bachelor of arts in creative writing schools

Best Creative Writing colleges in California 2024

Best creative writing colleges in california for 2024.

University of Southern California offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 37 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 37 Bachelor's degrees.

University of California-Davis offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small suburb. In 2022, 12 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 12 Master's degrees.

University of California-Riverside offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 94 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 49 Bachelor's degrees, and 45 Master's degrees.

University of California-Irvine offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 16 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 16 Master's degrees.

California State University-Long Beach offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 10 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 10 Master's degrees.

Saint Mary's College of California offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a small, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large suburb. In 2022, 23 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 23 Master's degrees.

San Diego State University offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 17 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 17 Master's degrees.

University of San Francisco offers 1 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a medium sized, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 26 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 26 Master's degrees.

San Francisco State University offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a large city. In 2022, 26 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 25 Master's degrees, and 1 Certificate.

Chapman University offers 2 Creative Writing degree programs. It's a large, private not-for-profit, four-year university in a midsize city. In 2022, 46 Creative Writing students graduated with students earning 34 Bachelor's degrees, and 12 Master's degrees.

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2025 Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools

In 2025, College Factual analyzed 75 schools in order to identify the top ones for its Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools ranking. When you put them all together, these colleges and universities awarded 3,311 bachelor's degrees in creative writing during the <nil> academic year.

Jump to one of the following sections: * Our Methodology

• Best Bachelor’s Degree Schools List

Choosing a Great Creative Writing School for Your Bachelor's Degree

Quality Overall Is Important

A school that excels in educating for a particular major and degree level must be a great school overall as well. To make it into this list a school must rank well in our overall Best Colleges ranking. This ranking considered factors such as graduation rates, overall graduate earnings and other educational resources to identify great colleges and universities.

Other Factors We Consider

In addition to the above, you should consider some of the following factors:

• Major Focus - How much a school focuses on creative writing students vs. other majors.
• Major Demand - How many other creative writing students want to attend this school to pursue a bachelor's degree.
• Educational Resources - The amount of money and other resources allocated to students while they are pursuing their degree. These resources include such things as number of students per instructor and education expenditures per student.
• Accreditation - Whether a school is regionally accredited and/or accredited by a recognized creative writing related body.

Our complete ranking methodology documents in more detail how we consider these factors to identify the best colleges for creative writing students working on their bachelor's degree.

One Size Does Not Fit All

Since the program you select can have a significant impact on your future, we've developed a number of rankings , including this Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools list, to help you choose the best school for you.

In addition to College Factual's rankings, you may want to take a look at College Combat , our unique tool that lets you pit your favorite schools head-to-head and compare how they rate on factors that most interest you. When you have some time, check it out - you may want to bookmark the link so you don't forget it.

Best Schools for Bachelor’s Students to Study Creative Writing in the United States

Learn about the top ranked colleges and universities for creative writing students seeking a a bachelor's degree. Only those schools that rank in the top 20% of all the schools we analyze get awarded with a place on this list.

15 Top Schools for a Bachelor's in Creative Writing

Any student who is interested in a bachelor's degree in creative writing needs to look into University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus. Located in the city of Pittsburgh, Pitt is a public university with a very large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Campus

It's difficult to beat Johns Hopkins University if you want to pursue a bachelor's degree in creative writing. Johns Hopkins is a very large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Baltimore. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Johns Hopkins University

It's hard to beat University of Washington - Seattle Campus if you wish to pursue a bachelor's degree in creative writing. Located in the large city of Seattle, UW Seattle is a public university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Washington - Seattle Campus

George Mason University is one of the finest schools in the country for getting a bachelor's degree in creative writing. GMU is a fairly large public university located in the large suburb of Fairfax. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from George Mason University

Miami University - Oxford is a large public university located in the fringe town of Oxford. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Miami University - Oxford

Located in the city of New York, Columbia is a private not-for-profit university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Columbia University in the City of New York

Located in the city of Providence, Brown is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Brown University

BGSU is a fairly large public university located in the town of Bowling Green. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Bowling Green State University - Main Campus

