The Northeastern states are home to many excellent universities and colleges. They offer a wide range of undergraduate majors, minors, certificate programs, master’s degrees and doctoral programs for groundbreaking research. They invite students from all corners of the globe to come and study here. Most of these affordable colleges in the northeast have excellent online programs, making them truly global universities.
Here we have listed the top 50 colleges in the Northeast that are known for their affordability and quality of education. Schools have been ranked based on their average annual undergraduate tuition rates.
Top 10 – A Sneak Peek:
- Hunter College
- Naugatuck Valley Community College
- Rowan University
- Lehman College
- Central Connecticut State University
- Western Connecticut State University
- Eastern Connecticut State University
- University of the Potomac
- CUNY-York College
- The City College of New York
Featured Programs
#50 Tufts University
Medford, MA
Tufts University was founded in 1852 and has maintained its distinction as a leader in American higher education. The student-centered research university is dedicated to the creation and application of knowledge. It offers a unique combination of research and liberal arts that attracts students from all over the country. It excels at research and providing students with a personal experience which is a great status for a moderately sized university. It is one of the affordable colleges in the northeast and is committed to providing transformative experiences for students. Both faculty and students at the school thrive and enjoy the environment of creativity, curiosity, and engagement.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Hybrid
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $59,560
#49 Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
Boston College was founded in 1864 and is the first institution of higher education to operate in the city of Boston. Grounded in the Jesuit ideals of its founders, the college ranks among the nation’s foremost universities. It began as an undergraduate liberal arts college, but it soon added graduate programs and professional schools to become a premier educational institute. Today it is known as a leader in the liberal arts, scientific inquiry. Students develop personally and professionally while exploring their minds and talents to the fullest. Graduates go on to make an impact in their communities.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $59,050
#48 Amherst College
Amherst, MA
Amherst College is a private liberal arts college that has prepared students to make a difference in the world for almost two centuries. It has emphasized the importance of critical thinking and demonstrated steadfast confidence in the value of the liberal arts. Amherst’s student body is among the most diverse, and its financial aid program is among the most substantial in the nation. It is one of the affordable colleges in the northeast and offers an open curriculum, small class sizes, an excellent teacher-student ratio, and a singular focus on undergraduate education. All these ensure that students are equipped for leadership roles in an increasingly global and complex world.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Comprehensive Fee (tuition, room, and board) per year: $75,800
#47 Wellesley College
Wellesley, MA
Wellesley College is a private women’s liberal arts college known for the excellence of its education. It houses more than 50 departmental and interdepartmental majors. The college believes in the transformative power of learning and cultivating leadership. It aims to provide an excellent liberal arts education to diverse women groups who will make a difference in the world. The college and its faculty embrace the principles of freedom and rigor in scholarly inquiry and commit to high standards of personal and intellectual integrity. Students learn the importance of pursuing research, inquiry, and lifelong learning.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Hybrid
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $58,120
#46 Smith College
Northampton, MA
Smith College is a private liberal arts women’s college that was founded in 1871. It is one of the largest women’s colleges in the United States that caters to students globally. While it still caters to only women at the undergraduate level, it admits both men and women as graduate level. Grounded in the fundamentals of leadership skills, students gain the knowledge and skills to excel in a wide range of careers in one of the northeast’s most affordable colleges. They are empowered to take on new challenges, build the skills to lead a truly international life, and succeed in doing anything they choose.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $55,830
#45 College of the Holy Cross
Worcester, MA
The College of the Holy Cross is a private liberal arts college founded in 1843 by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits.) The highly selective undergraduate college is ranked among the nation’s leading four-year liberal arts colleges. It is one of the northeast’s affordable colleges and continually pursues excellence in teaching, learning, and research. The college seeks to build a diverse community of students marked by freedom and mutual respect. Essential to liberal arts education and its foundation is the critical examination of these differences, searching for meaning that lies at the heart of the intellectual life.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $55,800
