Best
Private Colleges in Utah in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Utah offers preparation for careers across industries, combining foundational business knowledge with practical skills. Typical courses include accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and analytics. Graduates may pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, financial analyst, operations supervisor, or management analyst. Popular Utah options include the University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Utah State University, and Weber State University, each offering business programs suited to interests and goals.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Utah offers opportunities to explore human behavior, mental processes, and evidence-based care. Typical coursework includes developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, research methods, statistics, personality, and abnormal psychology. Options include the University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Utah State University, and Southern Utah University. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, research assistant, or human resources specialist; clinical or counseling positions generally require graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying a computer science degree in Utah combines theory and hands-on learning, preparing students for technology careers. Typical courses include programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, data analysts, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, or IT consultants. Popular study options include the University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Utah State University, Weber State University, and Utah Valley University. Programs offer internships.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Utah can prepare students to support individuals, families, and communities across schools, clinics, and community agencies. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, and supervised practicum experience. Utah colleges offering related programs include the University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Utah State University, and Utah Valley University. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, substance use counselor, or case manager.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Utah combines classroom learning, simulation, and clinical placements in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and maternal, pediatric, mental-health, and community health nursing. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term-care facilities, or public health. Popular Utah options include the University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Weber State University, Utah Valley University, and Southern Utah University. Admissions requirements vary.

Best Colleges in Utah Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 16,548.0, compared with 27,250.8 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 10,702.8.
• On average, 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with 78.33% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 78.33%. Schools receive an average of 2,699.0 applicants, while top-10% schools receive an average of 7,331.0.
• The median number of male applicants is 451.5, compared with 259.5 female applicants.
• The average SAT score is 1,290.0, and the average ACT score is 28.0.
• The average number of enrolled students is 20,527.77. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 563.0 and 639.5, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 49.91%, compared with 64.0% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 42.5% for men and 51.0% for women.
• Seven institutions offer associate's degrees, 14 offer bachelor's degrees, nine offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• Twelve schools are coeducational. There are zero schools for men and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, prospective students should weigh cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, academic measures, enrollment, graduation outcomes, and available degree levels. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, but also higher average graduation rates; students should consider which of these factors best matches their needs.

How much does studying at a college in Utah cost?

In Utah, the reported average total cost of studying is $16,854.30, a useful starting point for estimating a college budget. The reported average tuition and fees are $18,183.33, so compare school estimates closely as you plan.

• Average room and board: $12,068.50
• Average books and supplies: $1,172.50

These figures describe typical costs for Utah students, but total cost and individual expense averages are reported separately; don't add them together as though they form one consistent bill. Your own amount will depend on campus, living arrangement, program, and financial aid.

Students at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Brigham Young University in Provo, or Utah State University in Logan can use the statewide average as a baseline, then check their college's current estimate. Living at home or receiving scholarships may reduce expenses; room and board are major budget items. Planning early can make earning a Utah degree feel more manageable - and exciting.

How long does it take to finish college in Utah?

Most full-time bachelor's students in Utah should plan on about four years to earn a degree, while an associate degree commonly takes two years. At the University of Utah, Brigham Young University, Utah State University, and Utah Valley University, your timeline depends on course load, major requirements, and whether you study year-round.

Graduation rates offer a reality check: the average rate is 49.91%, meaning about half graduate in the reported measure. At schools in the top 10%, the average graduation rate is 64%. Average rates are 41.5% for men and 51.27% for women. These figures show that completion is not automatic, making consistent planning and support important.

Utah students can shorten the path by bringing in AP or IB credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated or competency-based program. Meet an adviser early to confirm credits fit your major; careful scheduling can often save valuable time and money.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Utah earn a median alumni salary of about $59,692. At schools ranked in the top 10%, the median rises to about $74,216 - a promising benchmark as you consider where to study and what career you want to pursue.

Utah offers many options, including the University of Utah, Brigham Young University, and Utah State University. Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your field, experience, and career location, so treat these figures as statewide reference points rather than a guaranteed salary from any one school.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Utah?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of Utah is a strong contender. Its Salt Lake City campus sits against the Wasatch Mountains, giving students striking views and easy access to nearby trails and outdoor recreation. The mix of mountain scenery, leafy campus spaces, and city energy can make everyday walks to class feel special.

What is the most selective college in Utah?

Brigham Young University is often considered one of Utah's most selective universities, though rankings can vary by year and by how selectivity is measured. Its admissions process considers more than grades alone, so applicants should review current requirements and build a thoughtful application. For Utah students, its Provo location also offers a lively college-town experience.

What is the richest university in Utah?

By commonly reported endowment size, Brigham Young University appears to be Utah's wealthiest university. Endowment figures represent invested funds, not a school's total budget or overall financial resources, and they change over time. BYU also receives support from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, so endowment size alone does not tell the whole story.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Utah Ranking in 2026-2027

Brigham Young University offers Utah students a large campus experience in Provo, with a broad range of academic fields and a strong faith-based community. It enrolls 37,337 students, making it the largest school in this group. Its 81% graduation rate and 68% acceptance rate provide useful context for applicants. Annual total study cost is $6,688, while median alumni salary is $55,539. Students can weigh affordability, campus scale, and outcomes when considering study options across Utah and beyond after graduation there.

Westminster University offers a smaller private university setting in Salt Lake City, where students can study close to the state's urban amenities and mountain recreation. Its enrollment is 1,168, with a 64% graduation rate and 67% acceptance rate. The listed total cost of studying is $43,008, and median alumni salary is $49,765. These figures help prospective students compare individualized campus scale and cost with larger Utah institutions. Westminster's private character and academic environment may appeal to learners seeking a close-knit community.

Midwives College of Utah is a specialized option for Utah students drawn to midwifery education and maternal health. With 239 enrolled students, it is the smallest school in this comparison, offering a focused learning environment rather than a large university campus. Its graduation rate is 40%, acceptance rate is 86%, and total study cost is $8,060. Median alumni salary is $44,937. Applicants should consider how its specialized mission matches career goals and review program requirements, practical training, and Utah opportunities.

Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences serves Utah learners focused on nursing and health careers. Its enrollment of 2,073 places it between the small specialist colleges and large universities listed here. The school reports a 54% graduation rate and 62% acceptance rate. Total cost of studying is $18,700, while median alumni salary is $68,214, highest among these five schools. Prospective students can compare its career-focused setting with Utah's higher education choices and examine program outcomes, clinical learning, and affordability.

Eagle Gate College-Murray offers Utah students a career-oriented college option in Murray, with an emphasis on practical preparation through its college identity. It enrolls 410 students, and reports a 48% graduation rate. Acceptance rate data are unavailable, so applicants should contact the school directly for admissions details. Its total cost of studying is $16,548, and median alumni salary is $66,279. Utah residents can assess its smaller setting, goals, program fit, and costs before choosing a path in the state.