U-M is a fairly large public university located in the midsize city of Ann Arbor. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Located in the large city of Tucson, University of Arizona is a public university with a fairly large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Arizona

Located in the large city of Boston, Emerson is a private not-for-profit college with a medium-sized student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Emerson College

Purdue is a fairly large public university located in the small city of West Lafayette. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Purdue University - Main Campus

Located in the town of Lewisburg, Bucknell is a private not-for-profit university with a small student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Bucknell University

USC is a fairly large private not-for-profit university located in the city of Los Angeles. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from University of Southern California

Located in the large suburb of Dallas, SMU is a private not-for-profit university with a large student population. More information about a bachelor’s in creative writing from Southern Methodist University

Rest of the Top Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools

Additional noteworthy schools.

Here are some additional great schools for Creative Writing students that almost earned our Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools award.

Creative Writing by Region

View the Best Creative Writing Bachelor's Degree Schools for a specific region near you.

Other Rankings

Best associate degrees in creative writing, best doctorate degrees in creative writing, best master's degrees in creative writing, best overall in creative writing.

View All Rankings >

Creative Writing Related Rankings by Major

Creative Writing is one of 4 different types of Writing Studies programs to choose from.

Most Popular Related Majors

Notes and references.

• The bars on the spread charts above show the distribution of the schools on this list +/- one standard deviation from the mean.
• The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ( IPEDS ) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a branch of the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves as the core of the rest of our data about colleges.
• Some other college data, including much of the graduate earnings data, comes from the U.S. Department of Education’s ( College Scorecard ).
• Credit for the banner image above goes to KOKUYO . More about our data sources and methodologies .

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Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Alicia Bones

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated July 28, 2023

Daniella Ramirez

Contributing Editor

BestCollegeReviews.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Why Get a Degree in Creative Writing?

Most writers and authors hold bachelor's degrees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals earn a median salary of $69,510 as of May 2021. Aspiring writers might be interested in composing fiction, nonfiction, poetry, along with scripts, advertising copy, or other written materials. Authors and writers might also become teachers, media producers, or editors.

Bachelor's programs typically involve workshops where you'll critique other students' work under professors' guidance. You'll also read published literature to determine what makes these works successful. You may also be required to pursue an internship with an organization where you might want to work after graduation, like a publishing house.

Featured Online Bachelor's in Creative Writing Degrees

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

How Much Does a Creative Writing Degree Cost?

A bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study to complete. Typically, students must earn 120 credits to graduate, with full-time enrollees averaging 30 credits per year at this pace.

Creative writing degree costs vary considerably. The median annual in-state tuition for these degrees was $7,716 in 2020. That same year, the median annual tuition for out-of-state colleges reached $38,345.

Bachelor's degrees in creative writing are offered both fully online and in person. You may prefer an online degree if you have other personal or professional obligations. In-person degrees typically offer better opportunities to connect with your peers and professors, though this is also possible in online programs.

Courses in Creative Writing

Creative writing degrees develop your craft and evaluation skills. These programs typically include coursework in fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, and screenwriting. However, some programs may not cover these genres, offering more specialized areas like graphic novels.

Students in creative writing degrees typically take three types of courses. Craft courses teach best practices for constructing your writing. You'll also enroll in workshops where your peers and professors evaluate your work. Required literature classes help you understand what makes writing successful.

The courses listed below cover three class types.

The Art and Craft of the Short Story

Most online creative writing degrees offer instruction on best practices and common features of different types of writing. For instance, what elements should appear in a successful short story? Programs typically offer craft courses focused on different genres.

Writing Workshop

Workshops are cornerstone courses in creative writing degrees. In these classes, typically divided by genre, students complete writing assignments to share with their peers and professors for feedback. Class sessions include critiquing students' writing to cover effective areas and provide ideas for improvement.

20th-Century and 21st-Century English Literature

In this course, students read canonized pieces of creative writing written in English during these two centuries. Enrollees may discuss the writer's life, the work's context, and the craft and techniques that made the writing successful.

Career and Salary Outlook for Creative Writing

Many students pursue creative writing degrees to become writers or authors. The BLS projects employment for writers to grow by 4% from 2021-2031, which aligns with the average rate for all occupations.