#44 Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester, MA
Worcester Polytechnic Institute blends theory with practice to provide the latest science and engineering knowledge to its students. It was founded in 1865 to create a positive impact for the communities through quality education and experience. It features a flexible, rigorous program that is project-based and globally engaged. The university’s curriculum includes interdisciplinary research seeking solutions to critical and socially relevant problems. Graduate research programs include materials science, robotics, learning sciences and technology, and cybersecurity. It has more than 50 project centers throughout the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Europe.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $54,640.00
#43 Babson College
Babson Park, MA
Babson College is a private business school that prepares and empowers entrepreneurial leaders. It provides outstanding business education that blends innovative, integrated, applied business and liberal arts programs. Students learn to create, grow and steward sustainable economic and social value. They are trained to take on challenges and thrive in today’s rapidly evolving business environment. They are empowered to create lasting value for themselves, their communities, and the world. Babson’s research projects are used as benchmarking indicators by global organizations and companies. It is one of the northeast’s affordable colleges and offers an extensive portfolio of development programs around entrepreneurship education.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $54,144
#42 Bentley University
Waltham, MA
Bentley University offers transformative business education that is integrated with arts and sciences. It inspires students to be ethical leaders who can bring about positive change in their communities and organizations. The curriculum is designed to provide students with the critical thinking and practical skills to collaborate effectively, communicate clearly and lead successful, rewarding careers. They learn to confront the challenges of today and take on opportunities to be successful leaders. As one of the nation’s top business schools, Bentley prepares students to be a force for positive change in the classroom to the boardroom and beyond.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $53,790
#41 Stonehill College
North Easton, MA
Stonehill College is a Catholic institution of higher learning founded by the Congregation of the Holy Cross, founded in 1948. The college is guided by the principles of education and faith and helps students grow into global citizens who value knowledge, integrity, and compassion. It provides high-quality education that fosters critical thinking and the interchange of ideas. Students discover their passions and gain the skills that will allow them to maximize their impact in whatever career they choose. The college is one of the northeast’s affordable colleges and offers a range of liberal arts and sciences and pre-professional programs.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $47,808
#40 University of New England
Biddeford, ME
The University of New England is a private university in Maine with two beautiful seaside Maine campuses. It also offers an array of online degree and certificate programs. As Maine’s leading provider of health care professionals, it empowers students to improve the health of people and communities. Students are also prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The school blends on-site learning with experiential learning and research opportunities. It boasts of a legacy of some of the top-ranked health professions programs in the country. These also include Maine’s only physician assistant program and medical college and Northern New England’s only dental college.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $38,750
#39 New England College
Henniker, NH
New England College is a private liberal arts college that enrolls close to 3000 undergraduate and graduate students. The college delivers its programs in the liberal arts tradition and is one of the northeast’s affordable colleges. It places a strong emphasis on experiential learning and hands-on experience. NEC students have ongoing access to real-world experience and can benefit from over 1,000 internship opportunities. There are 42 undergraduate degree programs, 25 graduate degree programs, and one Doctoral degree program for students to explore. Students can avail themselves of hands-on training through active collaboration with career counseling services and industry partners.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $38,428
#38 Nichols College
Dudley, MA
Nichols College was founded in 1815 and has been a college of choice for business and leadership education since then. The four-year private, coeducational institution offering associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees and certificate programs. It aims to transform students into future leaders through a dynamic, career-focused business and professional education. Its distinctive career-focused and leadership-based approaches to learning have ranked it among the top business institutions in the region. The experiential business curriculum with a strong liberal arts foundation also includes impactful research and professional education. Students develop the communication skills and critical thinking abilities needed in future global leaders.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc. (NEASC)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $35,290
