Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

ACO Staff Writers
By
Updated on August 23, 2024
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    According to the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), there are 1,600 private non-profit colleges in the country, serving some 3.4 million students. Small private colleges and universities in the United States offer a commitment to high quality education as well as close personal faculty-student interaction. As a result, they often attract some of the brightest students, which can make admission highly competitive. These colleges often come with some of the highest price tags on tuition, too. Students, however, shouldn’t be quick to dismiss their chances of attending these schools. Financial support from small private schools can slash printed tuition costs by as much as half, according to the NAICU. Full-time students at private four-year schools receive on average $17,630 in grant assistance toward their college costs. As much as 20 percent of the students at one small private college in the Pacific Northwest received academic or need-based grants to cover their tuition in 2013.

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    Best Affordable Small Private Colleges

    We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
    from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
    #1 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Virginia Union University

    • Location-markerRichmond, VA
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    After the American Civil War, the ABHMS formed two separate schools: Wayland Seminary and the Richmond Theological Institute. These two schools have merged to become Virginia Union University in Richmond. This historically Black university currently offers undergraduate degree programs, competitive college basketball teams, and spiritual education opportunities.

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$10,530
    • Out-of-state$10,530
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$11,275
    • Out-of-state$11,275
    • Retention Rate63%
    • Acceptance Rate94%
    • Students Enrolled1,730
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment95%
    • AccreditationYes
    #2 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Amberton University

    • Location-markerGarland, TX
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Amberton University is located in Garland, Texas, and is relatively close to major metropolitan areas throughout the state of Texas. This private university offers incredibly high standards of learning to its students, and Amberton University continues to attract a student population from throughout the country for its varied educational offerings. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$8,550
    • Out-of-state$8,550
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$6,840
    • Out-of-state$6,840
    • Retention RateN/A
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled1,002
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment85%
    • AccreditationYes
    #3 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Amridge University

    • Location-markerMontgomery, AL
    • 4 year
    • Online

    Amridge University was originally founded under the name The Alabama Christian School of Religion. This school was established by the Churches of Christ, a non-denominational group of Christian believers. The school, located in Montgomery, continues to offer theological degrees as well as ministry training for students. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$9,000
    • Out-of-state$9,000
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$10,800
    • Out-of-state$10,800
    • Retention Rate50%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled723
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
    • AccreditationYes
    #4 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Arkansas Baptist College

    • Location-markerLittle Rock, AR
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Arkansas Baptist College is a relatively small private institution located in the capital city of Arkansas, Little Rock. This college is historically black. Today a variety of students at this school study a comprehensive collection of subjects in pursuit of varied degrees. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$8,760
    • Out-of-state$8,760
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate31%
    • Acceptance Rate77%
    • Students Enrolled414
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
    • AccreditationYes
    #5 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Huston-Tillotson University

    • Location-markerAustin, TX
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Austin, Texas is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, so it is no surprise that Huston-Tillotson University is expanding rapidly. Located in Austin, this historically Black college expanded to a four-year university that offers an enormous variety of educational degrees and pursuits to its students. While affiliated with the UMC and the UCC, this school is advertised as multi-faith and multi-cultural. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$12,569
    • Out-of-state$12,569
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$25,200
    • Out-of-state$25,200
    • Retention Rate54%
    • Acceptance Rate50%
    • Students Enrolled1,001
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment33%
    • AccreditationYes
    #6 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Bacone College

    • Location-markerMuskogee, OK
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Bacone College was originally founded as an educational institution for various Native American tribes and nations within the Midwest region of the United States. Today, Bacone College continues to serve Native American students as well as a wide variety of other cultures and religions. This college offers four-year degree programs in the liberal arts. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$12,000
    • Out-of-state$12,000
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate39%
    • Acceptance Rate55%
    • Students Enrolled266
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment79%
    • AccreditationYes
    #7 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Bethune-Cookman University

    • Location-markerDaytona Beach, FL
    • 2 year
    • Campus + Online

    Bethune-Cookman University is located in Daytona Beach, Florida. Its location makes it an attractive historically black college for students looking for a warmer climate and varied social opportunities. Bethune-Cookman University operates seven different colleges, including business education, nursing, graduate studies, science and engineering, social sciences, and the arts and humanities. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$13,844
    • Out-of-state$13,844
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$13,500
    • Out-of-state$13,500
    • Retention Rate51%
    • Acceptance Rate85%
    • Students Enrolled2,727
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment100%
    • AccreditationYes
    #8 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Everglades University

