Best
Colleges in Delaware in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Delaware prepares students to manage organizations, analyze markets, and make sound financial decisions. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, management, business law, finance, human resources, and data analytics. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as operations coordinator, marketing specialist, human resources assistant, sales representative, or financial analyst. Popular Delaware options include the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, Wilmington University, and Delaware Technical Community College, offering programs suited to varied career goals.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Delaware offers pathways through undergraduate programs at the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Wilmington University. Students typically study research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, personality, and abnormal psychology. Coursework often combines classroom learning with labs, internships, or community experience. Graduates with a bachelor's degree may pursue roles in human services, case management, behavioral health support, research assistance, or human resources. Clinical and counseling positions generally require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Delaware combines programming, mathematics, and problem-solving. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular choices include University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Wilmington University, which offer computing programs. Graduates work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or web developers. Internships and projects help students build experience, while Delaware's universities and employers provide opportunities to connect learning with technology needs across industries.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Delaware typically combines psychology, counseling theory, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural practice, group counseling, and supervised fieldwork. Students may specialize in clinical mental health, school, or addictions counseling. Delaware options include the University of Delaware, Wilmington University, and Delaware State University, though degrees and concentrations vary. Graduates commonly pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, behavioral-health clinicians, or case managers, subject to degree requirements, supervised experience, and state licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Delaware offers classroom and clinical experience in hospitals and settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and maternal, pediatric, and mental-health nursing. Programs are available at the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, Wilmington University, and Delaware Technical Community College. Graduates work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, and public-health agencies; depending on degree level and licensure, they may pursue leadership or advanced-practice roles.

Best Colleges in Delaware Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 14,257.5, compared with 29,102.0 at schools in the top 10% - 14,844.5 higher at top-performing schools.
• Average financial aid coverage is 100.0% overall, compared with 67.67% at top 10% schools, a difference of 32.33 percentage points.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.67%. Schools receive an average of 16,476 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 33,685 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 3,060 men and 5,385 women, 2,325 more women than men.
• Average test scores are 1,248 on the SAT and 29 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 9,557.33. Average enrollment is 780 men and 1,192.33 women.
• The average graduation rate is 43.8%, compared with 71.4% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 29.0% for men and 44.0% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees and six offer bachelor's degrees; five offer master's degrees and four offer doctor's degrees.
• There are six coeducational schools, no schools for men, and no schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, enrollment, and program offerings. Graduation rates may also be useful to consider, particularly because the overall average is lower than the top 10% average and the median graduation rates differ for men and women.

How much does studying at a college in Delaware cost?

The average total cost of studying in Delaware is about $17,501.17, best treated as an annual planning estimate rather than the full price of completing a degree. The reported average for tuition and fees is $13,000.50; books and supplies average $1,494.17. Room and board are reported at $14,381.83, so campus housing and meal choices can make a major difference to your budget.

At the University of Delaware in Newark, Delaware State University in Dover, and Wilmington University, check each campus's current tuition, fees, housing, meal plans, and financial-aid options before deciding; costs vary by program and living arrangement. Because the listed category averages do not add up to the reported total, treat them as separate benchmarks rather than a single bill. Starting with the $17,501.17 estimate, then requesting a personalized net-price estimate and exploring grants, scholarships, and commuting can make a Delaware degree feel more achievable and keep planning manageable for you.

How long does it take to finish college in Delaware?

A bachelor's degree usually takes four years of full-time study in Delaware, while an associate degree at Delaware Technical Community College commonly takes two. A master's program often adds one to two years. At the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, or Wilmington University, your timeline depends on your major, course availability, and enrollment status.

How many students finish? Delaware colleges' average graduation rate is 43.8%, compared with 71.4% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 37.8% for men and 48.6% for women. These figures show that earning a degree takes persistence, but planning and support can make the goal feel more manageable.

Finish sooner by earning AP or dual-enrollment credit, transferring eligible courses, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated schedule. Ask advisers which credits transfer and when required courses run. A clear plan can save time and money and bring graduation closer, with confidence and less stress.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Delaware earn a median alumni salary of about $52,696. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salaries, the median is about $58,125 - a promising benchmark as you consider options such as the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, or Wilmington University.

Your own earnings can vary depending on your field, experience, and the role you pursue, so use these figures as a starting point rather than a guarantee. They offer a helpful way to think about the potential payoff of earning a degree while studying close to home in Delaware.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Delaware?

By overall student enrollment, the three largest are generally the University of Delaware, Wilmington University, and Delaware Technical Community College. Enrollment totals can vary by year and by whether part-time, online, and multi-campus students are counted. For Delaware students, that range means options from a large research university to flexible programs and hands-on community-college pathways.

How many colleges are there in Delaware?

Delaware is commonly counted as having about 12 colleges and universities. The exact total depends on what is included: some lists count only degree-granting institutions, while others include specialized schools or count campuses separately. For planning, it's helpful to compare individual programs and locations, especially because Delaware Tech operates across multiple campuses.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges Ranking in Delaware Ranking in 2026-2027

For Delaware students, the University of Delaware offers a large campus experience with 23,673 enrolled students. As the state's flagship public research university, it provides broad academic options and research opportunities. Its 81% graduation rate and 71% acceptance rate offer useful context for applicants. Total study cost is $39,190, while median alumni salary is $54,209. For students seeking a comprehensive university setting in Delaware, these figures help balance investment, campus scale, and longer-term career possibilities when comparing local choices.

Delaware State University is a public historically Black university in Dover, giving Delaware students access to a close-knit campus with a distinct institutional heritage. It enrolls 5,327 students; its 39% graduation rate and 47% acceptance rate can help applicants assess fit and outcomes. Total cost is $19,014, and median alumni salary is $43,278. For those pursuing a degree in Delaware, the smaller enrollment and lower listed cost may appeal, while students should explore programs, support services, and campus life before applying.

Goldey-Beacom College is a small private college in Wilmington, Delaware, with an enrollment of 1,073. Its compact scale may suit students who prefer a more personal campus environment, and its business-oriented history gives it a distinct professional character. The school's 57% graduation rate and 85% acceptance rate offer admissions context. Total cost is $14,790, and median alumni salary is $44,469. Delaware residents comparing nearby degree options can weigh affordability and class environment alongside available majors, internships, and career preparation opportunities.

Wilmington University is a private institution serving students across Delaware through multiple locations and flexible study options. Its enrollment is 13,746, making it a sizable choice for students seeking a broad local university community. The graduation rate is 20%; acceptance data is unavailable. Total cost is $12,570, while median alumni salary is $59,743. For Delaware-based learners, its in-state presence may support studying near home; compare degree formats, program offerings, and student services to determine whether it fits your goals well.

Delaware Technical Community College-Terry is part of the state's public community college system, offering an accessible starting point for Delaware students seeking career-focused training or a pathway toward further study. The Terry campus enrolls 13,337 students. Its graduation rate is 22%, and acceptance data is unavailable. Listed total cost is $5,718, the lowest among these five schools; median alumni salary is $51,182. For residents, affordable coursework may make it practical to begin a degree journey close to home in Delaware.