Similar roles include technical writers, journalists, and public relations specialists. Writers may also become editors. These jobs also typically require bachelor's degrees, though some may require additional training outside of a creative writing degree. While working on your creative writing degree, you may need to pursue an internship to develop on-the-job experience.

A creative writing degree prepares you to pursue any of these degrees. However, some programs may have certain specializations useful for entry into specific fields.

Best Online Schools for Creative Writing Degrees

The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy. The data is primarily sourced from government databases such as IPEDS – see sources section for more details.

We use trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestCollegeReviews.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

#1 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Dakota Wesleyan University

• Mitchell, SD
• Online + Campus

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $1,057 Out-of-State | $1,057

Credits to Graduate: 120

Getting your online bachelor's in creative writing from DWU equips you with the training to pursue a professional writing career. You'll gain the craft and literary analysis skills to publish your writing through required British literature, American literature, Great Plains literature, and Shakespeare courses. 

The senior capstone requires you to develop a manuscript that you can later shop to agents. Also, you can submit your work to DWU's Prairie Winds. As a first-year student, you'll need a minimum 2.0 GPA from an accredited high school for admission. 

#2 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Lesley University

• Cambridge, MA

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $495 Out-of-State | $495

At Lesley , you can focus your bachelor's in creative writing in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or scriptwriting. You'll find a supportive atmosphere in craft classes and workshops with no more than 15 students. Online learners can contribute to Lesley's Commonthought magazine and pursue internships with companies like Harvard Review, Boston Public Library, and WBZ-TV/CBS4.

You can also pursue a double major in more than 45 subjects. An undergraduate candidate does not need to submit SAT or ACT scores, but they need a 3.1 high school GPA and a 1-2 page artist statement. 

#3 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Adams State University

• Alamosa, CO

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $369 Out-of-State | $393

Credits to Graduate: 121

ASU, founded in 1921 , offers a bachelor's in creative writing program that takes eight semesters to complete. You can workshop your writing in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and advanced writing workshops. Strengthen your analytical mind through British, American, and contemporary literature courses. 

You can apply anytime after your high school junior year. ASU makes determinations based on academic and personal traits. Everyone receives consideration for a merit scholarship of $1,000-$3,000. As a test-optional school, you do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores. 

#4 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Central Washington University

• Ellensburg, WA

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Avg. Cost per Quarter: In-State | $468 Out-of-State | $1,640

The CWU bachelor's in creative writing degree combines fiction and nonfiction with technical writing and editing. You can complete the major coursework in two years. The degree also incorporates business communication and report writing, technical writing, and media copyediting. 

Through working at the Manastash literary journal, you can gain publishing experience or complete the required practicum at the Observer or Pulse student publications. CWU invites established writers to its Lion Rock Visiting Writers series every quarter. Applying for the program as a first-year enrollee or transfer student requires you to complete the English prerequisites. 

#5 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Colorado Christian University

• Lakewood, CO

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $494 Out-of-State | $494

At CCU, the undergraduate creative writing program features fully online delivery with one course at a time. In addition to nine credits in Biblical studies, you'll need to complete major courses in fiction and nonfiction seminars, copyediting, and copyright and publishing law. Part of the program teaches you to query agents. 

For admission, you must submit a high school diploma or GED certificate and complete an online undergraduate application. You can transfer up to 90 credits. CCU may provide prior credits for work and/or military experience.

#6 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Florida International University

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $236 Out-of-State | $649

Enroll in FIU's creative writing program, and you can choose from specialized tracks in literature, writing and rhetoric, creative writing, or linguistics. All tracks emphasize multicultural perspectives through upper-division courses in literature, creative writing, linguistics, and writing and rhetoric. 

You can enter as a freshman applicant with SAT/ACT scores or as a transfer student with at least 60 college credits. Start dates vary by track: writing and rhetoric track students start in the fall, spring, or summer, while literary track enrollees begin in the fall. 

