Best
Colleges in Massachusetts in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Massachusetts offers preparation for leadership and organizational roles across industries. Programs typically cover accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, statistics, and operations, often combining coursework with internships or projects. Graduates may pursue careers as business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial associates, operations managers, or entrepreneurs. Popular options include the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Boston University, Northeastern University, and Bentley University, whose business schools offer undergraduate and graduate programs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Massachusetts offers access to research-focused universities and clinical settings. Programs commonly cover developmental psychology, cognition, abnormal psychology, statistics, research methods, and social behavior. Students may gain experience through labs, internships, or community placements. Popular choices include Harvard University, Boston University, Northeastern University, University of Massachusetts Amherst, and Clark University. Graduates often pursue roles in human services, behavioral health, recruiting, case management, research assistance, or education; clinical psychologist careers require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Massachusetts offers access to universities and a technology sector. Typical courses include programming languages, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Popular choices include the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Northeastern University, Boston University, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Graduates often pursue roles as software developers, data scientists, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, or IT consultants, with opportunities in startups, research, and companies.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Massachusetts combines theory, skills, supervised fieldwork, and preparation for licensure. Typical courses include counseling theories, human development, ethics, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, and practicum or internship. Graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, case managers, or college-advising professionals, depending on their degree and credentials. Massachusetts options include Boston University, Northeastern University, UMass Boston, Lesley University, and William James College, which offer counseling and counselor-education programs.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Massachusetts combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and nursing fundamentals, followed by medical-surgical, pediatric, psychiatric, and maternal health nursing. Graduates may pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, schools, and long-term care facilities after meeting licensure requirements. Popular local colleges include the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Boston College, Northeastern University, and MGH Institute of Health Professions.

Best Colleges in Massachusetts Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $41,984 overall, compared with $66,692 at schools in the top 10%, making cost an important factor to compare.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid overall, while the average among top 10% schools is 61.2%.
• The average acceptance rate is 61.2%. Schools receive an average of 11,416.22 applicants, compared with 26,141.0 applicants on average at top 10% schools.
• The median number of male applicants is 2,132.0, while the median number of female applicants is 3,660.5.
• Average test scores are 1,266.17 on the SAT and 28.95 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,150.49. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 379.2 and 449.09, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 65.99%, compared with 92.8% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 61.0% for men and 71.0% for women.
• There are 27 institutions offering associate's degrees, 76 offering bachelor's degrees, 71 offering master's degrees, and 28 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 68 coeducational schools, while the number of schools for men and the number of schools for women are both 0.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, test-score averages, and graduation rates. Also consider the degree options and whether the school's enrollment and coeducational profile fit your preferences.

How much does studying at a college in Massachusetts cost?

The average total cost of studying in Massachusetts is $40,255.34. The reported average tuition and fees are $42,078.23, while average room and board cost $17,912.28 and books and supplies average $1,181.08. These figures do not add up to the reported total, so treat each as a separate reference point rather than combining them into a personal budget.

Your actual expenses depend on the college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. At well-known schools such as Harvard University, MIT, UMass Amherst, and Boston University, costs can differ substantially; the statewide averages do not represent any one campus's bill. If you are studying close to home, commuting may reduce housing costs, while grants, scholarships, and work-study can help make a degree more affordable. Massachusetts offers many educational paths, so compare each school's published cost of attendance and aid package. A clear budget can make pursuing your degree feel manageable and exciting.

How long does it take to finish college in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Your timeline can vary with your major, course load, transfer credits, and whether you study part-time; programs at UMass Amherst, Boston University, and Northeastern University may have distinct requirements. The state's average graduation rate is 65.99%, so completion is achievable, but planning and support matter. The average is 92.8% among the top 10% of schools; reported averages are 61.91% for men and 68.42% for women.

• Ask whether AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits can count toward your degree, and transfer eligible coursework from a Massachusetts community college.
• Summer classes, heavier course loads, and accelerated or year-round programs may also shorten the schedule, if manageable.
• Meet with an adviser early to map prerequisites and protect your progress; finishing sooner can feel motivating and save time while keeping your goals realistic and manageable.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Massachusetts earn a median alumni salary of about $51,664. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median rises to about $80,429 - an encouraging indication of the earning potential a degree can offer.

These figures are medians, not guaranteed starting salaries. What you earn after graduating can vary with your field, experience, and employer. Massachusetts students attend a wide range of institutions, including UMass Amherst, Northeastern University, Boston University, Harvard University, and MIT, with different programs and career paths to explore.

• Statewide median alumni salary: about $51,664
• Median alumni salary for graduates of top 10% schools: about $80,429

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Massachusetts?

By total student enrollment, three of Massachusetts's largest institutions are Northeastern University, Boston University, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Recent enrollment totals put them at roughly 38,000, 37,000, and 32,000 students, respectively. Exact figures can vary by year and by whether an institution counts students studying at additional campuses.

How many colleges are there in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts has about 114 colleges and universities, though the exact count depends on which institutions are included - for example, whether the count covers only degree-granting schools or also smaller specialized institutions. For students exploring options close to home, that broad selection is encouraging: it includes public universities, community colleges, and private schools.

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

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a Cambridge research university known for science, engineering, and entrepreneurship. For a Massachusetts student, its location offers access to Boston-area internships and cultural life. MIT enrolls 11,816 students, and its 96% graduation rate and 5% acceptance rate reflect strong outcomes and selectivity. Total study cost is $61,990, while median alumni salary is $110,724. Consider demanding academics and costs alongside exceptional reported graduate earnings when deciding whether this Cambridge campus suits your goals and budget.

Harvard University, based in Cambridge, is a historic institution with strengths across liberal arts, law, medicine, and research. Massachusetts residents can study near Boston's employers, museums, and public transit, while benefiting from a globally recognized academic community. Enrollment is 11,365; its graduation rate is 98%, and acceptance rate is 4%. The total cost of studying is $56,550, with median alumni salary of $66,163. Compare financial aid and personal program costs, since these figures describe overall costs and typical alumni earnings.

Boston University (BU) is a large private research university in Boston, offering a lively urban campus and broad academic programs. Massachusetts students can access hospitals, companies, and cultural venues across the city, with transit connecting neighborhoods. BU enrolls 36,977 students; its graduation rate is 89% and acceptance rate is 11%. Total study cost is $66,670, and median alumni salary is $55,152. Its larger student body may suit those seeking extensive campus activity, while prospective students should weigh expenses and outcomes.

Tufts University is a private research university headquartered in Medford and Somerville, with a reputation for interdisciplinary study and international engagement. Its Massachusetts setting combines quieter residential neighborhoods with convenient access to Boston opportunities. Tufts enrolls 13,650 students, with a 94% graduation rate and 11% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $69,146, while median alumni salary is $64,890. Students considering Tufts can balance its campus feel against substantial costs, and explore academic programs, aid options, and career support.

Northeastern University is a Boston-based institution especially known for experiential learning and cooperative education, integrating classroom study with work placements. For Massachusetts students, this can mean professional experience in the region alongside city campus life. Enrollment totals 38,403 students; graduation rate is 91%, and acceptance rate is 5%. Total study cost is $64,990, while median alumni salary is $80,450. Its large student community and career-focused approach may appeal to ambitious learners, but compare program costs and co-op opportunities carefully before enrolling.