#37 Northeastern University
Boston, MA
Northeastern University is a private research university that emphasizes experiential learning and is known as one of the northeast’s affordable colleges. Students are encouraged and taught how to make the world their classroom and a platform to create change or grow your enterprise. They are encouraged to be agile, reinvent themselves at every stage of life and seize opportunities as they unfold. The wide range of programs engages students through research, professional work, and service globally. They learn through a process that integrates the classroom and the real world. In the process, they also learn to transform ideas into impact and prepare for successful careers.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $$27,180
#36 Castleton University
Castleton, VT
Castleton University has been dedicated to educating future leaders of Vermont and the country for over 230 years. The University trains its diverse students for relevant and meaningful careers in a global economy. They are also prepared for advanced academic pursuits. The inclusive, student-centered environment provides cutting-edge education through a highly personalized approach. Students expand their knowledge in small-class settings through a diverse and challenging curriculum. The transformational education system emphasizes undergraduate liberal arts. It also stresses professional studies along with graduate studies. It provides learning opportunities for local, out-of-state, and a growing international student population.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $24,738
#35 Temple University
Philadelphia, PA
Temple University is a state-related public research university founded as a night school by Russell Conwell in 1884. Since then, it has evolved into major higher education and a top-tier research institution. It is one of the affordable colleges in the northeast, the largest university in Philadelphia, and offers students a dynamic and nurturing learning environment. The university has the distinction of educating diverse leaders who share a common drive to learn, prepare for their careers and make a real impact. As a professional education leader, it offers programs in dentistry, medicine, pharmacy, law, and podiatry.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $19,920
#34 Grove City College
Grove City, PA
Grove City College is a private Christian liberal arts college located just north of Pittsburgh. Designed by America’s leading landscape architects, it is nestled in a picturesque 180-acre campus. The College was founded on the principles of faithfulness, community, stewardship, excellence, and independence, values it adheres to every day. It is committed to providing the best liberal arts and sciences education in the country. There are over 60 robust majors, 50+ diverse minors for students to explore. Its Center for Entrepreneurship + Innovation (E+I) offers a unique experiential component by bringing the concepts students are learning in the classroom to life.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $19,310
#33 Penn State University
State College, PA
The Pennsylvania State University is one of the premier educational institutes in the country. It educates students worldwide undergraduate, graduate, professional, continuing, and extension education programs. It offers discovery-oriented, collaborative, and interdisciplinary research. Programs offerings range in fields like arts and humanities, natural and applied sciences, engineering, social and behavioral sciences, technology, and professional studies. The school supports individuals and communities through integrated programs of teaching, research, and service. It is one of the affordable colleges in the northeast. The academic programs promote human and economic development and advancement in professional practice.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $18,454
#32 Goddard College
Plainfield, VT
Goddard College was founded in 1938 and has since then provided an environment for learning and research for a diverse student body. The college has maintained its principles of facing real-life problems as an essential part of the educational program. It focuses on the study of vocation as part of living and integrates that with academics. Students are encouraged to hands-on learning and use the community as a laboratory. Students tailor their studies to their professional interests and goals. They are encouraged to question, be curious, receive knowledge, and create new understandings of the world around them.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Hybrid
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per semester: $8,542
#31 The College of New Jersey
Ewing Township, NJ
The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) was founded in 1855 as the New Jersey State Normal School and has since maintained its reputation as a highly selective institution. It lies close to both New York City and Philadelphia and has been consistently recognized as one of the nation’s top comprehensive colleges. It maintains the seventh-highest graduation rate among all public colleges and universities. It ranks as the No. 1 public institution among regional universities in the northeast per the U.S. News & World Report and is one of the northeast’s affordable colleges. It offers students a strong liberal arts core which forms the foundation for varied degree programs offered through its seven schools.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online-Blended