    • Location-markerBoca Raton, FL
    • 2 year
    • Online

    Boca Raton, Florida, a popular residential town in the state, is the home of Everglades University. This school is less than twenty years old, but it was quickly accredited and has developed a reputation for providing undergraduate and graduate degrees of the highest quality to its student population. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$20,768
    • Out-of-state$20,768
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$21,600
    • Out-of-state$21,360
    • Retention Rate75%
    • Acceptance Rate86%
    • Students Enrolled2,247
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment48%
    • AccreditationYes
    #9 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Boricua College

    • Location-markerNew York, NY
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Boricua College is located in New York City, but it is distinct from other New York colleges and post-secondary institutions in that it was originally founded to offer educational opportunities to Hispanic immigrants. Today, the college has four different satellite campuses. Over a thousand students attend the school today with a teaching population of just over 200 instructors. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$11,000
    • Out-of-state$11,000
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$18,000
    • Out-of-state$18,000
    • Retention Rate82%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled423
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
    • AccreditationYes
    #10 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Calumet College of Saint Joseph

    • Location-markerWhiting, IN
    • 2 year
    • Campus + Online

    Calumet College Of St. Joseph is a private Catholic college located in North Indiana. The school has satellite campuses in Illinois and Indiana. While the college has extensive degree options for associate, bachelor, and master-level learning, the school is also noteworthy for its comprehensive lineup of e-learning courses through online forums and off-campus software. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$19,900
    • Out-of-state$19,900
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$20,640
    • Out-of-state$21,240
    • Retention Rate61%
    • Acceptance Rate33%
    • Students Enrolled658
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment31%
    • AccreditationYes
    #11 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Claflin University

    • Location-markerOrangeburg, SC
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Claflin University has the distinction of being the very first historically Black college established in South Carolina that is still in operation today. This private university was established and is still affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Students can pursue undergraduate and graduate-level degrees, and the university also has a popular athletic program. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$16,476
    • Out-of-state$16,476
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$11,653
    • Out-of-state$11,653
    • Retention Rate71%
    • Acceptance Rate62%
    • Students Enrolled1,866
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment14%
    • AccreditationYes
    #12 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Dillard University

    • Location-markerNew Orleans, LA
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Dillard University is located in New Orleans, Louisiana, right next to the historic Gentilly Boulevard. While this historically Black college was almost completely destroyed by Hurricane Katrina, intensive rebuilding efforts have reopened the university. The university received an endowment from Ray Charles, and continues to offer degrees in business, the social sciences, humanities, and in nursing.

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$17,410
    • Out-of-state$17,410
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate71%
    • Acceptance Rate80%
    • Students Enrolled1,202
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment47%
    • AccreditationYes
    #13 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Flagler College-St Augustine

    • Location-markerSaint Augustine, FL
    • 2 year
    • Campus

    Flagler College-St. Augustine is a private institution of post-secondary learning located in St. Augustine, Florida. While the school has just celebrated its fortieth year, it has grown extensively since its inception. In fact, the school was rated one of America’s top colleges by US News & World Report because of its affordable tuition and extensive degree options. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$20,540
    • Out-of-state$20,540
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$6,864
    • Out-of-state$7,068
    • Retention Rate69%
    • Acceptance Rate81%
    • Students Enrolled2,623
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment18%
    • AccreditationYes
    #14 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Florida Memorial University

    • Location-markerMiami Gardens, FL
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Florida Memorial University, located in the beautiful and popular Miami Gardens region of Florida, is a member of the United Negro College Fund and a registered historically Black post-secondary institution. While Florida Memorial offers many degree options, it is especially noteworthy for graduating the second largest population of African-American teachers in the state. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$12,576
    • Out-of-state$12,576
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$16,708
    • Out-of-state$16,708
    • Retention Rate51%
    • Acceptance Rate57%
    • Students Enrolled1,028
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment42%
    • AccreditationYes
    #15 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Rust College

    • Location-markerHolly Springs, MS
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Holly Springs, Mississippi is the location of Rust College, which is a liberal arts educational institution whose original population of students was African American. While this college is historically Black, the student body is actually quite varied. This is one of the oldest historically Black colleges in the nation, and it is supported by the United Methodist Church.

