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Best Bachelor's Programs in Massachusetts

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights
50
Schools Analyzed
$73,939
Avg. Earnings (10yr)
73%
Avg. Graduation Rate
$26,894
Avg. Net Price

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When considering college choices in Massachusetts, students and families often look for programs that can lead to strong outcomes. The schools in this list are united by their commitment to producing graduates who succeed in their careers, with a focus on earnings and graduation rates. With average earnings of $74,547 for graduates across these programs, the value of a degree in this state is clear.

What sets the top schools apart in Massachusetts is not just their reputation but their tangible outcomes. Metrics like graduation rates, average debt, and post-graduation earnings offer a clearer picture of what students can expect. The list below ranks schools based on these important factors, helping families weigh their options effectively.

Take, for example, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Wellesley College. MIT graduates earn an impressive $143,372 on average, supported by a 96% graduation rate, while Wellesley graduates earn $84,803 with a 91% graduation rate. While both schools show strong outcomes, the tradeoff comes down to financial considerations, as Wellesley’s net price is higher at $25,496 compared to MIT’s $20,111. This contrast highlights the importance of balancing academic prestige with financial realities as you explore your options.

Key Findings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn an average of $143,372 annually.

Harvard University boasts a graduation rate of 97%, one of the highest on this list.

Wellesley College has the highest net price among the top five at $25,496.

The average graduation rate across these programs stands at 73%, reflecting strong student success.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50
Avg. earnings at 10yr $73,939
Avg. graduation rate 73%
Avg. net price $26,894
Avg. median debt $23,018

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs in Massachusetts ranked by outcomes and mobility

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

$15K$79K$143K$0$50KNET PRICEMassachusetts InstituteHarvard UniversityWilliams CollegeWellesley CollegeAmherst College

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Massachusetts Institute …96%Harvard University97%Williams College95%Wellesley College91%Amherst College94%Smith College89%Babson College93%Boston University89%Boston College91%Tufts University93%Northeastern University90%Bentley University88%College of the Holy Cross88%Mount Holyoke College85%Worcester State Universi…58%Brandeis University86%Bridgewater State Univer…54%Massachusetts Maritime A…77%Worcester Polytechnic In…89%Salem State University52%

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Full Rankings

#1

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, students engage in a culture of innovation and critical thinking. With a stunning graduation rate of 96%, it’s clear that this institution supports its students in achieving their academic goals while preparing them for careers in technology, engineering, and beyond.
5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings
Massachusetts's full profile
#2

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University in Cambridge, MA is synonymous with academic excellence and a prestigious history. The school has a graduation rate of 97%, reflecting its commitment to student success and a supportive environment that nurtures the next generation of leaders and thinkers.
4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings
Harvard's full profile
#3

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College offers a close-knit community that fosters personalized learning and deep connections with faculty. With a graduation rate of 95%, it’s a place where students are nurtured academically and socially, often leading to lifelong friendships and valuable networking opportunities.
8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings
Williams's full profile
#4

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Wellesley College is a strong choice for students seeking a supportive and empowering environment. Located in Wellesley, MA, this private nonprofit college is dedicated to women’s education and fosters a tight-knit community of 2,300 students who are encouraged to excel academically and personally. The median earnings of graduates reach $84,803 within a decade, suggesting that a Wellesley education translates into significant career opportunities.
14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings
Wellesley's full profile
#5

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Amherst, MA, Amherst College is known for its rigorous academics and a strong sense of community. Despite a slightly smaller student body of just 1,911, it maintains an impressive graduation rate of 94%, signifying its dedication to student achievement and support throughout their educational journey.
9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings
Amherst's full profile
#6

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Smith College, a women's college in Northampton, MA, has a strong focus on empowering its students. The 89% graduation rate indicates that most students thrive in this supportive environment, where they can explore their interests and develop their potential, ultimately earning a median salary of $64,027 ten years post-graduation.
21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings
Smith's full profile
#7

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Wellesley, MA, Babson College emphasizes entrepreneurship and business leadership, making it an appealing choice for aspiring entrepreneurs. With a graduation rate of 93%, Babson cultivates a vibrant community of 2,728 students who are passionate about creating and leading in the business world. Notably, graduates earn a median of $123,938 within ten years, reflecting the effectiveness of its business-focused education in delivering high earning potential.
17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings
Babson's full profile
#8

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University is home to a diverse population of over 18,000 students, fostering a vibrant campus culture in the heart of Boston. With an 89% graduation rate and median earnings of $83,238 after ten years, graduates find themselves well-prepared for various career paths in dynamic industries like health care and technology.
11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings
Boston's full profile
#9

