Best
Value Colleges in Salt Lake City in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Salt Lake City, UT, develops skills in management, finance, marketing, accounting, economics, and business communication. Typical coursework also covers organizational behavior, operations, entrepreneurship, and data analysis. Popular options include the University of Utah, Westminster University, and Salt Lake Community College, which offer business-related study at levels. Graduates pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, sales representative, business analyst, operations supervisor, or account manager across companies, nonprofits, and agencies.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Salt Lake City, Utah, offers coursework in statistics, research methods, developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students can pursue programs at the University of Utah or Westminster University, with associate-level options at Salt Lake Community College. Depending on degree level and experience, graduates may work as case managers, human resources specialists, behavioral health technicians, research assistants, or support workers. Advanced clinical practice typically requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Salt Lake City, Utah, combines programming, mathematics, and practical problem-solving. At the University of Utah, Westminster University, and Salt Lake Community College, students can pursue computer science degrees or related pathways. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or network administrators across technology companies, healthcare, finance, government, and local startups alike.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Salt Lake City, Utah, lets students build skills for supporting people through emotional, behavioral, and relationship challenges. Coursework commonly includes counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, and techniques such as group counseling. Popular local options include the University of Utah and Westminster University. Graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, or case managers, depending on degree level, licensure, and employer requirements in Utah.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Salt Lake City, UT, provides classroom instruction and clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, ethics, and patient care across the lifespan. Popular options include the University of Utah College of Nursing and Westminster University. Graduates pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, public health agencies, or various units such as pediatrics and critical care.

Best Colleges in Salt Lake City, UT Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 16,840.0, compared with 36,354.5 at schools in the top 10%, so the top 10% figure is substantially higher.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 99.4% of students overall, versus 81.5% at top 10% schools, meaning aid is more common across the full group.
• The average acceptance rate is 81.5%, and institutions receive an average of 7,737.5 applicants; top 10% schools average 19,664.6 applicants. The median numbers of male and female applicants are similar: 1,008.5 and 1,014.0, respectively.
• Average test scores are 1,267.5 for the SAT and 26.5 for the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 37,711.71. Average enrollment is 1,082.0 men and 771.75 women.
• The average graduation rate is 48.86%, compared with 64.4% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 52.0% for men and 51.0% for women.
• Four institutions offer associate's degrees, seven offer bachelor's degrees, six offer master's degrees, and one offers a doctor's degree.
• There are six coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare study costs and financial aid together, and weigh admissions selectivity, applicant volume, test scores, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes against your priorities. The higher average graduation rate and applicant volume at top 10% schools may be relevant, but their median study cost is also higher and their average financial-aid coverage is lower.

How much does studying at a college in Salt Lake City, UT cost?

For a student in Salt Lake City, the average reported total cost of studying is $19,742.17, a planning benchmark. For local comparisons, consider the University of Utah, Salt Lake Community College, and Westminster University. Your actual bill will depend on the school, program, residency status, and whether you live at home or on campus. The reported cost categories are:

• Tuition and fees average $17,296.71.
• Room and board average $13,046.83.
• Books and supplies average $797.00.

These figures may reflect different cost measures, so do not add them together as though they form one matched bill. Ask each college for its current cost-of-attendance estimate and explore scholarships, grants, and payment plans. Salt Lake City offers choices ranging from community-college pathways to four-year study, which can make it easier to find a route that fits both your goals and finances. Check financial-aid eligibility and compare net costs before enrolling carefully.

How long does it take to finish college in Salt Lake City, UT?

In Salt Lake City, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at Salt Lake Community College usually takes about two. Many students at the University of Utah or Westminster University follow the four-year timeline, though major requirements, work, family responsibilities, and course availability can extend it.

Graduation figures show that completing a degree is not automatic: Salt Lake City-area schools average a 48.86% graduation rate, while the top 10% average 64.4%. The average rate is 45.5% for men and 49.43% for women, underscoring the value of planning and steady advising support.

You may finish sooner by transferring eligible credits, taking summer courses, choosing accelerated terms, or using prior-learning assessments when accepted. Discuss a degree map with an adviser at your Salt Lake City campus; combining manageable course loads with online or evening classes can make faster progress feel realistic without sacrificing your well-being.

Salary

Graduates in Salt Lake City can expect a median alumni salary of about $51,338. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $76,483. These figures offer a useful benchmark as you compare options such as the University of Utah, Salt Lake Community College, and Westminster University; your own earnings will depend on your degree, career path, experience, and employer.

• Typical benchmark: About $51,338 in median alumni salary.
• Higher-earning benchmark: About $76,483 in median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools.
• What to consider: Compare programs, internship opportunities, and likely careers in Salt Lake City alongside salary figures to find a path that feels both rewarding and financially promising.

People also ask

How many universities are there in Salt Lake City?

Using "university" in the formal sense and counting institutions located within Salt Lake City, there are two: the University of Utah and Westminster University. The total can vary if you include colleges, community colleges, or schools in nearby cities, so checking the institution's location is helpful when comparing local options.

What is the largest university in Salt Lake City?

The University of Utah is Salt Lake City's largest university by student enrollment. Its size brings a wide range of academic programs, research opportunities, and campus activities, which can make it an exciting choice for students who want a large-university experience while living in the city.

How many universities are there in Salt Lake City?

The answer is still two when counting universities within the city itself: the University of Utah and Westminster University. If you are exploring all local higher-education choices, you will find additional colleges and specialized schools in Salt Lake City and the surrounding area, beyond those two universities.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in Salt Lake City, UT Ranking in 2026-2027

The University of Utah is a large public research university based in Salt Lake City, making it an option for students who want to study close to home. It enrolls 38,261 students, has a 65% graduation rate and an 86% acceptance rate. The reported total study cost is $29,701, while median alumni salary is $52,910. Its broad academic offerings and urban campus provide access to city life, local employers, and Utah's outdoor recreation during college years for Salt Lake residents.

Westminster University, a private university in Salt Lake City, offers a smaller campus setting for students who prefer close faculty contact and a city-based college experience. It enrolls 1,168 students, reports a 64% graduation rate and a 67% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $43,008, and median alumni salary is $49,765. For someone living in Salt Lake City, attending locally can reduce relocation needs while providing access to the region's cultural venues, internships, and outdoor activities alongside undergraduate study.

Midwives College of Utah is a specialized institution focused on midwifery education, giving students a focused alternative to universities. It enrolls 239 students, with a 40% graduation rate and an 86% acceptance rate. The reported total cost of study is $8,060, and median alumni salary is $44,937. For a Salt Lake City resident drawn to maternal and reproductive health, its Utah connection may be appealing; check current instructional format and clinical-placement locations before deciding whether daily study fits local plans.

Ensign College is a career-oriented college in downtown Salt Lake City, offering a city-based choice for students seeking programs and proximity to the business district. It enrolls 7,594 students and has a 43% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. Its total study cost is $4,004, and median alumni salary is $42,960. For Salt Lake City residents, the downtown setting can make commuting and connecting with employers convenient, though students should confirm program details, fees, and financial-aid eligibility before enrolling.

Western Governors University is a nonprofit online university headquartered in Salt Lake City, making it locally connected while allowing students to study remotely. It enrolls 210,208 students and reports a 46% graduation rate; acceptance-rate data are unavailable. Total study cost is $8,180, and median alumni salary is $74,883. For a Salt Lake City student balancing work or family, its online format may offer flexibility without a commute, but confirm program pacing, support services, and the costs applicable to your degree.