#7 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Missouri State University-Springfield

• Springfield, MO

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $279 Out-of-State | $597

Missouri State offers bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of science (BS) creative writing programs. BA students take quantitative literacy as a general education credit in the first semester instead of the BS degree's contemporary mathematics course. All enrollees develop a critical approach to studying literature and the craft of writing poetry, nonfiction, short stories, or plays. 

The English Department's literary journal, Moon City Press, welcomes undergraduates seeking publishing experience. Applicants must be admitted to Missouri State and apply for the program only after completing 75 general education credits. 

#8 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Northeastern State University

• Tahlequah, OK

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $241 Out-of-State | $510

Credits to Graduate: 124

When you earn a bachelor's in creative writing at Northwestern , you can select from more than 60 minors. All undergraduate students take poetry, fiction, and creative writing portfolio workshops. You can also choose electives in travel and advanced writing, short story workshops, screenwriting, and a publication workshop. 

Northwestern accepts transfer students from public institutions in Oklahoma. A first-time applicant must submit SAT or ACT scores and have a minimum 2.70 high school GPA.

#9 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Southern New Hampshire University

• Manchester, NH

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $330 Out-of-State | $330

The creative writing program at SNHU offers concentrations in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and screenwriting. You can study from anywhere, with no live class requirements. The curriculum trains you for a professional writing career with workshops and lectures in literary analysis, craft, and critical thinking. The required 30 electives allow you to expand your creative writing degree with courses from other departments. 

There's no application fee, cost for transcripts, and no standardized test requirements for admission. You can transfer up to 90 credits and use prior learning credits toward your degree. SNHU offers rolling admissions. 

#10 Best Online Creative Writing Degrees

Southwest Minnesota State University

• Marshall, MN

Avg. Cost per Credit: In-State | $354 Out-of-State | $354

At SMSU, the bachelor's in English with an emphasis on creative writing equips you to publish your work through writing, poetry, fiction, and advanced workshops. As a senior, you must complete a final portfolio. 

Creative writing majors get access to the library in Holm and Dacey Lounge. They also serve as judges for a regional creative writing contest. SMSU also allows students to join the Perceptions Literary and Arts Journal staff, English Club, or The Spur student newspaper. Freshman applicants must submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores.  

Questions About Creative Writing Degrees

Is a creative writing degree worth it.

Creative writing degrees are particularly useful if you want to compose creative projects like novels, poetry books, or screenplays. Writers often earn above-average wages across industries, so you may pursue a similar degree, like a bachelor's program in journalism or English, if you do not want to write creatively.

What is the best degree for creative writing?

Aspiring authors and writers may want to pursue creative writing degrees. These programs often allow you to explore one or more creative writing genres, including fiction, and poetry, and creative nonfiction. However, some writers and authors earn bachelor's degrees in related fields like English, communications, or journalism.

Is creative writing a BA or BS?

Completing a creative writing degree almost always awards you a bachelor of arts (BA). Fields like fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction are considered creative arts. Bachelor of science (BS) programs are not typically connected with creative writing degrees. Only one institution currently offers an online BS in creative writing .

Can you have a career in creative writing?

As of 2021, the BLS reports that 142,800 people in America held jobs as authors and writers, with a projected employment growth rate of 4% from 2021-2031. Individuals with creative writing degrees can also pursue related professions as technical writers, editors, and journalists.

Page last reviewed June 19, 2023. All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the BCR Rankings Team.

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2025 Best Colleges with Creative Writing Degrees in America

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1-25 of 350 results

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• Cambridge, MA ·
• · Rating 4.18 out of 5   671 reviews
• grade  A+ Overall Niche Grade
• Acceptance rate 4%
• Net price $20,232
• SAT range 1530-1580

#1 Best Colleges in America. 4 Year, CAMBRIDGE, MA. 671 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars. Featured Review: Other says I don’t have personal experiences, but I can share that the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, innovative research, and a collaborative... Read 671 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 4%, Net Price: $20,232, SAT Range: 1530-1580,

Dartmouth College

• Hanover, NH ·
• · Rating 3.89 out of 5   755 reviews
• Acceptance rate 6%
• Net price $19,208
• SAT range 1500-1580