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Boston College is committed to helping students succeed. The median earnings of $103,937 after ten years reflect the strong return on investment graduates can expect, particularly in fields like business and education.
16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings
Boston's full profile
#10

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

Tufts University is known for its rigorous academics and a collaborative spirit, with a graduation rate of 93%. The median earnings of $83,214 a decade after graduation highlight the value of a Tufts education, especially for students pursuing careers in international relations or biomedical sciences.
11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings
Tufts's full profile
#11

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Northeastern University in Boston is known for its emphasis on experiential learning, which is reflected in its 90% graduation rate. With a student body of 17,326, the university offers a dynamic campus life while enabling students to gain hands-on experience through co-op programs in various industries. Graduates see median earnings of $92,538 a decade after finishing, showcasing the practical value of a Northeastern degree in today’s job market.
5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings
Northeastern's full profile
#12

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, Bentley University is known for its strong focus on business education and impressive graduate earnings. With a median income of $120,959 ten years after graduation, it reflects the value of a Bentley degree in the competitive job market, attracting students dedicated to business and finance careers.
45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings
Bentley's full profile
#13

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

Holy Cross, nestled in Worcester, Massachusetts, is a liberal arts college renowned for its rigorous academics and strong sense of community. The 88% graduation rate speaks to the supportive environment that helps students thrive, while the median earnings of $90,543 ten years post-graduation indicate that a degree from Holy Cross can lead to rewarding career paths, particularly in fields like education, healthcare, and business.
18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings
College's full profile
#14

Mount Holyoke College

South Hadley, MA · 2,169 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 85%, Mount Holyoke College is a place where students are supported to succeed. This all-women's college emphasizes a strong liberal arts education, empowering young women to lead in various fields. The tight-knit community fosters collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, making it an inviting environment for those who thrive in smaller academic settings.
36% accepted 85% graduate $58,418 earnings
Mount's full profile
#15

Worcester State University

Worcester, MA · 3,930 students · Public

Worcester State University offers a close-knit community experience with just under 4,000 students. This public university focuses on providing a supportive learning environment that encourages student engagement and academic achievement. With a graduation rate of 58%, students receive ample opportunities to connect with faculty and peers, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration.
88% accepted 58% graduate $60,624 earnings
Worcester's full profile
#16

Brandeis University

Waltham, MA · 3,618 students · Private nonprofit

Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts, caters to students who are looking for a balance between rigorous academics and a commitment to social justice. With an 86% graduation rate and median earnings of $77,231 after ten years, Brandeis offers a solid return on investment for those pursuing careers in social sciences, humanities, and the arts, where graduates often find meaningful work in diverse fields.
41% accepted 86% graduate $77,231 earnings
Brandeis's full profile
#17

Bridgewater State University

Bridgewater, MA · 7,829 students · Public

Bridgewater State University is known for its supportive environment, accommodating nearly 8,000 students with an acceptance rate of 88%. Graduates have a median income of $57,466 after ten years, reflecting the university's emphasis on practical career preparation, even though the graduation rate sits at 54%.
88% accepted 54% graduate $57,466 earnings
Bridgewater's full profile
#18

Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Buzzards Bay, MA · 1,395 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 77%, Massachusetts Maritime Academy equips students for careers in maritime and engineering fields, where median earnings after ten years reach $82,392. The practical focus on hands-on training sets up graduates for success in a competitive job market, and a 95% acceptance rate means many aspiring students can find their place here.
95% accepted 77% graduate $82,392 earnings
Massachusetts's full profile
#19

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester, MA · 5,447 students · Private nonprofit

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is recognized for its strong emphasis on science and technology education, attracting students who are passionate about innovation. With a graduation rate of 89%, it illustrates a solid track record of student success and readiness for the workforce. The university's project-based learning approach encourages hands-on experiences, preparing graduates to tackle real-world challenges effectively.
60% accepted 89% graduate $103,470 earnings
Worcester's full profile
#20

Salem State University

Salem, MA · 4,291 students · Public

Salem State University offers a welcoming community for students, with an acceptance rate of 96% and a diverse array of programs. While the graduation rate is 52%, those who do complete their degrees can expect median earnings of $56,662 a decade after graduation, making it a practical choice for many aspiring professionals.
96% accepted 52% graduate $56,662 earnings
Salem's full profile
#21

Clark University

Worcester, MA · 2,214 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $62,381 ten years post-graduation, Clark University in Worcester, MA, presents a promising pathway for students aiming to jumpstart their careers. The school’s emphasis on personalized education and research opportunities fosters a supportive environment for its 2,214 students, helping them build meaningful connections and skills that pay off in the long run.
40% accepted 77% graduate $62,381 earnings
Clark's full profile
#22

Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg, MA · 2,752 students · Public