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$9,900
    • Out-of-state$9,900
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate55%
    • Acceptance Rate38%
    • Students Enrolled768
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment57%
    • AccreditationYes
    #16 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto Campuses

    • Location-markerStockton, CA
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Humphreys College has two distinct campuses in Stockton and Modesto, California. This school is a liberal arts college that is both independent of any religious affiliations and not-for-profit. Humphreys College was the first post-secondary educational institution in the San Joaquin Valley, and it now offers two, four, and six-year degree paths for students, with the highest degree offered being a master’s degree. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$14,580
    • Out-of-state$14,580
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$10,503
    • Out-of-state$10,503
    • Retention Rate100%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled352
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment100%
    • AccreditationYes
    #17 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Wiley College

    • Location-markerMarshall, TX
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    In Marshall, Texas, Wiley College was founded as a Black college of the liberal arts by the Methodist Episcopal Church. Bishop Isaac Wiley is credited for the school's origins. Today, the school operates both on-campus and off-campus degree programs, and the student population has exceeded a thousand.

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$12,500
    • Out-of-state$12,500
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate34%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled665
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment14%
    • AccreditationYes
    #18 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Morris College

    • Location-markerSumter, SC
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    In Sumter, South Carolina, Morris College offers four-year educational programs in twenty different educational subjects. This college is regionally accredited, and students can pursue Bachelor of Fine Arts, Science, Education, and Arts degrees. Morris College is a private, religious educational institution that maintains its affiliation with the Baptist Church. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$13,890
    • Out-of-state$13,890
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate48%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled410
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment69%
    • AccreditationYes
    #19 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Thomas University

    • Location-markerThomasville, GA
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    In Thomasville, Georgia, Thomas University is a private university with all three degree options for its students: associate's degrees, bachelor's degrees, and even graduate-level degrees. The arts and sciences are both featured at Thomasville, but the school is also known for high-quality criminal justice and business administration or management degree paths.

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$10,800
    • Out-of-state$10,800
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$13,050
    • Out-of-state$13,050
    • Retention Rate64%
    • Acceptance Rate29%
    • Students Enrolled1,388
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment100%
    • AccreditationYes
    #20 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    John F. Kennedy University

    • Location-markerPleasant Hill, CA
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    John F. Kennedy University's main campus is located in Pleasant Hill, California, but the school also has two additional campuses in surrounding Californian cities. This university is affiliated with the National University System, though it still maintains its independent status. Students can pursue degrees in law, the humanities, arts and sciences, and other subjects for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$8,500
    • Out-of-state$8,500
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$8,500
    • Out-of-state$8,500
    • Retention RateN/A
    • Acceptance Rate100%
    • Students Enrolled1,125
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment68%
    • AccreditationYes
    #21 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Johnson C Smith University

    • Location-markerCharlotte, NC
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Johnson C Smith University was founded as an African-American institution of learning. The university still maintains its status as a historically Black college. Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, Johnson C Smith University currently offers a variety of bachelor's degree options. It is perhaps most well-known, though, for its highly rated and well-respected social work and counselling programs. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$16,174
    • Out-of-state$16,174
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$17,798
    • Out-of-state$17,798
    • Retention Rate57%
    • Acceptance Rate45%
    • Students Enrolled1,166
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment6%
    • AccreditationYes
    #22 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Le Moyne-Owen College

    • Location-markerMemphis, TN
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    LeMoyne-Owen College is a private college in Memphis, Tennessee. The undergraduate program is carried out through five academic divisions offering majors in 22 areas of study leading to the Bachelor of Arts, the Bachelor of Science, or the Bachelor of Business Administration degrees. It is one of the few historically Black colleges in the United States that has been in existence for more than 150 years. It was founded during the Civil War by the United Church of Christ to teach freedmen and runaway slaves to read and write. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$10,776
    • Out-of-state$10,776
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate53%
    • Acceptance Rate98%
    • Students Enrolled613
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment99%
    • AccreditationYes
    #23 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Husson University

    • Location-markerBangor, ME
    • 2 year
    • Campus + Online

    Located in Bangor, Maine, Husson University is a private post-secondary educational institution that services approximately 3,600 students. The university offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and Husson University operates three distinct campuses throughout the state of Maine, making it the largest, in area, in the entire state. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$18,890
    • Out-of-state$18,890
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$16,780
    • Out-of-state$16,780
    • Retention Rate79%
    • Acceptance Rate91%
    • Students Enrolled3,078
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment69%
    • AccreditationYes
    #24 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Life University