#5 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, HANOVER, NH. 755 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Featured Review: Alum says At Dartmouth, undergraduates enjoy the best of both worlds: the supportive, tight-knit environment of a small liberal arts college AND the top-tier resources and opportunities of a larger research... Read 755 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 6%, Net Price: $19,208, SAT Range: 1500-1580,

Columbia University

• New York, NY ·
• · Rating 3.83 out of 5   1,389 reviews
• Net price $22,058
• SAT range 1490-1580

#6 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, NEW YORK, NY. 1389 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Featured Review: Graduate Student says As a graduate student at Columbia University's School of Professional Studies majoring in Strategic Communications, my overall experience has been enriching and insightful. The classes are... Read 1389 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 4%, Net Price: $22,058, SAT Range: 1490-1580,

Anglo-American University

• · Rating 4.39 out of 5   44

La Sierra University

• RIVERSIDE, CA
• · Rating 3.55 out of 5   775

West Coast University

• · Rating 4.27 out of 5   15

Brown University

• Providence, RI ·
• · Rating 3.86 out of 5   1,097 reviews
• Acceptance rate 5%
• Net price $26,723

#7 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, PROVIDENCE, RI. 1097 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Featured Review: Senior says Brown is a highly academic environment that fosters collaboration instead of competition. The open curriculum and the ability to pass/fail any class allowed me to take truly bizarre classes, like TV... Read 1097 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 5%, Net Price: $26,723, SAT Range: 1490-1580,

University of Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia, PA ·
• · Rating 3.9 out of 5   1,382 reviews
• Acceptance rate 7%
• Net price $26,123
• SAT range 1500-1570

#11 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, PHILADELPHIA, PA. 1382 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Featured Review: Alum says My experience at the University of Pennsylvania was incredible. I loved the academic opportunities, which offered both rigor and flexibility, allowing me to pursue a dual degree in Bioengineering and... Read 1382 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 7%, Net Price: $26,123, SAT Range: 1500-1570,

Washington University in St. Louis

• Saint Louis, MO ·
• · Rating 4.11 out of 5   1,597 reviews
• Acceptance rate 12%
• Net price $23,432

#15 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, SAINT LOUIS, MO. 1597 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars. Featured Review: Freshman says The school and people are great. I came into the semester excited for the food, but I feel misled. The food quality is generally good as college food goes, but it varies. Read 1597 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 12%, Net Price: $23,432, SAT Range: 1500-1570,

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Northwestern University

• Evanston, IL ·
• · Rating 3.71 out of 5   1,517 reviews
• Net price $22,095
• SAT range 1490-1570

#17 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, EVANSTON, IL. 1517 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars. Featured Review: Alum says Excellent academic experience, great scholarships to graduate debt free and the best location close to the lake with easy access to Chicago. Dorms were small, but lots of places to study on campus... Read 1517 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 7%, Net Price: $22,095, SAT Range: 1490-1570,

Carnegie Mellon University

• Pittsburgh, PA ·
• · Rating 3.72 out of 5   1,495 reviews
• Acceptance rate 11%
• Net price $33,499

#18 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, PITTSBURGH, PA. 1495 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars. Featured Review: Senior says Overall my experience at CMU has been quite positive. I enjoy the cloture on campus and my academic opportunities, and particularity like the ability to pursue interdisciplinary interests. One thing... Read 1495 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 11%, Net Price: $33,499, SAT Range: 1490-1570,

Johns Hopkins University

• Baltimore, MD ·
• · Rating 3.69 out of 5   1,425 reviews
• Net price $24,034
• SAT range 1520-1570

#22 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, BALTIMORE, MD. 1425 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars. Featured Review: Graduate Student says My time at Johns Hopkins has been transformative, pushing me to grow as both a leader and a learner. Coming from a creative background, I initially felt out of my element, but the school’s support... Read 1425 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 7%, Net Price: $24,034, SAT Range: 1520-1570,

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

• Ann Arbor, MI ·
• · Rating 3.97 out of 5   4,831 reviews
• Acceptance rate 18%
• Net price $19,318
• SAT range 1350-1530

