety of fields for the betterment of American society and the world. Their mission statement “To advance the wellbeing of students and our community,” denotes their commitment to education and responsible citizenship individually and on a global scale. They boast such rankings as 16th among Best Public Colleges in the nation according to US News and World Report and 11th in Top Public Universities according to Niche.

5. Georgia Institute of Technology

Average Net Price: $14,739

Founded in 1885 in Atlanta, Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology is a public research school that ranks 4th among the top public universities in the nation in the nation according to Niche. Their engineering and computing offerings rank among the nation’s best. They offer a pointed variety of cooperative internships, career counseling, and seminars to help their students become qualified alumni with a clear understanding of their chosen career fields.

6. Harvard University

Average Net Price: $15,386

Harvard is a globally recognized university that ties with Columbia University as the 2nd best school in the nation according to US News and World Report. They believe strongly in their responsibility to educate citizens and produce leaders in society and specialized fields. The staff and students at Harvard engage in learning with a variety of unique approaches and commitment to quality education in liberal arts and the sciences.

7. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Average Net Price: $16,636

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology was founded in 1881 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. They have grown to be a world-renowned institute of learning that now drives the invention and innovation of new technologies and industries. Their global programs and renown enable their students to gain experience from a variety of study abroad options and internships in real-world situations. Their reputation brings students from around the world to their doors seeking education that meets the highest standards of educational quality.

8. Yale University

Average Net Price: $17,549

For more than three centuries, Yale has been committed to expanding and sharing knowledge, innovating industry, and uplifting the global community. Founded in 1701 in Saybrook, Connecticut, Yale has been serving the Saybrook area and the world through education, outreach, and technological development. Yale’s considerable reputation grants the degrees they offer a large amount of weight. meaning graduates of this school gain greater employment value by virtue of their alma mater’s repute.

9. Colby College

Average Net Price: $17,777

Colby College was founded in 1813 in Waterville, Maine that is committed to preparing its students for life and successful careers through both specialized study and general courses to broaden their general understanding. They put great effort into education because they greatly value the attainment of each student’s full potential and so they build their student experience with a focus on the maximum development of their students.

10. Amherst College

Average Net Price: $18,524

Amherst College was founded in 1821 in Amherst, Massachusetts, and ever since it has educated students with a drive to help them to achieve their exceptional potential. Amherst’s programs are designed and intended to seek, evaluate, and advance knowledge and the sciences so that students can elevate and engage the world around them according to strong principles, especially in their communities. Amherst attracts a variety of promising and passionate students and trains them to acquire and discover objective information whatever their field.

11. Swarthmore College

Average Net Price: $19,184

Swarthmore College’s mission drives its efforts in preparing the world’s next generation of experts in every field of study that the College offers its students. Since the school’s founding in 1860, its innovative methods and passionate teachers have elevated the minds of students and professionals alike. The college prioritizes broad access and inclusion for students, quality academics, and advanced education standards to benefit the global community.

12. Williams College

Average Net Price: $19,480

Williams College pursues the finest effectiveness possible in providing a liberal arts education. This school and its staff believe in the sincere and passionate pursuit of attainable goals and use them as a vehicle for improvement on an individual, family, community, and global level. The objective elevation of students’ talents and understanding are used as metrics of success and capability. Williams draws on the extraordinary resources at its disposal, the greatest and most valuable of which are the people who work hard to provide quality information and training.

13. William & Mary

Average Net Price: $19,800

The College of William and Mary is the second oldest higher learning institution in the nation with a broad and advanced effort in research. With over 300 years of education under their belts and a reputation for innovation, William & Mary provides a welcoming, student-centered learning environment for graduate and undergraduate learners to gain the skills that will help them accomplish their life goals.

14. University of Virginia

Average Net Price: $20,397

Founded in 1819, the University of Virginia has kept to its design as a public university advancing human understanding, educating future leaders, and creating an informed populous. The school is comprised of a total of twelve schools, including the College at Wise Southern Virginia. UV ranked 1st in Best-Value College in Virginia 2019 according to Forbes and in Most Generous Public College Financial Aid Package 2021 and Best-Value Public College 2019 according to Princeton Review, as well as 2nd in Best-Value Public University according to Money Magazine. UV’s prestige and passionate staff enable their Alumni to emerge into the skilled job market qualified and excited for success.