    • Location-markerMarietta, GA
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Located in the charming town of Marietta, Georgia, Life University is a health sciences institution most known for its chiropractic program, the largest in the world. Life University is regionally accredited by SACS to award four-year undergraduate and graduate degrees in health care, sciences, business, and general studies fields. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$12,420
    • Out-of-state$12,420
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$8,532
    • Out-of-state$8,532
    • Retention Rate61%
    • Acceptance Rate98%
    • Students Enrolled2,754
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment35%
    • AccreditationYes
    #25 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Tougaloo College

    • Location-markerTougaloo, MS
    • 2 year
    • Campus

    Located in Tougaloo, Mississippi, the aptly named Tougaloo College was founded in 1869. This school is historically Black, and it was actually founded to provide educational opportunities to slaves that had been recently freed after the American Civil War. The buildings of this college have historical value, and the school still operates as a high-quality institution of post-secondary learning. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$10,258
    • Out-of-state$10,258
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$10,134
    • Out-of-state$10,134
    • Retention Rate60%
    • Acceptance Rate5%
    • Students Enrolled677
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment0%
    • AccreditationYes
    #26 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Lourdes University

    • Location-markerSylvania, OH
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Lourdes University is located in Sylvania, Ohio, and maintains its affiliation with the Catholic Church. While the institution opened as a liberal arts bachelor's program known as Lourdes Junior College, it has expanded to offer both bachelor's and graduate degrees in a wide variety of educational pursuits. Because of its religious affiliation, theology is still a popular educational path at Lourdes U. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$24,400
    • Out-of-state$24,400
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$14,670
    • Out-of-state$15,779
    • Retention Rate72%
    • Acceptance Rate89%
    • Students Enrolled1,387
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment49%
    • AccreditationYes
    #27 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Martin Luther College

    • Location-markerNew Ulm, MN
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Martin Luther College is owned and operated exclusively by the WELS, or the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. This college is located in New Ulm, Minnesota. Male students can continue their pastoral education at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, and both men and women can also pursue educational degrees and ministry degrees at Martin Luther College. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$16,910
    • Out-of-state$16,910
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$5,400
    • Out-of-state$5,400
    • Retention Rate83%
    • Acceptance Rate91%
    • Students Enrolled920
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment29%
    • AccreditationYes
    #28 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Martin University

    • Location-markerIndianapolis, IN
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Martin University is located in Indianapolis, which puts it quite close to music venues, restaurants, sporting venues, theatrical centers, and urban opportunities. Students who attend Martin University are predominantly African-American, and they are able to pursue degree paths in counseling, the sciences, education, liberal arts, and religious studies or theology.

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$12,840
    • Out-of-state$12,840
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$11,700
    • Out-of-state$11,700
    • Retention Rate83%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled231
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment0%
    • AccreditationYes
    #29 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Mid-America Christian University

    • Location-markerOklahoma City, OK
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Mid-America Christian University is located in Oklahoma City and is one of several private Christian universities in the state of Oklahoma. Originally founded as the Gulf Coast Bible College, Mid-America Christian University was relocated from Houston, Texas to better serve a growing population of students interested in theological studies in the "Bible Belt" region of the United States. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$17,568
    • Out-of-state$17,568
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$14,832
    • Out-of-state$14,832
    • Retention Rate64%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled2,237
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment95%
    • AccreditationYes
    #30 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Miles College

    • Location-markerFairfield, AL
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Miles College was founded in Fairfield, Alabama at the end of the nineteenth century by the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. This private college is one of the oldest historically Black colleges in the nation, and it continues to offer a high quality of education and varied degree paths for its student population, which continues to grow. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$11,164
    • Out-of-state$11,164
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate60%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled1,520
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment13%
    • AccreditationYes
    #31 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Oakwood University

    • Location-markerHuntsville, AL
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Oakwood University is located in the growing city of Huntsville, Alabama. This private institution has Christian affiliations, and students are able to choose either secular or religious degree options, securing associate's degrees, bachelor's degrees, or one of several graduate degree options. This university is recognized as a historically Black college. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$18,974
    • Out-of-state$18,974
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$13,680
    • Out-of-state$13,680
    • Retention Rate73%
    • Acceptance Rate72%
    • Students Enrolled1,452
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment24%
    • AccreditationYes
    #32 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Paine College

