Most
Popular Colleges in New Hampshire in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in New Hampshire builds skills in management, accounting, marketing, finance, economics, and business analytics. Programs often include coursework in organizational behavior, entrepreneurship, operations, and business law. Graduates may pursue roles as management trainees, marketing coordinators, financial analysts, human resources specialists, or business owners. Popular New Hampshire options include the University of New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire University, Plymouth State University, and Keene State College. Many programs offer internships and flexible learning formats.

Psychology

Studying psychology in New Hampshire offers coursework in developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, alongside research methods, statistics, and counseling foundations. Students explore human behavior through labs and internships. Options include the University of New Hampshire, Dartmouth College, Southern New Hampshire University, Plymouth State University, and Keene State College. Graduates pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, or social services coordinator; clinical practice often requires graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in New Hampshire combines theory with practical skills through courses such as programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students can explore programs at Dartmouth College, the University of New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire University, and Keene State College. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or database administrators. Internships and technology employers can help students connect coursework to workplace opportunities.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in New Hampshire combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, group counseling, and multicultural practice. Students typically complete supervised internships or clinical placements. Programs at the University of New Hampshire, Plymouth State University, Keene State College, Rivier University, and Antioch University New England offer study options. Graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance-use counselors, career counselors, or case managers, depending on degree level, licensure, and experience.

Nursing

New Hampshire nursing programs combine classroom study, skills labs, and clinical placements. Typical courses include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, adult care, pediatrics, and community health. Students develop patient-care, communication, and clinical reasoning skills. Popular in-state colleges offering nursing education include the University of New Hampshire, Plymouth State University, Keene State College, and Nashua Community College. Graduates commonly become registered nurses, working in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or public health agencies statewide.

Best Colleges in New Hampshire Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 35,730, compared with 47,400 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% more expensive by this measure.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100% of students overall, compared with 79.82% at top 10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 79.82%.
• Schools receive an average of 11,250.45 applicants; the average among top 10% schools is 31,656. Median applicant counts are 1,881 for men and 2,542 for women.
• The average SAT score is 1,239 and the average ACT score is 28.5. The average number of enrolled students is 18,462.36; reported averages for enrolled men and women are 808.36 and 1,277.64, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 59.55%, compared with 80% at top 10% schools. Median graduation rates are 54% for men and 58% for women.
• Seven institutions offer associate's degrees, 11 offer bachelor's degrees, 11 offer master's degrees, and six offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 11 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial-aid availability, and consider how each school's admissions figures, test-score averages, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes align with your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in New Hampshire cost?

For a New Hampshire student, the average total cost of studying is $33,808.73. Treat this as a yearly planning estimate, rather than the full price of a multiyear degree: your total depends on your program, pace, and how many years you attend. Average tuition and fees are $32,462.36, while average room and board are $16,076.27, and books and supplies average $1,260.50.

These figures make early budgeting especially helpful: living at home, choosing campus housing, and buying used books can shape what you actually spend. If you're comparing New Hampshire colleges, consider the University of New Hampshire in Durham, Dartmouth College in Hanover, and Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester; their programs and living arrangements differ. Ask each school for a current cost estimate based on your residency status and course load. That gives you a clearer path to a degree and helps you plan with greater confidence.

How long does it take to finish college in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, a bachelor's degree typically takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes two. Your timeline at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, Dartmouth College, or a community college depends on your major and course load. A bachelor's program normally requires about 120 credits, and full-time students often take 15 credits each semester; requirements vary by program.

Finishing sooner may be possible through:

• Taking summer or winter courses can help you complete requirements sooner, if offered and manageable alongside work or family commitments.
• Transfer credits from another accredited college, AP exams, or dual-enrollment classes may reduce the courses you still need.
• Ask advisers at UNH or Dartmouth about credit policies and course sequencing before enrolling to help you stay on track.

The average overall graduation rate across New Hampshire is 59.55%, rising to 80.0% among the top 10% of schools; rates average 57.09% for men and 61.64% for women.