15. Virginia Polytechnic Institute

Average Net Price: $20,964

The Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) has functioned since 1872 as a public university focused on the discovery and dissemination of accurate information. By focusing on the importance of education and the student experience, Virginia Tech researches, discovers, and applies knowledge to innovate technology and uplift its students and the world as a whole. Their dedicated staff believes deeply in creating opportunities for their students to advance cognitively, financially, personally, and socially through education, counseling, and fellowship.

16. Bowdoin College

Average Net Price: $21,910

Bowdoin College aims to give students a prestigious, advantageous education and to engage their creative sides in the creation of art and real-world problem-solving. Their four-year programs are designed to provide students with general education as well as a specific understanding of their chosen profession. With these aspects as well as a well-accredited degree under their belt, Bowdoin Alumni graduate with ample skill to perform as leaders in the community and the world.

17. Wellesley College

Average Net Price: $22,087

The mission of Wellesley College is to provide a world-class education for women so they can serve as the leaders and innovators of future generations. "Non ministrari sed ministrare" is Wellesley College's motto, translating to “not to be ministered unto but to minister,” exemplifying their commitment to selfless service and giving. They encourage all, especially their students, to envision their ideal world and to act to make it a reality.

18. Washington & Lee University

Average Net Price: $22,615

Located in Lexington, VA, Washington and Lee University is a top-ranked private university that provides students with a robust and modern liberal arts education. W&L also has undergraduate programs for business and journalism among others, as well as a graduate Law School. Their graduates gain skills and experience from a concentrated faculty with a passion for understanding the world and benefiting its inhabitants.

19. Haverford College

Average Net Price: $22,991

Haverford College offers a unique education that its students never forget. Every student is trusted and able to be directly engaged with their education while they strive towards their personal goals. Haverford College was ranked #16 in National Liberal Arts Colleges, #127 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, #46 in Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects, and #17 in Senior Capstone by the U.S. News and World Report. Along with these national rankings, Niche.com gave the institution an overall grade rating of A+ for academics, value, and diversity. Students at Haverford College can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of course material by working directly with their professors who are experts in their respective fields. It is expected that all students will be involved in research, whether it's conducting experiments in the lab or analyzing data.

20. Columbia University

Average Net Price: $23,306

With a globally recognized history of research excellence, Columbia University has consistently ranked among the top universities and is one of the most important centers of research in and around the world. At the same time, Columbia University is a great educational institution that provides students with distinctive learning opportunities in many different fields. For example, the University has some of the best business schools in the world and is also home to one of the most selective engineering programs in America. Columbia University is one of the nation's most prestigious Ivy League schools, with this great distinguishment they’ve been ranked #2 in National Universities, #7 in Best Value Schools, and #57 in Most Innovative Schools by the U.S. News and World Report. The University offers a wide variety of courses that are suited to students of all backgrounds. Columbia University offers an array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs including thirteen graduate schools. It has a highly regarded medical center, four different colleges, and seminaries, as well as more than one hundred research centers.

21. Emory University

Average Net Price: $23,734

Emory University has been a force for positive change in the world since its founding in 1836. The institution has always upheld the motto of "create, preserve, teach and apply knowledge" to serve society and humanity. This mission remains at the center of Emory's work today, guiding the university in its drive to discover new knowledge and technologies, in its service of human needs locally and globally, and in preparing leaders who will make a change in an evolving world. Emory is internationally-revered for its excellent undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. They also have one of the best healthcare systems in the country. Students come to Emory University from all over the world because of our faculty members' dedication and excellence in teaching. Emory's leadership in academia is broad and deep, with medical advances being one of the many types. The school has been attracting record-setting funding and excellent faculty for decades

22. Hamilton College

Average Net Price: $25,440

Hamilton's curriculum is guided by its founding principle "Know Thyself" and is tasked with preparing students for lives of meaning, purpose, and active citizenship. The open curriculum gives students the freedom to explore their passions while developing skills such as critical thinking and communication. Hamilton College students are supported by a faculty advisor to create an individualized course of study that suits their skills, interests, and goals. This process provides students with a more focused education experience which also allows them to explore areas of expertise in greater depth. Hamilton's faculty is made up of accomplished scholars and distinguished teachers, who are highly invested in the intellectual development of their students. They work closely with their students both in and out of class, providing support wherever they need it.