Fitchburg State University, situated in Fitchburg, MA, is notable for its commitment to accessibility, seen in its 87% acceptance rate. With a student body of 2,752, the university fosters a close-knit environment where students can thrive academically and socially, despite a graduation rate of 54% that may raise questions about completion rates.
87% accepted 54% graduate $53,874 earnings
Fitchburg's full profile
#23

Westfield State University

Westfield, MA · 3,615 students · Public

Westfield State University, located in Westfield, MA, is an accessible option for many students with an 81% acceptance rate. The school, which enrolls 3,615 students, prides itself on its supportive campus community and a solid focus on student engagement, making it an ideal choice for those looking to get involved both academically and socially.
81% accepted 55% graduate $57,346 earnings
Westfield's full profile
#24

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

MCPHS University in Boston, MA, stands out for its strong focus on health sciences, which may appeal to students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare. With a median earning of $125,557 ten years after graduation, graduates are well-positioned to enter a lucrative job market, underscoring the university’s commitment to career readiness for its 3,451 students.
85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings
MCPHS's full profile
#25

Simmons University

Boston, MA · 1,670 students · Private nonprofit

Simmons University attracts students who seek a strong liberal arts education in a dynamic urban setting. With a graduation rate of 72%, it demonstrates significant student success, and its location in Boston provides students with abundant internship and job opportunities, particularly in sectors like healthcare and education.
70% accepted 72% graduate $63,494 earnings
Simmons's full profile
#26

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA · 1,108 students · Private nonprofit

Bay Path University, located in Longmeadow, Massachusetts, caters especially to women and non-traditional students, creating a unique space for those seeking flexible learning options. With an acceptance rate of 85% and a graduation rate of 51%, this university offers a welcoming atmosphere, though students may face challenges in completing their degrees on time.
85% accepted 51% graduate $55,383 earnings
Bay's full profile
#27

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA · 23,671 students · Public

UMass Amherst is a large public university with a vibrant campus life and a diverse student body of over 23,000. The school’s strong graduation rate of 83% and median earnings of $71,631 at ten years out highlight its commitment to student success and post-graduate opportunities, particularly in fields like education, engineering, and the sciences.
60% accepted 83% graduate $71,631 earnings
University's full profile
#28

Wentworth Institute of Technology

Boston, MA · 3,747 students · Private nonprofit

Wentworth Institute of Technology is an ideal choice for students passionate about hands-on learning and technical skills. With a graduation rate of 68%, it prepares students well for the workforce, particularly in fields like engineering and architecture, where the demand for skilled graduates is high. An impressive 91% acceptance rate means a broad range of students can find a spot in this innovative setting.
91% accepted 68% graduate $82,721 earnings
Wentworth's full profile
#29

Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Boston, MA · 1,831 students · Public

Massachusetts College of Art and Design is a haven for creative minds, attracting students who are passionate about art and design. Nestled in Boston, this public college has a 69% graduation rate, which indicates a solid support system for those pursuing a degree in the arts.
76% accepted 69% graduate $43,582 earnings
Massachusetts's full profile
#30

Western New England University

Springfield, MA · 2,603 students · Private nonprofit

Western New England University in Springfield, MA, offers a broad range of programs catering to diverse student interests, fostering a dynamic academic environment. With a graduation rate of 64% and median earnings of $73,157 ten years post-graduation, students can expect a solid return on their educational investment.
83% accepted 64% graduate $73,157 earnings
Western's full profile
#31

College of Our Lady of the Elms

Chicopee, MA · 949 students · Private nonprofit

At the College of Our Lady of the Elms in Chicopee, MA, students can find a welcoming community that prioritizes accessibility, as reflected in its 85% acceptance rate. The college offers a unique blend of academic programs and personal attention, leading to a graduation rate of 66% and median earnings of $51,540 ten years after graduation.
85% accepted 66% graduate $51,540 earnings
College's full profile
#32

Stonehill College

Easton, MA · 2,528 students · Private nonprofit

Stonehill College in Easton, MA, attracts students with a strong commitment to academic excellence, highlighted by a graduation rate of 78%. The college's reputation is backed by impressive median earnings of $77,745 at the ten-year mark, showcasing the value of a degree from this institution.
66% accepted 78% graduate $77,745 earnings
Stonehill's full profile
#33

Suffolk University

Boston, MA · 4,268 students · Private nonprofit

With a vibrant location in Boston, Suffolk University connects students with a diverse urban landscape, opening doors to internships and job opportunities. The school has a solid acceptance rate of 82%, making it accessible for many students eager to experience city life while pursuing their education.
82% accepted 60% graduate $67,506 earnings
Suffolk's full profile
#34