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $16,100
#30 Houghton College
Houghton, NY
Houghton College is a private college founded in 1883 that ranks as one of the top Christian colleges of the liberal arts and sciences in the nation. The college focuses on educating students and preparing them to serve God and their communities. Students are equipped for lifelong success as courageous servant leaders. They can opt from a variety of customizable programs that accelerate their path to successful careers and lives. The school caters to students from diverse traditions and economic backgrounds. They explore their God-given potential through a top-notch Christian education.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $15,900
#29 Gallaudet University
Washington, D.C
Gallaudet University was founded in 1864 and is one of the affordable colleges in the northeast. It has since then been known as a world-class institution with a rich history of transformation and impact. It is a premier, federally chartered university for the deaf and differently-abled. It is the only university where students learn English and American Sign Language (ASL). Students are taught to break through all kinds of barriers and overcome them. They build connections within and beyond the signing and deaf community. By doing so, they gain the freedom to communicate easily with everyone around them.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per semester: $7,018
#28 Northern Vermont University
Johnson, VT
Northern Vermont University is a school that educates graduates who have gone on to be leaders in their communities and professions. It offers high-quality education through high-impact practices and experiential learning. It is known as a leader in higher education in the region, contributing to the local and regional economies. Along with Johnson, it also has a campus in Lyndon, and at both campuses, the faculty and staff are deeply committed to student success. NVU’s programs in the arts, the sciences, education, and professional studies prepare students to advance their careers and serve their communities.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $11,592
#27 University of Maryland
College Park, MD
The University of Maryland, College Park is the state’s flagship university and one of the northeast’s affordable colleges. Located just outside Washington, D.C., it is a global leader in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation. It aims to provide excellent teaching, research, and service to a diverse student body. As one of the nation’s preeminent public research universities, it is also committed to social entrepreneurship. It is a preeminent national center for research and graduate education that educates students and advances knowledge in varied areas. It is the institution of choice for Maryland’s undergraduates of exceptional ability and promise.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition year: $10,954
#26 Towson University
Towson, MD
Towson University is one of the top 100 public universities in the country. It offers a welcoming and warm environment for living and learning for a diverse group of students. It fosters intellectual inquiry and critical thinking in its students, preparing them to serve as effective, ethical leaders. The school is committed to providing a collaborative, interdisciplinary, and inter-professional atmosphere. It provides a strong foundation in the liberal arts with an emphasis on rigorous academic standards. It also emphasizes leadership development, excellence in teaching, along with applied and sponsored research opportunities.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $10,464
#25 Rhode Island College
Providence, RI
Rhode Island College is the state’s first public institution of higher education and one of the northeast’s affordable colleges. It serves about 9,000 students on-campus and online. The college personalizes higher education of the finest quality for undergraduate and graduate students. Programs are offered via five schools: the Feinstein School of Education and Human Development, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the School of Nursing, the School of Business, and the School of Social Work.Classes are mostly held online, with limited in-person classes for the visual arts and performing arts. Those who are eligible for clinical placements will appear for in-person settings under procedures established by partnering entities.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $10,260
#24 West Chester University
West Chester, PA
West Chester University is a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. It is dedicated to academic excellence and to being a cultural resource for students, alumni, and citizens of southeastern Pennsylvania. It is a public, regional institution that offers high-quality undergraduate education, select post-baccalaureate and graduate programs. The college strives to attract and retain a diverse student body and faculty. It is one of the affordable colleges in the northeast. Its dynamic and supportive learning environment prepares students for successful and rewarding careers. Along with high-quality academic experience, it also provides a productive and supportive environment for students.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,716.00
#23 University of Maine at Machias
Machias, ME