#23 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, ANN ARBOR, MI. 4831 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Featured Review: Freshman says I have had an amazing experience here at University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. I really love the campus and the people here as well as the fact that Ann Arbor is the perfect college town. The academics... Read 4831 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 18%, Net Price: $19,318, SAT Range: 1350-1530,

University of Chicago

• Chicago, IL ·
• · Rating 3.82 out of 5   1,316 reviews
• Net price $36,991

#25 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, CHICAGO, IL. 1316 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Featured Review: Alum says UChicago is a great school for the academically competitive and those really looking for a challenging experience. There is a very vibrant student life especially if are willing to broaden your... Read 1316 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 5%, Net Price: $36,991, SAT Range: 1500-1580,

University of Southern California

• Los Angeles, CA ·
• · Rating 3.99 out of 5   4,123 reviews
• Net price $36,808
• SAT range 1450-1550

#28 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, LOS ANGELES, CA. 4123 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Featured Review: Alum says I had a fantastic undergraduate experience at USC and was really able to take advantage of the LA location. The career center and professors are excellent at connecting students with off-campus... Read 4123 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 12%, Net Price: $36,808, SAT Range: 1450-1550,

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Emory University

• Atlanta, GA ·
• · Rating 3.84 out of 5   1,641 reviews
• Net price $26,680
• SAT range 1430-1550

#34 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, ATLANTA, GA. 1641 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Featured Review: Senior says Emory University in general is a very prestigious school. The school is one of the best in the country and in Atlanta. In general, Emory's medical and related majors are the best, but the overall... Read 1641 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 11%, Net Price: $26,680, SAT Range: 1430-1550,

Wellesley College

• Wellesley, MA ·
• · Rating 3.77 out of 5   640 reviews
• Acceptance rate 14%
• Net price $21,362

#44 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, WELLESLEY, MA. 640 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Featured Review: Freshman says Wellesley College is a top 5 liberal arts college which means amazing professors with astounding credentials, successful alumnae who change the world, delicious ice cream every day, beautiful campus... Read 640 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 14%, Net Price: $21,362, SAT Range: 1430-1550,

University of Texas - Austin

• Austin, TX ·
• · Rating 4.01 out of 5   6,885 reviews
• Acceptance rate 31%
• Net price $17,434
• SAT range 1230-1500

#45 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, AUSTIN, TX. 6885 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Featured Review: Freshman says I absolutely love UT Austin! It's the best university in the country, with incredible research opportunities and top programs in various fields. The campus is beautiful and easily accessible, nestled... Read 6885 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 31%, Net Price: $17,434, SAT Range: 1230-1500,

University of Miami

• Coral Gables, FL ·
• · Rating 3.87 out of 5   3,130 reviews
• Acceptance rate 19%
• Net price $36,467
• SAT range 1310-1480

#53 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, CORAL GABLES, FL. 3130 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Featured Review: Junior says To start off, I have been attending the U since Fall 2022. In the beginning, it was an environment I wasn't used to and I really considered transferring. Going to a school so far from home, I... Read 3130 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 19%, Net Price: $36,467, SAT Range: 1310-1480,

Hamilton College

• Clinton, NY ·
• · Rating 3.72 out of 5   495 reviews
• Net price $24,503
• SAT range 1420-1540

#54 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, CLINTON, NY. 495 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars. Featured Review: Freshman says My first semester was great. I was able to meet many new students and the dining workers and professors are really welcoming and kind. The community is very inclusive and there is always something... Read 495 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 12%, Net Price: $24,503, SAT Range: 1420-1540,

Haverford College

• Haverford, PA ·
• · Rating 3.96 out of 5   281 reviews
• Net price $23,476
• SAT range 1430-1540

#60 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, HAVERFORD, PA. 281 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars. Featured Review: Junior says Overall Haverford is an amazing liberal arts school. I choose a small school and understood the caveats that came with that decision. Those that pick Haverford for the education and the resources... Read 281 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 14%, Net Price: $23,476, SAT Range: 1430-1540,