23. Middlebury College

Average Net Price: $25,656

Middlebury College strives to provide a transformative learning experience for its students. They prioritize having a strong foundation in the liberal arts and any student who seeks this kind of education will find it at Middlebury. Students are also welcome to be part of the inclusive residential community that supports their endeavors. Middlebury College helps students make sense of the world's most challenging problems with their comprehensive education. Their focus is on developing minds and souls to bring about positive change. The curriculum is designed to ensure that each student receives a well-rounded, balanced experience across many fields and disciplines, as well as in-depth study in one specific field defined by the major. Middlebury provides a lot of opportunities to learn new and unique skills. They offer a diverse range of programs, so you can find something that fits your personal and professional interests. Intensive study in your desired major may lead to a senior thesis, an artistic project, or independent exploration working with esteemed professors in laboratories, internships, and in the classroom as student aids to collaborate on research and creative projects.

24. University of Pennsylvania

Average Net Price: $25,802

The University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Penn provides unparalleled academic opportunities and is always ranked among the top 10 schools in the nation. It has a huge student population with graduates coming from more than 134 countries and 50 states in America. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of Pennsylvania #8 among National Universities, #26 in Most Innovative Schools, #46 in Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects, and #1 in Nursing. Penn prides itself on its world-renowned educators who enable students to learn through inquiry and discovery, as well as follow their passions in order to address some of the toughest problems we face today.

25. Colgate University

Average Net Price: $25,834

The mission of Colgate University is to provide a high-quality educational experience to an intellectually and culturally diverse student body while teaching them to grow and challenge themselves and their peers. The University’s goal is to graduate wise critical thinkers and conscientious workers through a sophisticated and passionate staff and a broad array of resources. CU works to create a more connected and responsible global community through intellectual growth and increased awareness.

26. University of Richmond

Average Net Price: $25,911

The University of Richmond has educated students since 1830 with a vibrant and diverse staff with expertise in a huge array of subjects. RVA’s nearly 200 years of experience in education have enabled them to develop robust methods and garner the respect and cooperation of the local Richmond community. With a rich history as a school and in the surrounding area, the University of Richmond is the perfect place to obtain a strong grasp of any scholastic major.

27. Bates College

Average Net Price: $26,477

The first Bates College class graduated in 1855. Since then, the college and its students have been dedicated to the 'liberating potential' of a liberal arts education. The shared learning environment combines creativity through a rigorous scholarship to provide intellectual leadership and social action. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Bates College #25 in National Liberal Arts Colleges, #11 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, #34 in Best Value Schools, and #12 in Most Innovative Schools. Niche.com gave Bates College an overall grade rating of A+ for academics, value, and diversity. At Bates, students and professors come together to share their thirst for knowledge by collectively sharing various methods in the sciences, patterns of logic & language, the study of society, and expression through the arts. ​​A Bates education fosters intellectual inquiry and reflection, which will enable the individual to see beyond their own abilities. Students will be able to work in a collaborative environment with professors that are always on hand for support. Graduating from Bates College will lead you to a life of success and fulfillment.

28. Wesleyan University

Average Net Price: $26,527

Wesleyan University, founded in 1831, is a diverse and energetic liberal arts institution that takes a very active part in its local community. The university offers an exceptional education in the liberal arts and sciences that prepares students to be creative thinkers and leaders. Wesleyan University was ranked #17 in National Liberal Arts Colleges, #1 in Best Colleges for Veterans, and #48 in Best Undergraduate Teaching by the U.S. News and World Report. Wesleyan University is a very distinctive, forward-thinking institution that boasts a scholar-teacher culture, creative programming, and commitment to interdisciplinary learning. With these attributes and more, Wesleyan University offers students opportunities for exploration and change, guiding students towards ambitious goals of social impact. Graduates leave the university and go on to have really diverse careers. They can be found in many different industries, like government, business, entertainment, and science.