The University of Maine at Machias is a public university known for its close-knit campus community and an affordable liberal arts college. Located on the Bold Coast, it is known as Maine’s Coastal University. The wonderful blend of land and sea with natural ecosystems and communities makes for a unique learning environment. With an average class size of 17 students, it provides a one-on-one atmosphere of learning. The college is known for its distinctive, high-quality education. It provides students with active learning opportunities in intellectually rigorous and innovative campus experiences. Close mentoring and tight community connections pave the way for leadership development.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,350
#22 University of Maine at Presque Isle
Presque Isle, ME
The University of Maine at Presque Isle is a public university focused on helping students find their path to great professional careers. It serves as a cultural and educational resource for the entire region by combining liberal arts and selected professional programs. It is one of seven autonomous campuses within the University of Maine System and caters to 1,400 traditional and non-traditional students in a caring, small-university environment. The University has adopted a learning focus called Personalized Learning. It encompasses the classroom with hands-on learning and career preparation efforts. Students get lots of opportunities to develop skills and self-confidence for the future. It is one of the most affordable colleges in the northeast.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,350
#21 SUNY Buffalo State College
Buffalo, NY
The State University of New York College at Buffalo is popularly known as the SUNY Buffalo State College. It has been home to an engaged, diverse community of learners since 1871. It is one of the northeast’s affordable colleges and offers 64 graduate programs, 79 undergraduate majors, and various minors and certificate programs. It is a diverse and inclusive college that empowers students to succeed and inspires them to follow a lifelong passion for learning. Students can choose from fields like arts, science, education, or professional studies. The school and its faculty are committed to the intellectual and professional growth of students.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,070
#20 SUNY Cobleskill
Cobleskill, NY
The State University of New York College of Agriculture and Technology at Cobleskill is popularly known as SUNY Cobleskill. It offers high-quality education that is defined by innovative and experiential learning. Between its School of Business and Liberal Arts & Sciences and the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources, it offers 59 associate and baccalaureate degree programs. It has a 100 year legacy in hands-on learning, which is now formalized through an applied learning requirement in the curriculum. Every SUNY Cobleskill student now graduates with real-world experience. Opportunities inside and outside the classroom complement the academic experience.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,070
#19 SUNY Delhi
Delhi, NY
The State University of New York at Delhi or SUNY Delhi provides high-quality, hands-on teaching and learning for a diverse student body. There are over 60 majors and programs for students to choose from, supporting their individual learning styles and helping them reach their goals. The school offers associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and certificates in a wide variety of disciplines. It focuses on integrating technology and hands-on, career-focused practices. It is one of the technical colleges within the public State University of New York system and one of the northeast’s affordable colleges. Students find not only robust learning support but also solid preparation for a successful future.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,070
#18 SUNY Geneseo
Geneseo, NY
State University of New York College at Geneseo or SUNY Geneseo is a premier public liberal arts college. Founded in 1871, it is nationally recognized for excellence and value in the liberal arts. The college has the distinction of being one of only 286 four-year colleges to have a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, the oldest and most prestigious honor society in the country. It offers a warm environment for learning and discovery. The college is known for its exceptional faculty, welcoming atmosphere, and reputation for producing successful alumni.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online/Hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,070
#17 SUNY New Paltz
New Paltz, NY
The State University of New York at New Paltz or SUNY New Paltz is a public university that provides high-quality, affordable education. It serves all students from diverse backgrounds. It is the only residential, public university in the mid-Hudson region and one of the northeast’s affordable colleges. It offers varied undergraduate and graduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences. Students can choose from various professional programs in education, the fine and performing arts, health care, engineering, and business. A diverse faculty of scholars inspire students to engage in lifelong learning and get involved in public service.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per semester: $3,535
#16 SUNY Oneonta
Oneonta, NY
The State University of New York College at Oneonta or SUNY Oneonta is a public liberal arts college. The four-year, mid-sized college offers small classes, opportunities for undergraduate research, student/faculty interaction – all for an affordable price. Founded in the late 1800s, the college has consistently gained recognition for delivering excellence and value. The 2020 U.S. News and World Report ranked it at No.9 on the list of the region’s best public institutions. Forbes magazine 2019 listed it as No. 170 in “America’s Top Colleges” list in the Northeast.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,070
