Best
Private Colleges in Rochester in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Rochester, NY provides training in management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, business communication, and organizational behavior. Students may also learn entrepreneurship, data analysis, and operations through projects or internships. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, operations supervisor, or business analyst. Popular local options include Rochester Institute of Technology and Monroe Community College, both offering business administration study pathways. Programs typically combine learning with practical experience.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Rochester, NY introduces students to human behavior, mental processes, and research. Typical courses include introductory psychology, statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and abnormal psychology. Students may gain experience through labs, internships, or community placements. Popular options include the University of Rochester, Rochester Institute of Technology, Nazareth University, and St. John Fisher University. Graduates pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, or human resources assistant.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science program in Rochester, NY offers coursework in programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build skills through projects, internships, and research, especially at the University of Rochester, Rochester Institute of Technology, and Monroe Community College. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, web developers, or IT consultants. Rochester's technology employers and healthcare, education, and research organizations offer opportunities.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Rochester, NY, typically combines psychology foundations, counseling theories, ethics, multicultural practice, assessment, diagnosis, group counseling, and supervised fieldwork. Popular local options include the University of Rochester and Roberts Wesleyan University, which offer counseling graduate programs. Coursework prepares students for roles such as licensed mental health counselor, substance use counselor, school counselor (with required credentials), case manager, or behavioral health specialist. Licensure typically requires a relevant master's degree, supervised experience, and examinations.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Rochester, New York, offers pathways from associate through bachelor's degrees. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child care, mental health, and clinical practice. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or community health settings; practical nursing programs prepare graduates to provide direct patient care. Local options include the University of Rochester School of Nursing and Monroe Community College, offering nursing education.

Best Colleges in Rochester, NY Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 40,090.0, compared with 61,304.0 for schools in the top 10%, a difference of 21,214.0.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 69.83% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 69.83%. Schools receive an average of 10,156.67 applicants, while top-10% schools average 24,647.5 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,765.0 for men and 3,303.5 for women.
• The average SAT score is 1,282.5, and the average ACT score is 29.0.
• Schools average 5,229.71 enrolled students. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 525.5 and 504.4, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 63.17%, compared with 79.5% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 66.5% for men and 75.5% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, nine offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• Six schools are coeducational; there are no schools for men and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare its cost and financial-aid availability with your budget, and consider how its admissions selectivity and average test scores align with your profile. Also weigh graduation outcomes, including the overall and gender-specific figures, and look at degree offerings and school composition to find an option that fits your goals.

How much does studying at a college in Rochester, NY cost?

The reported average total cost of studying in Rochester, NY, is $38,208.71. For you as a local student, that is a starting benchmark - not a guaranteed bill - when comparing colleges such as the University of Rochester, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and SUNY Brockport. Your actual expenses will vary by program, housing, and financial aid, but Rochester's range of campuses gives you room to find an academic and financial fit.

• Average tuition and fees: $40,861.71.
• Average room and board: $14,580.00.
• Average books and supplies: $1,126.57.

Note: tuition and fees are reported above total cost, so these figures do not reconcile; treat them as separate benchmarks, not sums. Check each school's current estimate and ask about grants, scholarships, and payment plans. Comparing commuting and housing options can help you budget confidently for a degree close to home, as you plan your next steps with greater peace of mind.

How long does it take to finish college in Rochester, NY?

In Rochester, NY, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate's degree at Monroe Community College usually takes two. At the University of Rochester or Rochester Institute of Technology, part-time study, changing majors, or taking lighter course loads can extend that timeline.

Graduation rates offer a measure of how many students complete their degrees: the average rate is 63.17%, compared with 79.5% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 60.83% for men and 65.33% for women.

To finish faster, Rochester students can explore options that may make graduation feel closer:

• Use AP, IB, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits to meet requirements, after confirming the college accepts them.
• Take summer or winter courses, or a heavier load if manageable, to complete credits year-round.
• Start at Monroe Community College and transfer into a bachelor's program, checking articulation agreements to avoid losing credits.

Salary

Graduates in Rochester, NY, earn a median alumni salary of $59,029. For graduates of schools ranked in the top 10%, the median rises to $71,492 - a difference of $12,463 that may offer an encouraging benchmark as you compare local colleges and programs.

Your own earning potential will depend on your field, experience, and the degree you pursue. Rochester students can explore options at institutions such as the University of Rochester, Rochester Institute of Technology, and Monroe Community College, then compare programs and career paths to find a good fit for their goals.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Rochester?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of Rochester is a strong pick for a classic campus feel. Its River Campus has green lawns, mature trees, and handsome stone buildings, with the Genesee River nearby. If you visit, take a stroll around the main campus and see whether its blend of historic character and open green space feels like home.

What is the most selective college in Rochester?

Among Rochester's broad-based undergraduate universities, the University of Rochester is generally one of the most selective, though admission rates change from year to year. Eastman School of Music, part of the university, is also highly selective for its specialized music programs, where auditions and musical preparation matter. Compare requirements for your intended major, not just overall admit rates.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Rochester, NY Ranking in 2026-2027

University of Rochester is a research-intensive university with a broad academic offering and a strong campus-based experience in Rochester, New York. Its 11,211 enrolled students have an 85% graduation rate and a 40% acceptance rate. Listed total study cost is $65,870, while median alumni salary is $69,780. For a local student, studying here can mean access to neighborhoods, cultural venues, and employers without leaving the area. Compare aid and program costs before deciding whether its research focus fits your goals.

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is known for technology-focused learning, applied research, and career-oriented programs. Its Rochester, New York campus serves 17,098 students, with a 70% graduation rate and a 67% acceptance rate. Total listed study cost is $58,260, and median alumni salary is $73,204. For students living nearby, the campus offers a large university setting while keeping local connections within reach. Explore majors, co-op options, financial aid, and commuting or housing expenses to judge the full value of attendance.

Nazareth University is a smaller private university in Rochester, New York, known for a close-knit campus and programs spanning liberal arts, health, education, and the arts. It enrolls 2,430 students; its graduation rate is 73%, and its acceptance rate is 75%. Listed total study cost is $40,300, with median alumni salary of $44,355. Its smaller student body may appeal if you want a personal campus atmosphere near the city. Check whether intended major, scholarships, and living costs align with your plans.

St. John Fisher University is a private university in Rochester, New York, with a suburban campus and programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and the liberal arts. It enrolls 3,676 students, graduates 74%, and has a 66% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $40,090, while median alumni salary is $62,163. For a student, its size may offer a balance between campus community and access to Rochester opportunities. Review program requirements, aid, and commuting expenses to compare options.

Roberts Wesleyan University is a small private university in Rochester, New York, with a faith-informed tradition and a liberal arts foundation. Its 1,809 students experience a 67% graduation rate and a 71% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $37,408, and median alumni salary is $55,895. The university's enrollment may suit students seeking a close campus community while remaining near Rochester's services and cultural life. Compare available majors, financial aid, campus housing, and transportation costs when estimating investment.