29. Duke University

Average Net Price: $27,020

Duke University's mission is to provide a superior liberal education to undergraduate students, focusing on their intellectual growth as well as their personal development in order for them to be prepared for any future situation. They do this by pushing students towards ethical standards and encouraging social responsibility. Duke has been ranked #9 among National Universities, #16 in Most Innovative Schools, #2 in Nursing, #12 in Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects, and #9 in Co-ops/Internships by U.S. News and World Report. Niche.com gave Duke University an overall grade rating of A+ and ranked #1 in Best Christian Colleges in America. The top five majors for undergraduate students include computer science, public policy, biology, economics, and psychology. Duke offers highly-advanced graduate and professional studies in 10 schools of study. A few of their professional colleges include the School of Medicine, School of Nursing, Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke Law School, and Nicholas School of Environment. 

30. Vassar College

Average Net Price: $27,808

Founded in 1861, Vassar was an early example of a higher education establishment aiming to provide women with levels of access that were not common in the recent past. Today, they are open to all students and aim to create a safe environment where everyone is afforded the opportunity to thrive. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Vassar College #3 in Best Colleges for Veterans, #32 in Top Performers on Social Mobility, and #22 in National Liberal Arts Colleges. Vassar offers a broad education, whereby you are able to tailor it to your own needs. Their curriculum is broader and richer than before, with an increased focus on multidisciplinary approaches to intellectual inquiry. Vasser College has over 1,000 courses spanning 30 departments and 51 majors. The Vassar faculty is comprised of a fantastic and diverse community of some of the country's top intellects. Faculty are drawn to Vassar because of its reputation as one of the world's most prestigious colleges, and for the chance to educate the next generation of leaders.

31. Smith College

Average Net Price: $28,193

Smith has been a pioneer in educating women at the college level since its founding and was one of the first colleges in the world to grant academic degrees to women. Smith College is a liberal arts-based research and education institution that, by equipping its graduates with interdisciplinary knowledge, strives to improve the world by producing new leaders. One of the things you'll gain from attending Smith is a dually-focused college education, in both the arts and the sciences. The combination of these two fields will help broaden your perspective on social issues and how to address them. Niche.com gave Smith College an overall grade rating of A+ for academics, value, and diversity. You'll meet with a group of instructors who expect the highest standards of academic achievement. They take their role in your education seriously and make sure you're getting the best education possible.

32. Barnard College

Average Net Price: $28,204

Barnard College's high-quality liberal arts education is designed with the ambitious and high-achieving woman in mind. They offer the unmatched benefits of a residence at an elite liberal arts college, paired with a research university affiliation. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Barnard College #16 in Most Innovative Schools, #17 in National Liberal Arts Colleges, and #38 in Best Value Colleges. Niche.com gave the college an overall grade rating of A+ for academics and value. With its team of world-recognized and forward-thinking teachers, Barnard is a place where progressive minds meet and discourse. With dozens of individual departments catering to different fields, it's easy to find your passion. At Barnard College, students are continuously learning and developing valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and writing. They graduate ready to take on challenging or unfamiliar future endeavors- whether those might be leadership positions in a company or starting their own company.

33. Davidson College

Average Net Price: $28,615

Davidson College is an institute that aims to help students build humane instincts and the ability to think creatively. The college is well-known for shaping leaders with brilliant mindsets. Davidson College is a North Carolina-based institution of higher learning that was established in 1837 by Presbyterians. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Davidson College #8 in Best Value Schools, #10 in Undergraduate Research/Creativity, and #26 in Most Innovative Schools. Davidson believes that all students in every class should have the opportunity to learn from mature and well-qualified professors, who are able and willing to provide the right kind of stimulation, instruction, and guidance. Niche.com gave Davidson College an overall grade rating of A+ for academics and value. Davidson offers a diverse array of majors and minors. All in all, there are 31 majors, 40 minors, and 15 interdisciplinary minors to choose from. Davidson is known for excellence in undergraduate research. Faculty work with the students to enhance their research skills and integrate the skills into the classroom experience. Students often get to work alongside faculty on original projects.