#15 SUNY Stony Brook
Stony Brook, NY
The State University of New York at Stony Brook or SUNY Stony Brook is known for its academic excellence and dynamic learning environment. For more than 60 years, it has been offering students a world-class education as an internationally recognized research institution. It offers more than 200 undergraduate programs, over 100 master’s programs, and over 50 doctoral programs. Forbes Magazine ranked it among the Top 15 Best Value Public Colleges. The US News & World Report has ranked it among the Top 40 Public Universities. 98% of its faculty hold doctoral or highest degrees in their respective fields.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,070
#14 University at Albany
Albany, NY
The University at Albany is the premier public research university that prepares students to enter top graduate, law, and medical schools or pursue careers in a wide range of professions. The expansive opportunities include in-demand programs like computer engineering, financial market regulation, emergency preparedness, homeland security, digital forensics, and public health. Students have access to internships and career preparation in Fortune 500 businesses. It offers over 50 undergraduate majors and more than 150 graduate programs in an environment designed to foster individual success. There are also early assurance options with Albany Medical Center and a unique partnership with Albany Law School.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $7,070
#13 Baruch College / CUNY
New York, NY
Baruch College offers affordable, quality education for students in New York City and adjacent areas. It is one of the affordable colleges in the northeast. It aims to create new knowledge through scholarship and research—areas of education range from the arts and sciences, public and international affairs to business studies. International students can also apply and learn in this dynamic intellectual environment. The famous Maker Hub, housed within the Lawrence N. Field Center for Entrepreneurship, encourages innovation and entrepreneurship. The Weissman School of Arts and Sciences offers journalism and creative writing programs, fine and performing arts, and comparative literature.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- Undergrad tuition year: $6,930
#12 Brooklyn College
Brooklyn, NY
Brooklyn College provides affordable and transformative education to students from all backgrounds. The college offers 175 undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, certificates, and advanced certificate and diploma programs. Subject areas span from visual, media, and performing arts; business; the humanities and social sciences; education; natural and behavioral sciences. It has a student enrollment of 17,735 students who hail from diverse backgrounds. The college follows the CUNY Pathways general education curriculum for undergraduate students. With a 90 year legacy, it creates a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per semester: $3,465
#11 Queens College
Flushing, NY
Queens College is a public college with a national reputation for its liberal arts and sciences and pre-professional programs. It has a legacy of producing more education graduates who become teachers, principals, and counselors for New York City’s public schools than any other college in the area. Its extensive range of graduate and undergraduate degrees caters to diverse student bodies around the world. The school blends honors programs with research opportunities and internship placements. It serves more than 20,000 students and has been cited for 28 consecutive years in the Princeton Review as a “Best Value” college.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per semester: $3,465
#10 The City College of New York
New York, NY
The City College of New York is the founding institution of the City University of New York; it was established as ‘The Free Academy’ in 1847. It offers high-quality and affordable education in a wide variety of disciplines. It is dedicated to the advancement of research and knowledge and houses eight schools. The college will be forever famous as the place where Albert Einstein first presented his theory of general relativity outside of Europe. High-quality programs in engineering, architecture, liberal arts and sciences, and education prepare students to excel in every field.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Undergrad tuition per semester: $3,465
#9 York College / CUNY
Jamaica, NY
York College is known for its affordable programs in liberal arts and sciences and is one of the northeast’s cheapest colleges. Its high academic standards attract some of the best students from New York City and the greater New York area. It enables students to earn an undergraduate degree easily via its flexible formats. It prepares them for a successful career as well as for graduate education. There are many opportunities for students to engage with their peers and enjoy experiential learning. York is often the first choice for students who wish to pursue health professions, business studies, allied health sciences, and aviation management.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- Undergrad tuition per year: $6,930
#8 University of the Potomac
Washington, D.C.