Salary

College graduates in New Hampshire earn a median alumni salary of $52,636. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is $74,383, showing the potential for higher earnings after attending a particularly high-performing institution.

If you're considering schools such as the University of New Hampshire, Dartmouth College, Southern New Hampshire University, Plymouth State University, or Keene State College, keep in mind that these figures are broad benchmarks - not salary guarantees for graduates of any one school. Your earnings can vary with your field of study, experience, and career path, but these figures offer an encouraging starting point as you weigh your options in New Hampshire.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in New Hampshire?

By total enrollment, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is the state's most attended college. Recent federal data puts its enrollment at roughly 164,000 students, with most studying online. That scale makes SNHU a major option for New Hampshire residents seeking flexible schedules, though it is very different from a traditional, mostly residential campus.

What is the most popular school in New Hampshire?

"Most popular" depends on the measure, since there is no single official popularity ranking. For students looking for a traditional public university experience, the University of New Hampshire (UNH) is a natural choice: it is the state's flagship public university and has a large campus community. Its Durham campus offers a classic college setting.

What is the most famous university in New Hampshire?

Dartmouth College is generally New Hampshire's best-known university nationally. Located in Hanover, it is an Ivy League institution with a long history and a strong public profile in research and undergraduate education. For an in-state student, its name recognition is a plus, while its rural Upper Valley location offers a quieter college-town environment.

What is the hardest university to get into in New Hampshire?

Dartmouth College is generally the hardest New Hampshire university to enter, based on its very low admission rate. For the Class of 2028, it admitted about 5% of applicants. That makes admission highly competitive, even for excellent students; a thoughtful application and a balanced list of college options can help keep the process grounded.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in New Hampshire Ranking in 2026-2027

Dartmouth College is a renowned Ivy League institution in Hanover, New Hampshire, offering a residential campus and strong undergraduate focus. With 7,273 enrolled students, it reports a 96% graduation rate and a highly selective 5% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $66,123, while median alumni salary is $74,383. For an in-state student seeking an academically intensive experience, Dartmouth's close-knit community and access to New Hampshire's outdoors are notable benefits, though its cost warrants careful financial planning and aid research beforehand.

Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire, is a private Catholic liberal arts college known for its Benedictine tradition and community-centered campus life. It enrolls 2,111 students, with an 80% graduation rate and 78% acceptance rate. Total cost of studying is $47,400, and median alumni salary reaches $55,659. For New Hampshire students, the Manchester location offers access to urban internships, services, and cultural activities while retaining a smaller college atmosphere. The acceptance rate may attract applicants seeking supportive, values-oriented study.

Rivier University in Nashua, New Hampshire, is a private Catholic institution offering career-focused programs in fields such as nursing, business, and education. It serves 2,777 students, with a 52% graduation rate and an 83% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $38,078, while median alumni salary is $76,526. Its Nashua setting places students near healthcare employers and the Massachusetts border, useful for internships and commuting. For New Hampshire residents, Rivier offers a campus environment and strong alumni earnings alongside accessible admissions.

Plymouth State University in Plymouth, New Hampshire, is a public university with a campus near the White Mountains and Lakes Region. It enrolls 3,593 students, reports a 52% graduation rate and an 88% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $22,810, and median alumni salary is $44,002. Students can explore teacher education, business, health, and liberal arts options while benefiting from outdoor recreation. For New Hampshire applicants seeking a public institution at a lower listed cost, Plymouth offers a practical in-state option with small-town character and access to employers.

University of New Hampshire in Durham is the state's flagship public research university, combining a broad range of degree programs with campus traditions and access to the Seacoast region. It enrolls 13,041 students, has a 76% graduation rate and an 88% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $36,170, while median alumni salary is $52,636. For New Hampshire residents, UNH offers extensive academic choices and in-state connections, though applicants should compare net cost after aid and carefully assess campus size.