34. Georgetown University

Average Net Price: $28,909

Established in 1789, the University was founded on the principle of open discussion and discourse. The idea behind this is that people from different backgrounds and cultures can learn a lot from each other by sharing ideas with one another. Georgetown is more than just an academic institution. It encourages education in the Jesuit tradition and has a commitment to excellence that spans all levels of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education. The faculty excel in their respective fields and is there to provide a social environment for you as you learn about your field. Each professor encourages independent thinking so that each student can go beyond textbook information. You will gain intellectual skills pertaining to perception, analysis, interpretation, and expression while attending lectures, working on small group projects, or doing independent studies. You will also have a chance to improve your communication abilities through office hours and internships. Georgetown keeps a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, smaller class sizes have given graduates greater success. 91% of graduates are either employed or continuing their education shortly after graduating.

35. Johns Hopkins University

Average Net Price: $29,342

John Hopkins University has been educating students for over 140 years. It was established in 1876 and is one of the oldest universities in the nation. Johns Hopkins University strives to educate its students and cultivate lifelong learning, foster independent research, and bring the benefits of discovery to the world. The U.S. News and World Report ranked John Hopkins University #9 in National Universities, #11 in Most Innovative Schools, and #17 in Undergraduate Research/Creative Projects. This year, there will be over 24,000 students attending Johns Hopkins University. There are also 9 academic divisions to choose from as well as many opportunities to get a degree in a variety of programs. John Hopkins offer over 400 different academic programs for our students who are pursuing their degrees in the arts and music, humanities, math and sciences, education, international studies, business, or health. John Hopkins researchers have consistently been leading top federal research projects and discovering groundbreaking results, with a history of success dating back over 40 years. Their researchers also work with students and help them to learn more about the work they want to do. Two-thirds of our undergraduate students go on to work in a research lab as part-time or full-time researchers, whatever their interests may be.

36. Brown University

Average Net Price: $29,392

Established in 1764, Brown is an innovative research university with world-renowned faculty. The intellectual joy of students shapes academic excellence and encourages experimentation, discovery, service, and global exploration. Brown University was ranked #3 in Best Colleges for Veterans, #4 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, and #14 in National Universities. Niche.com gave Brown University an overall grade rating of A+ for academics, value, and diversity. The University has enjoyed a reputation for its one-of-a-kind undergraduate experience. With its Open Curriculum, students have the flexibility to craft their experience and are also part of a rigorous program that is known for its leadership skills. Brown University's campus is located in Rhode Island and contains a diverse range of graduate-level programs. Alongside this, there are the Warren Alpert Medical School, School of Public Health, and School of Engineering.

37. Lafayette College

Average Net Price: $29,884

Lafayette College is committed to the free communication of diverse ideas and values, and, by doing so, aims to foster inquisitive minds. This environment also aids in the personal growth of students. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Lafayette College #38 in National Liberal Arts Colleges, #96 in Best Value Schools, and #19 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs. Niche.com gave the institution an overall grade rating of A+ for academics, value, and diversity. Lafayette College's well-rounded degree programs are a rare combination of liberal arts and engineering programs. This enables students to pursue their academic interests while also preparing for their future careers and gaining the skills they need to be successful in the modern workforce. Lafayette has a strong faculty that is very innovative in its respective fields. They love teaching and mentoring, so it’s no wonder they provide one of the highest rates for student-faculty research out of any school! Lafayette's students learn on campus and off. They have the opportunity to be a part of courses, community-based teams, service-learning programs, and trips that broaden their outlook on our global world.