The University of the Potomac aims to educate students by providing them with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed in today’s competitive workplace. The small, progressive school offers hands-on personal attention to meet our busy student’s needs. Their personalized approach to education is inclusive and dynamic. It includes the convenience of time, location, and program pace to help you balance your life with your education. They focus on using the power of education to transform students’ lives and help them pursue their professional goals. The college’s deep commitment to education in the business sciences also encourages real-world experiences.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per semester: $3,330
#7 Eastern Connecticut State University
Willimantic, CT
Eastern Connecticut State University offers students a strong liberal art foundation grounded in an array of applied learning opportunities. With 40 majors and 60 minors, the school aspires to be a public liberal arts college of the first choice. It creates an unparalleled college experience for its students. It aims to offer engaged teaching, research, learning, and creative work. The school engages students from diverse backgrounds in a transformative, liberal arts learning experience. Through its high-quality academic programs, it provides knowledge and skills to lead enriching, purposeful lives.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $6,162
#6 Western Connecticut State University
Danbury, CT
Western Connecticut State University is a premier public university and one of the cheapest colleges in the northeast. It offers high-quality education that creates professionals, scholars, and leaders. They are taught by a student-centered faculty who are accomplished scholars and passionate teachers. The school offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs that blend liberal arts with professional education. Students develop as individuals and professionals with a desire for life-long learning. The university partners with businesses to create opportunities for internships, research, and experiential learning. It focuses on creating an affordable, accessible educational environment. Students grow into independent thinkers and confident leaders.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $5,890.50
#5 Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT
Central Connecticut State University is Connecticut’s oldest publicly funded university and one of the northeast’s cheapest colleges. Founded in 1849, it is the largest university within the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system. The school has maintained its record of being a leader in public higher education for nearly 170 years. There are five academic schools in the university – the School of Business, the School of Graduate Studies, the School of Education & Professional Studies, the School of Engineering, Science, & Technology, and the Carol A. Ammon College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. In 2010, the Carnegie Foundation designated CCSU a Community Engaged Institution.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $5,731
#4 Lehman College
The Bronx, NY
Lehman College is the only four-year college in the Bronx within the City University of New York system. It provides undergraduate and graduate studies in the liberal arts and sciences as well as professional education. Lehman offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs. The dynamic research environment serves as a catalyst for economic and social mobility for its students. The school serves as an intellectual, economic, and cultural center for the borough and surrounding region. It boasts a diverse student body and an even more diverse alumni network.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- Undergrad tuition per year: 5,340
#3 Rowan University
Glassboro, NJ
Rowan University was founded in 1923 and has since then evolved from a teacher preparation college to a regional university. It offers over 74 bachelor’s, four doctoral programs, 51 master’s degree programs, and two professional programs. The University has received 13 awards for green initiatives since 2007 and ranked among the best public universities in the North by U.S. News and World Report. It is one of the 56 national institutions with accredited programs in business, education, engineering, and medicine. It offers diverse scholarly and creative educational experiences and has become a new model for higher education. It is one of the most affordable colleges for out-of-state students.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Undergrad tuition per year:$5,151.25
#2 Naugatuck Valley Community College
Waterbury, CT
Naugatuck Valley Community College offers quality, affordable education for students in the state and other regions. Degree-seeking students who are committed to lifelong learning can avail an enriching educational experience. Among its programs, it has associate degrees that enable students to transfer to 4-year universities. It is one of most affordable colleges for out of state students. There are also certificate programs that can help one get into entry-level careers. They also offer non-credit proficiency certificates as part of their work-force education. There are various training opportunities to help individuals develop their potential. Students get deep foundational knowledge that blends an academic base with applied learning.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Hybrid
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Undergrad tuition per year: $3,984.00
#1 Hunter College
New York, NY
Hunter College is a distinguished public university within the City University of New York system. It has been transforming lives and inspiring students to become leaders and innovators for nearly 150 years.
The school is committed to scholarship and creative activity, student success, and public service. It offers over 170 academic programs that prepare students for diverse and thriving careers. Hunter students are encouraged to approach problems from many perspectives and think critically. Students engage in a rigorous educational experience. The academic programs stress the significance of liberal arts and sciences as a foundation of individual development. It is one of the most affordable colleges in the northeast for out-of-state students.
Fast facts:
- Format: Campus-based/Hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- Undergrad tuition per year: $ 3,465
Sources
U.S. News & World Report
Niche
Forbes
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