Best
Public Colleges in Massachusetts in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Massachusetts combines foundational coursework in accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and data analysis. Programs often add internships, team projects, and entrepreneurship options. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or financial associate. Popular Massachusetts colleges offering this degree include the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Boston University, Northeastern University, Bentley University, and the University of Massachusetts Boston. Compare curricula, location, and costs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Massachusetts combines coursework in research methods, developmental and social psychology, cognition, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Students may explore counseling, neuroscience, and clinical practice through electives or internships. Options include Harvard University, Boston University, Northeastern University, University of Massachusetts Amherst, and Clark University. A bachelor's degree can prepare graduates for roles such as research assistant, case manager, human resources specialist, or behavioral health technician; licensed psychologist and therapist careers typically require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Massachusetts offers access to universities, research labs, internships, and technology employers. Typical coursework includes programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, software engineering, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build skills through projects and collaborative work. Popular places to study include Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Northeastern University, Boston University, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Graduates pursue jobs as software developers, data analysts, systems engineers, or cybersecurity specialists.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Massachusetts combines coursework in counseling theory, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural practice, and research with supervised field experience. Graduates may pursue roles such as mental health counselor, school counselor, substance-use counselor, or career counselor, depending on degree level, licensure, and specialization. Popular options include Boston University, University of Massachusetts Boston, Northeastern University, Lesley University, and Salem State University. Programs vary, so compare accreditation, placements, and Massachusetts licensure requirements before enrolling.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Massachusetts offers pathways from associate to bachelor's degrees, combining classroom learning with clinical practice. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and community health. Graduates may pursue roles as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, schools, or long-term care facilities, while advanced study can lead to nurse practitioner careers. Popular choices include the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Boston College, Northeastern University, and the University of Massachusetts Boston nursing programs.

Best Colleges in Massachusetts Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 7,762.0, compared with 36,714.6 at schools in the top 10%, a substantially higher median for that group.
• An average of 98.6% of students receive financial aid, versus 84.85% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 84.85%. Schools receive an average of 10,718.23 applicants, compared with 19,765.8 applicants at top-10% schools. The median number of male applicants is 2,465, while the median number of female applicants is 3,363.
• The average SAT score is 1,154.44, and the average ACT score is 25.44.
• Schools have an average of 8,064.53 enrolled students, including averages of 615.92 enrolled men and 684.77 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 53.47%, compared with 72.0% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 50.0% for men and 59.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, 14 offer bachelor's degrees, 14 offer master's degrees, and five offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 15 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total study costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, applicant and enrollment figures, and graduation outcomes. Consider which degree levels are offered and whether the school's student mix and average SAT and ACT scores align with your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in Massachusetts cost?

The average reported cost of studying in Massachusetts is $16,948.47, though it should be treated as a typical study-year estimate rather than the full price of earning a degree. Your bill depends on the college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. For a student comparing options such as UMass Amherst, Boston University, Northeastern, or a community college, the available averages are:

• Tuition and fees: $13,526
• Room and board: $16,388.23
• Books and supplies: $1,300

These are separate averages and should not be added to the reported total; institutions and cost calculations may differ. Massachusetts offers paths, from residential universities to commuter-friendly campuses, so comparing net prices and asking about grants, scholarships, and transfer pathways can make the decision feel more manageable. Because no program length or school-specific price is supplied, a total for a degree cannot be calculated. Use $16,948.47 as a benchmark, then verify the yearly cost with your school.

How long does it take to finish college in Massachusetts?

A bachelor's degree in Massachusetts typically takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree usually takes two. Students attending part-time, changing majors, or needing prerequisite courses may take longer. At schools such as UMass Amherst, Boston University, and Northeastern, course planning and credit loads can shape the overall timeline.

Massachusetts graduation data show an average graduation rate of 53.47%, so completing a degree is not guaranteed. At the top 10% of schools, the average rises to 72%. Reported averages are 49% for men and 57.27% for women. Rates offer perspective, but your outcome depends on persistence, finances, and support.

Students can make progress faster by:

• Using AP, IB, or community-college credits that their Massachusetts college accepts toward degree requirements.
• Taking summer courses or heavier approved course loads, while checking prerequisites and financial-aid rules.
• Choosing an accelerated or year-round program and meeting an advisor early to map each semester strategically.

Salary

After graduating from college in Massachusetts, the median alumni salary is $50,240. At schools in the top 10%, the median is about $59,002 - a promising benchmark as you consider where to study and what opportunities your degree could open up.

• Median alumni salary: $50,240
• Median alumni salary at schools in the top 10%: approximately $59,002

These figures are broad benchmarks, not salary guarantees for a particular college or major. If you're weighing options such as UMass Amherst, Boston University, Northeastern, or Harvard, remember that earnings can vary with your field, experience, and career path.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Massachusetts?

Harvard University is often considered the most prestigious college in Massachusetts, thanks to its long history, global reputation, and influential alumni. That said, prestige depends on what you value: MIT is just as renowned, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Both offer exceptional opportunities, so the best fit comes down to your interests and goals.

Which city in Massachusetts has the best public schools?

There isn't one definitive answer, since school rankings depend on factors such as academic results, student support, and available programs. Newton is a strong candidate: its public schools are widely regarded as excellent, and the city offers a range of learning environments. Comparing individual schools and districts can help you find the right match for your family.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Public Colleges Ranking in Massachusetts Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Amherst, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is the state's flagship public research university, offering a broad campus experience in western Massachusetts. It enrolls 31,318 students, with an 83% graduation rate and 60% acceptance rate. The listed total study cost is $39,683, while median alumni salary is $55,960. For Massachusetts students, Amherst combines extensive academic choices with a traditional college-town setting, though comparing aid and living expenses is important. Its completion figure may appeal to students seeking a university.

Based in Lowell, UMass Lowell is a public research university in a Merrimack Valley city, offering students an urban setting in northeastern Massachusetts. Its enrollment is 16,797; the graduation rate is 65%, and the acceptance rate is 83%. Total study cost is $35,544, with median alumni salary of $60,671. Massachusetts residents may weigh access to city internships and employers against commuting or housing needs. The salary figure is highest among five schools, while outcomes and costs vary by major and aid.

UMass Boston is a public university on Boston Harbor, giving students a city-campus experience and proximity to employers, cultural institutions, and transit. It enrolls 15,560 students, with a 49% graduation rate and an 84% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $37,495, and median alumni salary is $56,498. For Massachusetts students, Boston offers abundant internship possibilities, but housing and everyday expenses deserve careful budgeting. The university's access-oriented admissions profile may interest applicants seeking an urban education and diverse academic community.

Located in Dartmouth near the South Coast, UMass Dartmouth is a public university with a campus-based experience in southeastern Massachusetts. It serves 7,908 students; 52% graduate, and its acceptance rate is 91%. The total study cost is $31,852, and median alumni salary is $55,116. Students from Massachusetts may find the region appealing for a quieter setting near coastal communities, while considering transportation and program availability. Its high acceptance rate can make it worth exploring for applicants comparing public university options.

Westfield State University is a public institution in Westfield, offering a smaller-campus atmosphere in western Massachusetts. Its 4,588 students are served alongside a 54% graduation rate and an 81% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $7,050, the lowest in this group, while median alumni salary is $46,198. For Massachusetts residents, Westfield may merit a look for affordability and a smaller setting. Compare financial aid, commuting, housing, and intended-program offerings before deciding whether its campus and outcomes fit your goals.