38. Wake Forest University

Average Net Price: $29,990

Wake Forest is renowned for being a university that is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in the liberal arts and in graduate and professional education. They are known to offer exceptional undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. Wake Forest University was ranked #28 in National Universities, #29 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, #24 in Best Value Schools, and #70 in Most Innovative Schools by the U.S. News and World Report. Niche.com gave Wake Forest an overall grade rating of A+ for academics, diversity, and campus. The University now has seven different parts: Wake Forest College, the School of Law, the School of Medicine, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, the School of Professional Studies, and the School of Divinity. Wake Forest University academics are at the forefront of developing new ways to improve the health and well-being of people. Wake Forest University academics have some of the most influential and well-respected professors. They have been teaching at the university for years, and have a lot to offer including hands-on experience and research projects alongside the faculty.

39. Boston University

Average Net Price: $30,259

Boston University is a private research university that focuses on providing a well-rounded education to its students. They are ready to graduate with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce and thrive in today's complex global world. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Boston University #42 among National Universities, #38 in Best Value Schools, and #70 in Most Innovative Schools. Boston University offers a selection of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs with a great deal of focus on the liberal arts and sciences. The Board of Trustees supports and oversees all projects, the University continues to innovate in education and research with the intention of meeting the needs of students in a fast-changing world. Our faculty members are supported by state-of-the-art facilities to provide instruction that is tailored to a variety of educational paths.

40. Tufts University

Average Net Price: $30,744

Tufts University is a private research institution in Medford, Massachusetts. They promise to provide you with transformative experiences. They want to create an inclusive and collaborative environment where they encourage creative scholars to generate bold ideas, innovate in the face of difficult challenges, and stand out as leaders. Tufts University offers a wide range of degree programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. A few of Tufts University's most popular schools are its School of Engineering, School of Dental Medicine, School of Medicine, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, and School of Arts/Sciences. TU is designed to fit every student's educational needs on their journey to a prosperous career.

41. Lehigh University

Average Net Price: $30,832

Lehigh University is one of the nation's most prestigious private research universities and offers a world-class education. To provide the best possible opportunities for students, they have built an institution that challenges students to learn in a rigorous academic environment and constantly encourages them to develop their entrepreneurial skills. Lehigh offers collaborative opportunities that result in students becoming leaders in a variety of fields. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Lehigh University #13 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, #29 in Best Value Schools, and #49 in National Universities. The university offers more than 190 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in six colleges: Engineering, Business, Arts and Sciences, Education, and Health. Along with its many undergraduate and graduate programs, Lehigh offers over 20 interdisciplinary programs across many colleges.

42. University of Miami

Average Net Price: $30,841

The University of Miami is a private research institution with a student body of over 17,000 students. The university strives for academic excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship. They seek the most talented people from all backgrounds and diverse perspectives who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, creativity, leadership skills, and a commitment to making a difference. The University of Miami offers an amazing range of experiences for students. There are over 180 undergraduate majors as well as opportunities for graduate-level study in a wide variety of fields with an emphasis on research. The University of Miami offers a medical education through the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine. The U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of Miami #55 among National Universities, #31 in Nursing, and #123 in Best Value Schools.

43. Northeastern University

Average Net Price: $31,093

Northeastern University is a private institution located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts. The university has many prestigious rankings from the U.S. News and World Report including #11 in Most Innovative Schools, #49 in National Universities, #58 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, and #1 in Internships. Northeastern has a long-standing reputation for world-class faculty. They offer programs led by experts in emerging industries and give students opportunities to chart their own academic paths. Northeastern University has 9 schools and colleges including the College of Engineering, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, D'Amore-McKim School of Business, and the School of Law. 93% are either employed or accepted in graduate school within nine months of graduating.

44. Dartmouth College

Average Net Price: $33,574

Dartmouth provides a world-class education to the most promising students in America and prepares them for a lifetime of learning, and responsibility. Their world-renowned faculty's dedication to teaching, research, and the creation of knowledge lead to student success. Dartmouth is an Ivy League school that’s been ranked #13 in National Universities, #5 in Best Undergraduate Teaching, #2 in Best Colleges for Veterans, and #20 in Best Value Schools. Niche.com has given Darmouth an overall grade rating of A+ for its academics and value. The Arts and Sciences include over 40 academic departments, with economics, government, computer science, engineering sciences, and biology among the most popular among students graduating in 2020. There are more than 75 centers and institutes with a research learning experience in the arts, medicine, engineering, and business. Many of them have faculty working with students from across campus on complex projects.

