Top 20 Affordable Colleges with High Graduation Rates
Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions a student will make, and for many, the cost of education plays a significant role in that decision. While many students are focused on finding a college that offers a great education at an affordable price, it’s equally important to consider graduation rates. Graduation rates can serve as an indicator of a college’s ability to support students through to degree completion, which can ultimately affect their long-term success. This article highlights 20 affordable colleges that not only provide quality education but also boast impressive graduation rates, ensuring that students are likely to complete their degree programs.
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- In-State Tuition: $9,000
- Graduation Rate: 89%
- UNC-Chapel Hill is a prestigious public university offering a high graduation rate, excellent academic programs, and relatively low in-state tuition. It is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.
2. University of Virginia
- In-State Tuition: $18,000
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- UVA is a public university with an exceptional graduation rate and a reputation for academic excellence. The in-state tuition makes it an affordable option for Virginia residents.
3. University of Florida
- In-State Tuition: $10,000
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- UF offers a diverse range of academic programs and an impressive graduation rate, making it a great option for students seeking a quality education at an affordable price.
4. University of Michigan
- In-State Tuition: $15,000
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Known for its strong academic programs, research opportunities, and high graduation rates, the University of Michigan offers an affordable in-state tuition rate for Michigan residents.
5. University of Wisconsin-Madison
- In-State Tuition: $10,000
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- UW-Madison is a well-regarded public institution with a variety of academic programs and a strong track record for graduation success, especially in STEM fields.
6. University of Texas at Austin
- In-State Tuition: $11,000
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- With a low in-state tuition and high graduation rate, UT Austin is an excellent choice for students looking to attend a large public university with strong academic programs.
7. University of Washington
- In-State Tuition: $11,000
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- The University of Washington provides a solid education with an impressive graduation rate, making it one of the top affordable public universities in the Pacific Northwest.
8. The College of William & Mary
- In-State Tuition: $22,000
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- A highly selective public university, William & Mary offers a rich academic experience with high graduation rates and an affordable tuition rate for in-state students.
9. University of Georgia
- In-State Tuition: $10,000
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- UGA offers affordable tuition and strong academic programs across a wide range of disciplines. The school’s commitment to student success is reflected in its high graduation rate.
10. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- In-State Tuition: $15,000
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- A large public university with a high graduation rate, UIUC is known for its strong engineering and business programs, making it an excellent choice for students looking for an affordable education.
11. University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- In-State Tuition: $15,000
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Known for its large campus and diverse academic offerings, the University of Minnesota offers competitive tuition rates and strong graduation outcomes.
12. University of Maryland, College Park
- In-State Tuition: $10,000
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- A top public university, UMD offers affordable tuition and strong graduation rates, especially in fields like engineering, business, and the sciences.
13. University of Connecticut
- In-State Tuition: $18,000
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- UConn is a flagship public university with a strong reputation for academic excellence, particularly in business and health-related fields. The university’s affordable in-state tuition and high graduation rate make it an attractive option.
14. University of Alabama
- In-State Tuition: $11,000
- Graduation Rate: 79%
- UA offers affordable tuition and a wide range of academic programs. The university’s strong focus on student support contributes to its impressive graduation rates.
15. Michigan State University
- In-State Tuition: $14,000
- Graduation Rate: 81%
- MSU is known for its agricultural and engineering programs and offers an affordable education with a high graduation rate, especially in STEM disciplines.
16. University of Pittsburgh
- In-State Tuition: $19,000
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Pitt offers a wide variety of academic programs, including strong offerings in health sciences, engineering, and business. Its high graduation rate reflects its commitment to student success.
17. Florida State University
- In-State Tuition: $10,000
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- FSU is a public university with an excellent graduation rate and affordable tuition for in-state students. It offers strong programs in fields such as business, education, and the arts.
18. University of Oklahoma
- In-State Tuition: $11,000
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- With an affordable tuition rate and high graduation rates in many disciplines, the University of Oklahoma is an excellent option for students looking for a quality education at a reasonable price.
19. Clemson University
- In-State Tuition: $15,000
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Known for its engineering and business programs, Clemson offers affordable tuition rates for South Carolina residents and a high graduation rate, making it a strong contender for prospective students.
20. University of Arizona
- In-State Tuition: $12,000
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- The University of Arizona offers affordable tuition and a strong academic reputation. With a focus on student support and resources, it ensures that students have a high likelihood of graduating on time.
Conclusion
Attending college is a significant financial commitment, but with careful planning and research, students can find institutions that offer both affordable tuition and high graduation rates. These 20 colleges are examples of schools that not only provide a quality education but also ensure that students have the support they need to succeed and complete their degree programs. By considering both the cost of tuition and the graduation rate, students can make an informed decision about where to pursue their higher education, setting themselves up for success both academically and financially.