University of Washington

• Seattle, WA ·
• · Rating 3.8 out of 5   4,764 reviews
• Acceptance rate 48%
• Net price $10,603
• SAT range —

#62 Best Colleges in America. 4 Year, SEATTLE, WA. 4764 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Featured Review: Junior says The University of Washington is a vibrant and diverse institution that balances academic rigor with incredible opportunities for personal growth. As a student, I’ve been inspired by its world-class... Read 4764 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 48%, Net Price: $10,603,

Purdue University

• West Lafayette, IN ·
• · Rating 3.84 out of 5   5,238 reviews
• Acceptance rate 53%
• Net price $12,576
• SAT range 1200-1470

#67 Best Colleges in America. 4 Year, WEST LAFAYETTE, IN. 5238 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Featured Review: Freshman says I love the people here at Purdue! People come here to study from all over the world, including South America, Europe, Asia, and other U.S. states. I have met people from China, India, South Korea,... Read 5238 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A+, Acceptance Rate: 53%, Net Price: $12,576, SAT Range: 1200-1470,

Macalester College

• Saint Paul, MN ·
• · Rating 3.81 out of 5   483 reviews
• grade  A Overall Niche Grade
• Acceptance rate 28%
• Net price $36,095
• SAT range 1340-1500

#82 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, SAINT PAUL, MN. 483 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Featured Review: Senior says Overall, Macalester offers a great liberal arts education. Most notably, the quality of teaching stood out the most for me because (most) professors sought out unique methods of assessment that I... Read 483 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A, Acceptance Rate: 28%, Net Price: $36,095, SAT Range: 1340-1500,

Southern Methodist University

• Dallas, TX ·
• · Rating 3.87 out of 5   1,599 reviews
• Acceptance rate 52%
• Net price $45,094
• SAT range 1370-1510

#83 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, DALLAS, TX. 1599 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Featured Review: Freshman says Southern Methodist University offers a blend of tradition, high expectations, and a vibrant campus life. The beautiful campus and dedicated professors create a rewarding academic environment, though... Read 1599 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A, Acceptance Rate: 52%, Net Price: $45,094, SAT Range: 1370-1510,

Colby College

• Waterville, ME ·
• · Rating 3.9 out of 5   685 reviews
• Acceptance rate 8%
• Net price $16,951

#84 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, WATERVILLE, ME. 685 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars. Featured Review: Junior says Current Junior at Colby. Academically, I could not imagine a better experience; all of the professors are awesome and genuinely want you to succeed/will go out of their way to help you. People are... Read 685 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A, Acceptance Rate: 8%, Net Price: $16,951, SAT Range: 1430-1540,

University of Pittsburgh

• · Rating 3.76 out of 5   4,425 reviews
• Acceptance rate 49%
• Net price $24,286
• SAT range 1280-1470

#92 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, PITTSBURGH, PA. 4425 Niche users give it an average review of 3.8 stars. Featured Review: Sophomore says Attending the University of Pittsburgh has truly been an amazing experince, and I would highly recommend attending Pitt! I greatly appreciate the athletic department here at Pitt, as they truly bring... Read 4425 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A, Acceptance Rate: 49%, Net Price: $24,286, SAT Range: 1280-1470,

George Washington University

• Washington, DC ·
• · Rating 3.67 out of 5   2,282 reviews
• Net price $42,723
• SAT range 1330-1490

#100 Best Colleges in America. Blue checkmark. 4 Year, WASHINGTON, DC. 2282 Niche users give it an average review of 3.7 stars. Featured Review: Graduate Student says I love GWU! I was worried to come to grad school directly after graduating undergrad; however, the student population at GWU has been so welcoming and easy to talk to. My professors at the Elliott... Read 2282 reviews. Overall Niche Grade: A, Acceptance Rate: 49%, Net Price: $42,723, SAT Range: 1330-1490,

Kansas City Art Institute

• KANSAS CITY, MO
• · Rating 3.61 out of 5   346

Central Michigan University

• MOUNT PLEASANT, MI
• · Rating 3.74 out of 5   3,066

Ashland University

• ASHLAND, OH
• · Rating 3.73 out of 5   818

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