45. Carnegie Mellon University

Average Net Price: $34,508

Carnegie Mellon University's mission is to educate its students in a transformative way. Part of Carnegie Mellon University's goal is to provide an educational experience for students that focuses on deep disciplinary knowledge and problem-solving. We also focus on leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills as well as personal health and well-being. Carnegie is a competitive institution with an acceptance rate of 15%. Among its many rankings, Carnegie Mellon landed itself on the Forbes list of Top Colleges 2021. The best universities are places where students and teachers explore side by side, collaborate on research, and tackle society's biggest challenges. World-class research is what CMU’s curriculum is all about. A world-leading research institution, Carnegie Mellon University is a highly prestigious academic destination that's renowned for being on the cutting edge of new and groundbreaking research. With experts and professors available in all fields of study, this world-class university is an ideal choice for young adults.

46. Boston College

Average Net Price: $35,899

Boston College is a research university that has been recognized internationally for decades for its excellence and offers a variety of academic programs and study abroad opportunities. They are known for their dedication to pioneering discoveries in the fields of medicine, public health, and science and their commitment to educating the next generation of leaders. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Boston College #36 in National Universities, #39 in Best Value Schools, and #40 in Most Innovative Schools. Boston College’s most popular undergraduate majors include psychology, nursing, finance, biology, neuroscience, economics, and political science. Research done at Boston College examines the complex problems of our world and offers novel solutions by considering religion and culture, science and technology, art and education, business, and ethics.

47. Cornell University

Average Net Price: $40,126

Cornell is a private Ivy League university and the state of New York's land-grant university. Cornell's mission is to discover, preserve, and disseminate knowledge. It strives to educate people of the next generation while promoting diversity and collaboration in the academic society. Being a student of academia, you'll get to work closely with world-class teachers and students from diverse backgrounds, all looking to collaborate and work together on world-changing research. In the classroom, you'll start to explore the material in more depth before designing your own inquiries and working with teams. You'll also have a go at putting into practice what you're learning by working with professionals in your field of study. Cornell offers 80 undergraduate majors and over 100 graduate fields of study. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Cornell University #17 among National Universities, #22 in Best Value Schools, and #21 in Most Innovative Schools. Some of their most popular fields of study include Engineering Physics, Food Science, Government, Music, Psychology, Statistical Science, and much more.

48. Villanova University

Average Net Price: $40,134

Villanova University is a Catholic university in the Augustinian tradition. They offer excellent education and engage in research that benefits society. Villanova has made a commitment to foster academic excellence, and honor values, to serve students and the surrounding community. The U.S. News and World Report ranked Villanova University #49 among National Universities and #23 in Nursing. Niche.com gave VU an overall grade rating of A+ for academics, value, and campus life. Villanova's combination of research, teaching, and learning provides a great educational atmosphere for all students. They are set up for success in any field they wish to pursue. Villanova University offers various degrees through a wide range of degree programs for undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Their knowledgeable faculty and supportive environment offer exceptional opportunities to learn. As a student, you’ll be learning in one of the following schools: College of Liberal Arts/Sciences, School of Business, School of Law, College of Engineering, College of Nursing, or College of Professional Studies.

49. New York University

Average Net Price: $45,417

New York University's mission is to be an internationally-recognized center for academic excellence. NYU upholds this mission by having world-renowned faculty that are well respected in their field, encouraging them to create programs that draw up-and-coming students, and having them provide an environment where it is easy to think critically and creatively. The U.S. News and World Report ranked New York University #28 among National Universities, #23 in Most Innovative Schools, and #77 in Best Value Schools. NYU offers over 400 academic programs across a wide diversity of fields and interests. Popular fields of study include acute care surgery, biomedical engineering, cardiology, adolescent mental health studies, dance, emerging media, endodontics, film, history, interactive telecommunication, journalism, medical humanities, neurology, plastic surgery, politics, and many more advanced studies.

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