Best
Colleges in New Hampshire in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in New Hampshire combines management theory with skills in accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business law, and organizational behavior. Students complete projects in entrepreneurship, data analysis, and strategic planning. Popular options include the University of New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire University, Plymouth State University, and Keene State College. Graduates may pursue roles as marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial analysts, sales representatives, operations supervisors, or business consultants. Internships and networking help launch careers.

Psychology

Studying psychology in New Hampshire offers coursework in developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, alongside statistics and research methods. Students explore behavior, mental health, cognition, and lifespan development through classes and research. Popular options include the University of New Hampshire, Dartmouth College, Southern New Hampshire University, Plymouth State University, and Keene State College. Graduates with a bachelor's degree commonly pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, research assistant, or human resources specialist.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in New Hampshire combines programming and theory with opportunities to build practical skills. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, operating systems, and artificial intelligence. Students may complete projects or internships. Popular options include Dartmouth College, the University of New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire University, Plymouth State University, and Keene State College. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT consultants.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in New Hampshire combines classroom learning with supervised practice. Students typically study counseling theories, ethics, human development, group counseling, assessment, multicultural practice, and crisis intervention, followed by field placements. Popular in-state options include the University of New Hampshire, Plymouth State University, Rivier University, and Antioch University New England in Keene. Graduates may pursue roles as licensed mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, career counselors, or community agency case managers.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in New Hampshire combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and maternal-child, mental, and community health nursing. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, or care coordinators, depending on degree and licensure. Popular options include the University of New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire University, Rivier University, and NHTI in Concord.

Best Colleges in New Hampshire Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 30,000.0, compared with 46,287.2 at schools in the top 10%, so students weighing cost against school ranking should consider this substantial difference.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 79.82% at top 10% schools. These figures describe different averages and do not indicate how much aid individual students receive.
• The average acceptance rate is 79.82%. Schools receive an average of 11,250.45 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 31,656.0 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 1,881.0 for men and 2,542.0 for women.
• Average test scores are 1,239.0 on the SAT and 28.5 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 16,931.92. The reported averages are 808.36 enrolled men and 1,277.64 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 57.54%, compared with 79.2% at schools in the top 10%. Median graduation rates are 50.0% for men and 58.0% for women.
• There are 9 institutions offering associate's degrees, 13 offering bachelor's degrees, 14 offering master's degrees, and 7 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 12 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When selecting a college, potential students should compare total cost and financial aid availability with their own budgets, consider applicant volume and acceptance rate when assessing admissions, and weigh program offerings and test scores against their goals. Graduation rates may also help students compare outcomes, while the differences between overall and top 10% figures offer context rather than a guarantee about any individual school.

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

The average total cost of studying for a degree in New Hampshire is $31,614.77. This statewide figure is a helpful starting point, but your actual expenses will depend on your college, program, housing choices, and financial aid. Comparing options can make budgeting feel more manageable and help you find a school that fits your goals.

• Average tuition and fees: $30,400.77
• Average room and board: $15,689.92
• Average books and supplies: $1,200.45

These are separate reported averages, so don't add them together as though they make up the average total cost. If you're considering the University of New Hampshire in Durham, Dartmouth College in Hanover, Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester, or Plymouth State University, check each institution's current cost estimate and financial aid options. Comparing net costs - not just tuition - can give you a clearer picture of what you may pay. Exploring New Hampshire's campus and program choices is an exciting first step toward finding a degree path that works for you.

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

In New Hampshire, a bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study, while an associate degree typically takes two. At the University of New Hampshire, Dartmouth College, or Southern New Hampshire University, your timeline may vary by major, course availability, and whether you study part-time.

The average graduation rate is 57.54%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 79.2%. Rates are 53.31% for men and 60.0% for women, offering a useful picture of completion outcomes while showing that persistence and support matter.

To shorten your path, consider:

• Earn credit through AP exams or dual enrollment accepted by your college.
• Transfer previously earned credits after checking equivalencies and residency rules.
• Take summer courses or heavier semester loads if manageable.
• Choose an accelerated program or online courses with flexible scheduling.

Confirm transfer policies and map requirements with an adviser early to build your graduation plan with confidence.

Salary

After graduating from a college or university in New Hampshire, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $52,636. Graduates of schools in the top 10% have a median alumni salary of about $66,893, offering an encouraging benchmark as you plan your education and career.

Your actual earnings will depend on your field, experience, and where you work. New Hampshire students can explore programs at institutions such as the University of New Hampshire, Dartmouth College, and Southern New Hampshire University, then compare career paths and opportunities in the state and nearby New England communities.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in New Hampshire?

By total enrollment, including online students, the three largest are Southern New Hampshire University, the University of New Hampshire, and Dartmouth College. SNHU is by far the largest, with well over 100,000 students, while UNH enrolls around 14,000 and Dartmouth around 7,000. Counts vary by year, and SNHU's total includes many students studying remotely.

How many colleges are there in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire has about 20 colleges and universities, though the exact count depends on whether branch campuses and individual community colleges are counted separately. The Community College System of New Hampshire alone includes seven colleges. For a prospective student, that means a range of options - from small residential campuses to community colleges and large online programs.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges Ranking in New Hampshire Ranking in 2026-2027

Dartmouth College offers New Hampshire students a highly selective, residential college experience in Hanover, with an acceptance rate of 5% and 7,273 enrolled students. Its 96% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $74,383. The total study cost is $66,123, so compare financial aid and living expenses before deciding. As an Ivy League institution known for undergraduate teaching and a close-knit campus, Dartmouth may suit students seeking rigorous academics and alumni outcomes.

The University of New Hampshire is a public research university in Durham, offering New Hampshire residents a campus environment and many academic pathways. It enrolls 13,041 students, with an 88% acceptance rate and a 76% graduation rate. Its total cost is $36,170, and median alumni salary is $52,636. For an in-state student, confirm how residency affects tuition and aid, since the source figure may not reflect finances. UNH may appeal to students wanting a larger university setting close to home.

Colby-Sawyer College is a small private liberal arts college in New London, offering New Hampshire students a campus option. Its 975 enrolled students make it the smallest school in this group, and its acceptance rate is 80%. The graduation rate is 57%, while median alumni salary is $50,195. At a total study cost of $18,025, it has the lowest figure among these five institutions. Students should check program offerings, aid, and personal expenses when comparing colleges close to home.

Plymouth State University is a public university in Plymouth, giving New Hampshire students a nearby choice for undergraduate study. It has 3,593 enrolled students and an 88% acceptance rate. Its graduation rate is 52%, and median alumni salary is $44,002. The total cost of studying is $22,810. As a public campus in the state's mountain region, it offers a distinct setting for students who want to remain in New Hampshire while exploring undergraduate programs and varied campus life options.

Keene State College is a public liberal arts college in Keene, giving New Hampshire students a smaller-campus alternative in the southwestern part of the state. It enrolls 2,794 students and admits 90% of applicants. The graduation rate is 60%, and median alumni salary is $45,561. Its total study cost is $23,810. Students comparing nearby options can weigh this cost against their budget, intended major, and support needs; Keene State may fit those seeking a close-knit public college campus experience.