Most
Affordable Colleges in Delaware in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Delaware offers preparation for managing organizations and launching careers across industries. Typical coursework includes accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Graduates often pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, human resources specialist, operations manager, or financial associate. Popular Delaware options include the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, Wilmington University, and Goldey-Beacom College. Programs may offer internships and concentrations that connect classroom learning with regional employers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Delaware offers coursework in research methods, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, statistics, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills in assessment, communication, and understanding human behavior through classes and hands-on experiences. Popular options include the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Wilmington University. Graduates may pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, research assistant, or human resources specialist.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Delaware offers training in programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, operating systems, and artificial intelligence. Students build problem-solving skills through projects, labs, and internships. Popular in-state choices include the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Wilmington University, each offering pathways in computing and related fields. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, web developers, systems analysts, database administrators, cybersecurity analysts, or IT consultants. Employers span technology, healthcare, finance, and government.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Delaware typically combines counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Programs may prepare students for school or clinical mental health settings, depending on degree and licensure requirements. Graduates commonly pursue work as school counselors, licensed professional counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or behavioral health specialists. Delaware options include the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Wilmington University, which offer relevant counseling programs.

Nursing

Nursing students in Delaware build clinical skills and knowledge through classroom study and supervised practice. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child health, mental health, and community nursing. Programs combine labs and clinical placements in hospitals and community settings. Popular in-state options include the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, Wilmington University, and Delaware Technical Community College. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, or public health.

Best Colleges in Delaware Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 14,257.5, compared with 29,102.0 at schools in the top 10% - more than twice as high.
• Financial aid reaches an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 67.67% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.67%. Schools receive an average of 16,476 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 33,685. The median number of male applicants is 3,060, compared with 5,385 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,248 and 29, respectively.
• Average enrollment is 9,557.33 students, with averages of 780 enrolled men and 1,192.33 enrolled 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, available degree levels, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The overall figures and top-10% figures differ substantially in cost and graduation rate, so consider how each school's actual costs, aid, and outcomes fit your circumstances and goals.

How much does studying at a college in Delaware cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Delaware is $17,501.17. This figure gives you a practical starting point for comparing colleges, but actual bills vary by school, program, housing choice, and financial aid.

The supplied averages also list tuition and fees at $13,000.50, room and board at $14,381.83, and books and supplies at $1,494.17. Since these are separate reported averages, use them as planning benchmarks rather than assuming every student pays each amount. At the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, or Wilmington University, compare the full cost of attendance - not tuition alone - before choosing.

• Ask colleges about grants, scholarships, and payment plans; aid can make a degree feel more achievable.
• Check whether your program requires extra materials, lab fees, or commuting, since those expenses can change your budget.
• Living at home, sharing housing, or buying used books may help keep costs manageable while you work toward your goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Delaware?

At a Delaware college, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full time study, while an associate degree takes about two. Actual timing depends on your program, course availability, transfer credits, and whether you study part time. At the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, or Wilmington University, check your degree map early and meet an adviser so required classes fit your schedule.

You may finish sooner by transferring eligible credits, taking summer or winter courses, using approved exams for credit, or choosing an accelerated or year-round schedule. Delaware Technical Community College can also be a starting point: ask how completed credits transfer into a bachelor's program. Before enrolling, confirm costs, course prerequisites, and whether faster pacing is manageable alongside work and family.

Across Delaware, the overall average graduation rate - a snapshot of students who complete degrees - is 43.8%; it is 71.4% among the top 10% of schools, 37.8% for men, and 48.6% for women.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Delaware can expect a median alumni salary of about $52,696. For graduates of top 10% schools, the median is about $58,125 - a promising benchmark as you consider studying at institutions such as the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, or Wilmington University.

Your own earnings may be higher or lower depending on your field, experience, and career path. Comparing programs at Delaware colleges can help you find a degree that fits your interests and earning goals.

People also ask

What college in Delaware has the lowest tuition?

For Delaware residents, Delaware Technical Community College is generally the lowest-cost option among the state's colleges. Its community-college tuition is charged by credit, so your total depends on how many classes you take, along with fees and other expenses. Check the current rate and your program's costs before enrolling, since charges can change.

What college in Delaware has the lowest GPA requirement?

Delaware Technical Community College is a strong option if you're concerned about your high-school GPA: it has an open-admission policy and generally does not set a minimum GPA for admission. Some programs may have additional prerequisites or selective-entry requirements, though, so check the rules for your intended program before applying.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Delaware Ranking in 2026-2027

For Delaware students seeking a broad university experience, the University of Delaware combines the largest enrollment in this group, at 23,673, with an 81% graduation rate. Its 71% acceptance rate suggests a more selective option than several local alternatives. Reported total study cost is $39,190, while median alumni salary is $54,209. Located in Delaware, it offers students a traditional campus-based setting and a wide academic community for pursuing a degree close to home and exploring different fields across varied disciplines.

Delaware State University gives Delaware students a public university option with 5,327 enrolled students. Its 47% acceptance rate is the lowest among the schools listed, while its graduation rate is 39%. The reported total cost is $19,014, and median alumni salary is $43,278. For a prospective student weighing affordability and outcomes, these figures offer comparison points alongside the University of Delaware and other colleges in the state. The university provides a Delaware-based setting for earning a degree and building connections.

Delaware Technical Community College-Terry is a community-college choice for Delaware residents seeking a lower-cost route to higher education. It enrolls 13,337 students, reports a 22% graduation rate, and lists total study costs of $5,718, the lowest figure among these five schools. Acceptance-rate data are unavailable, so applicants should contact the college for current admissions details. Median alumni salary is $51,182. Its practical, career-oriented community-college setting may suit students comparing local options and planning an affordable path toward a degree locally.

Goldey-Beacom College is a smaller Delaware institution, enrolling 1,073 students, which may appeal to learners who prefer a compact college community. Its reported acceptance rate is 85%, the highest among the five listed schools, and its graduation rate is 57%. Total study cost is $14,790, while median alumni salary is $44,469. For students comparing in-state degree options, these figures provide a snapshot of cost and outcomes; prospective applicants can also consider whether the college's setting and programs fit their goals.

Wilmington University serves a substantial Delaware student population, with 13,746 enrolled, and reports the highest median alumni salary among these five schools at $59,743. Its graduation rate is 20%, while acceptance-rate information is not available in the supplied data. The listed total cost of studying is $12,570. For Delaware residents seeking a degree, the university is one local option to compare by program, schedule, and overall fit; applicants should verify current costs and admissions requirements directly with the institution carefully.