    • Location-markerAugusta, GA
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Paine College is located in the beautiful and historic Augusta, Georgia. This college is one of several HBCU post-secondary learning institutions in the southern region of the United States. While its student body was historically African-American, Paine College now has a wide cultural population of students and an equally wide variety of degree opportunities. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$12,706
    • Out-of-state$12,706
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate61%
    • Acceptance Rate52%
    • Students Enrolled251
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment100%
    • AccreditationYes
    #33 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Peirce College

    • Location-markerPhiladelphia, PA
    • 4 year
    • Online

    Peirce College is one of several colleges located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. What separates Peirce College from other post-secondary institutions, though, is its comprehensive lineup of both accelerated learning programs and non-traditional degree programs. Most of the students who attend Peirce College take advantage of night and weekend courses or accelerated schedules. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$14,400
    • Out-of-state$14,400
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$13,896
    • Out-of-state$13,896
    • Retention Rate100%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled875
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment100%
    • AccreditationYes
    #34 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Ranken Technical College

    • Location-markerSaint Louis, MO
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Ranken Technical College is located in the historic city of St. Louis, Missouri. This technical college is specifically designed to give job training and career certification courses in the automotive, information technology, manufacturing, construction, and electrical technology industries. The school recently constructed a residence hall for students who wish to live on campus. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$15,264
    • Out-of-state$15,264
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate0%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled1,826
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment70%
    • AccreditationYes
    #35 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    St. Augustine College

    • Location-markerChicago, IL
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Saint Augustine College is located in Chicago, Illinois, and this school was established only about thirty years ago by the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago. The college was created to be a bilingual education center for Spanish-speaking students. Currently, the nearly 1500 students attending Saint Augustine College are able to pursue fourteen different educational programs. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$11,720
    • Out-of-state$11,720
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate67%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled737
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment0%
    • AccreditationYes
    #36 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Livingstone College

    • Location-markerSalisbury, NC
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Salisbury, North Carolina is the home of Livingstone College, a historically Black college founded in the late 1800s. Today, Livingstone College has a large African-American student population, but students of all ethnicities and racial backgrounds attend the institution. The school is accredited to offer bachelor's degrees in the arts, fine arts, sciences, and also in social work.

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$15,917
    • Out-of-state$15,917
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate58%
    • Acceptance Rate51%
    • Students Enrolled890
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment17%
    • AccreditationYes
    #37 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Shaw University

    • Location-markerRaleigh, NC
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    Shaw University is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The school was originally known as the Raleigh Institute of Learning, and it was established as an African American educational center. Shaw University has the distinction of being known as the longest-operating historically Black university in the Southern region of the country.

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$11,808
    • Out-of-state$11,808
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$10,404
    • Out-of-state$10,404
    • Retention Rate58%
    • Acceptance Rate65%
    • Students Enrolled1,141
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment61%
    • AccreditationYes
    #38 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Stillman College

    • Location-markerTuscaloosa, AL
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Stillman College is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. This historically Black college was founded immediately after the end of the American Civil War as an effort to provide freed slaves with a quality education. Today, students of all races, religious backgrounds, and ethnicities are able to pursue bachelor's degrees in both the arts and sciences and in the field of education. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$9,548
    • Out-of-state$9,548
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate64%
    • Acceptance Rate76%
    • Students Enrolled728
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment71%
    • AccreditationYes
    #39 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Lane College

    • Location-markerJackson, TN
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, An Historically Black Christian Community, Is Considered The Founding Group Of Lane College. Located West Of Memphis In Jackson, Tennessee, Lane College Offers Bachelor's Degrees Predominantly In The General Studies And Liberal Arts Subject Areas. This School Was Formed In The Latter-19th Century. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$9,270
    • Out-of-state$9,270
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate56%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled1,047
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment100%
    • AccreditationYes
    #40 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Texas College

    • Location-markerTyler, TX
    • 4 year
    • Campus

    The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is the founding group for Texas College, located in Tyler, Texas. The United Negro College Fund continues to financially support this historically Black institution. Texas College offers bachelor's degrees and associate's degrees in a variety of subjects including the liberal arts, business, and education. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$8,208
    • Out-of-state$8,208
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate31%
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled731
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
    • AccreditationYes
    #41 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Doane University

