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.
Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
A ranking of the most affordable small private colleges. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
by
Updated August 23, 2024
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.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
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.
#1 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Virginia Union University
Richmond, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
1,730
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Amberton University
Garland, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,002
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Amridge University
Montgomery, AL - 4 years
- 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 Rate
50%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
723
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Arkansas Baptist College
Little Rock, AR - 4 years
- 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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
31%
Acceptance Rate
77%
Students Enrolled
414
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Huston-Tillotson University
Austin, TX - 4 years
- 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 Rate
54%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
1,001
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Bacone College
Muskogee, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
39%
Acceptance Rate
55%
Students Enrolled
266
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
79%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Bethune-Cookman University
Daytona Beach, FL - 2 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
51%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
2,727
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Everglades University
Boca Raton, FL - 2 years
- 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 Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
2,247
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Boricua College
New York, NY - 4 years
- 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 Rate
82%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
423
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Calumet College of Saint Joseph
Whiting, IN - 2 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
33%
Students Enrolled
658
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Claflin University
Orangeburg, SC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
1,866
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#12 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Dillard University
New Orleans, LA - 4 years
- 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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
1,202
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Flagler College-St Augustine
Saint Augustine, FL - 2 years
- 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 Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
2,623
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
18%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Florida Memorial University
Miami Gardens, FL - 4 years
- 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 Rate
51%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
1,028
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Rust College
Holly Springs, MS - 4 years
- 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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
38%
Students Enrolled
768
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
57%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#16 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto Campuses
Stockton, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
352
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#17 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Wiley College
Marshall, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
34%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
665
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#18 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Morris College
Sumter, SC - 4 years
- 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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
48%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
410
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#19 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Thomas University
Thomasville, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
29%
Students Enrolled
1,388
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#20 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
John F. Kennedy University
Pleasant Hill, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
1,125
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#21 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Johnson C Smith University
Charlotte, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
57%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
1,166
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#22 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Le Moyne-Owen College
Memphis, TN - 4 years
- 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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
53%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
613
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#23 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Husson University
Bangor, ME - 2 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
3,078
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#24 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Life University
Marietta, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
2,754
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#25 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Tougaloo College
Tougaloo, MS - 2 years
- 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 Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
5%
Students Enrolled
677
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#26 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Lourdes University
Sylvania, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
1,387
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#27 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Martin Luther College
New Ulm, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
91%
Students Enrolled
920
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#28 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Martin University
Indianapolis, IN - 4 years
- 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 Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
231
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#29 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Mid-America Christian University
Oklahoma City, OK - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,237
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#30 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Miles College
Fairfield, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
60%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,520
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
13%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#31 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Oakwood University
Huntsville, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
1,452
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#32 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Paine College
Augusta, GA - 4 years
- 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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
251
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
#33 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Peirce College
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- 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 Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
875
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#34 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Ranken Technical College
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,826
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
70%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#35 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
St. Augustine College
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- 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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
737
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#36 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Livingstone College
Salisbury, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
58%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
890
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#37 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Shaw University
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- 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 Rate
58%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
1,141
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
61%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#38 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Stillman College
Tuscaloosa, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
728
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#39 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Lane College
Jackson, TN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
56%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,047
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#40 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Texas College
Tyler, TX - 4 years
- 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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
31%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
731
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#41 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Doane University
Crete, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
1,867
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
8%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#42 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Baker College of Cadillac
Cadillac, MI - 4 years
- Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#43 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Ottawa University-Kansas City
Overland Park, KS - 4 years
- 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 Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
551
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#44 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Gallaudet University
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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 Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
1,433
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#45 Small Private Colleges And Universities In The U.S.
Trocaire College
Buffalo, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
47%
Students Enrolled
1,101
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Our Ranking Methodology
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric -- affordability -- accounts for 60% of our formula. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This ranking is from 2021. To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.
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.
Freedom and Personalization
Faculty Excellence and Commitment
Mentoring, Class Size and Faculty Access
Community
Financial Support
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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