    • Location-markerCrete, NE
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    The Lincoln, Nebraska campus of Doane College is a satellite campus of the larger Doane College located in Crete, Nebraska. This private college has a religious association with the United Church of Christ, which provided the college with an endowment of over $70 million. The original Doane College was established in the latter part of the 19th century. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$37,080
    • Out-of-state$37,080
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$8,407
    • Out-of-state$8,407
    • Retention Rate67%
    • Acceptance Rate76%
    • Students Enrolled1,867
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment8%
    • AccreditationYes
    #42 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Baker College of Cadillac

    • Location-markerCadillac, MI
    • Campus + Online

    The original Baker College was established in Michigan in Flint in the early 20th century. Today, Baker College of Cadillac is one of thirteen different Baker College satellite campuses. This not-for-profit educational institution has regional accreditation, and it predominantly exists to provide career training to students. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention RateN/A
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students EnrolledN/A
    • Institution TypePublic
    • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
    • AccreditationYes
    #43 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Ottawa University-Kansas City

    • Location-markerOverland Park, KS
    • 4 year
    • Online

    The original Ottawa University still operates in Ottawa, Kansas, but the school has expanded with a satellite campus in Kansas City. Ottawa University-Kansas City has both on-campus and online learning programs. This private college emphasizes learning in the liberal arts field of study and has religious ties with the American Baptist Churches of the USA. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$12,229
    • Out-of-state$12,229
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$10,328
    • Out-of-state$10,328
    • Retention RateN/A
    • Acceptance RateN/A
    • Students Enrolled551
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment100%
    • AccreditationYes
    #44 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Gallaudet University

    • Location-markerWashington, DC
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Thomas Gallaudet is one of the most important individuals with regard to deaf education history, so Gallaudet University, named after him, strives to offer high-quality education for deaf individuals. Gallaudet University is the only American post-secondary institution that offers degree programs, transition education, and professional services to just the deaf community. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$16,512
    • Out-of-state$16,512
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-State$18,180
    • Out-of-state$18,180
    • Retention Rate80%
    • Acceptance Rate62%
    • Students Enrolled1,433
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment45%
    • AccreditationYes
    #45 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.

    Trocaire College

    • Location-markerBuffalo, NY
    • 4 year
    • Campus + Online

    Trocaire College may only be a junior college in Buffalo, New York, but it has created a reputation for providing students with an excellent learning foundation. Initially founded as a school for women, Trocaire College is now coeducational. The school offers certification programs and associate's degree programs, as well as transfer opportunities for students who want to continue their education. 

    Average Undergrad Tuition
    • In-State$18,340
    • Out-of-state$18,340
    Average Graduate Tuition
    • In-StateN/A
    • Out-of-stateN/A
    • Retention Rate100%
    • Acceptance Rate47%
    • Students Enrolled1,101
    • Institution TypePrivate
    • Percent Online Enrollment89%
    • AccreditationYes

    The Benefits of Small Private Colleges

    Even among the relatively low number of small private colleges in the country, there can be great diversity between degree programs. Some are known for their academic specialties, their historical place in American education, or for their faculties. Among them, these are some of the most-attractive assets: Academic Standards. One of the reasons small private colleges enjoy prestige is because they consistently establish high academic standards for the faculty and student body. Admission is highly competitive. The college may be celebrated for specific academic disciplines or for offering a well-rounded liberal arts education based on small class sizes, led by distinguished educators.

    AC Online: Private Colleges with Million-Dollar Returns

    What’s a college education worth? While there’s no foolproof way to gauge degree value, certain colleges must be doing something right. Just one percent of colleges across the country have a documented million-dollar return on investment (ROI): alumni whose lifetime earnings surpass those of non-degree holders by seven figures.

    The following colleges and universities represent the mere 46 private institutions that make up this Top 1%. These post-secondary juggernauts continually graduate young professionals who earn top dollar over the course of their careers.

    To identify the private institutions with seven-figure returns, AC Online examined tuition rates, fees, and alumni salaries for more than 7,000 U.S. colleges and universities. Primary data sources include the Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the Carnegie Foundation, and PayScale.com – four of the most trusted names in college- and career-related data.

    AC Online has compiled a list of affordable small private schools for you to consider. From New York to California, there are plenty of options across the country for students seeking smaller classroom sizes with a modest price tag. All the schools below are accredited, have tuition and fees totaling less than $15,000, and enroll less than 4,000 students.

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