Gordon College

Wenham, MA · 1,278 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Wenham, Massachusetts, Gordon College emphasizes a strong liberal arts education intertwined with Christian values, attracting students looking for a supportive community. With a graduation rate of 68%, many students find the encouragement they need to complete their degrees and succeed in their chosen paths.
69% accepted 68% graduate $52,119 earnings
Gordon's full profile
#35

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

North Adams, MA · 713 students · Public

Situated in the picturesque town of North Adams, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts is a smaller public institution with a tight-knit community of just 713 students. Although its graduation rate is lower at 52%, the college offers a unique liberal arts education that encourages critical thinking and creativity among its students.
90% accepted 52% graduate $48,102 earnings
Massachusetts's full profile
#36

Hampshire College

Amherst, MA · 839 students · Private nonprofit

Hampshire College in Amherst, Massachusetts, attracts adventurous learners with its unique approach to education that emphasizes independent study and creativity. Although its graduation rate is 56%, this environment suits students who are self-motivated and eager to explore their academic passions without rigid structures.
75% accepted 56% graduate $46,938 earnings
Hampshire's full profile
#37

Assumption University

Worcester, MA · 1,669 students · Private nonprofit

Assumption University in Worcester is known for its strong academic programs and a welcoming community of around 1,670 students. The impressive 75% graduation rate suggests that students are well-prepared for success, and the median earnings of $74,895 after a decade reflect the value of an Assumption degree in the job market.
83% accepted 75% graduate $74,895 earnings
Assumption's full profile
#38

Springfield College

Springfield, MA · 1,751 students · Private nonprofit

Springfield College, situated in Springfield, Massachusetts, emphasizes a commitment to social responsibility and community service, attracting students passionate about making a difference. With a graduation rate of 71%, many students find their footing and are well-prepared for their careers after graduation.
72% accepted 71% graduate $48,036 earnings
Springfield's full profile
#39

University of Massachusetts-Boston

Boston, MA · 11,512 students · Public

At the University of Massachusetts-Boston, the diverse student body of over 11,000 students thrives in a vibrant urban setting. However, the graduation rate is only 50%, reflecting some of the challenges students face in completing their degrees, but many find pathways to success in various fields, with median earnings of $65,865 after ten years.
84% accepted 50% graduate $65,865 earnings
University's full profile
#40

University of Massachusetts-Lowell

Lowell, MA · 11,434 students · Public

The University of Massachusetts-Lowell is a vibrant public institution known for its strong focus on innovation and practical learning. With a student body of over 11,000, it boasts a diverse community where students can engage in hands-on experiences that prepare them for the workforce. The high acceptance rate of 83% makes it a welcoming option for many prospective students seeking a solid education in a bustling environment.
83% accepted 67% graduate $64,874 earnings
University's full profile
#41

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Needham, MA · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering is a unique gem located in Needham, MA, with an impressive 94% graduation rate. With only 377 students, this private nonprofit institution emphasizes hands-on learning and innovation, fostering a collaborative environment that prepares students for high-impact careers in engineering. The median earnings for graduates hit $129,455 within ten years, underscoring the value of an Olin education in the tech-driven economy.
25% accepted 94% graduate $129,455 earnings
Franklin's full profile
#42

Emerson College

Boston, MA · 3,870 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Boston, Emerson College draws students passionate about communication and the arts. With a graduation rate of 78%, students here are well-equipped to transition into successful careers, often landing jobs that pay a median of $62,832 within a decade of graduation.
51% accepted 78% graduate $62,832 earnings
Emerson's full profile
#43

Regis College

Weston, MA · 956 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Weston, Massachusetts, Regis College is home to a tight-knit community of just under 1,000 students. With a graduation rate of 71%, it’s clear that many students find a supportive environment here, which can make all the difference in completing a degree successfully.
70% accepted 71% graduate $52,873 earnings
Regis's full profile
#44

Framingham State University

Framingham, MA · 2,566 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 84%, Framingham State University offers a supportive environment for students seeking a community-focused education. The school has a diverse student body, with 37% of students receiving Pell Grants, showing a commitment to making higher education accessible to those from lower-income backgrounds.
84% accepted 49% graduate $52,349 earnings
Framingham's full profile
#45

Lasell University

Newton, MA · 1,226 students · Private nonprofit

Lasell University in Newton, MA, is home to a close-knit community of around 1,226 students, making it an appealing choice for those seeking personalized attention in their studies. With a notable 81% acceptance rate, Lasell welcomes a diverse student body, including 31% who are Pell Grant recipients, reflecting its commitment to providing access to education for students from various backgrounds. The school's emphasis on experiential learning allows students to gain real-world experience, which is evident in the median earnings of $49,705 ten years after graduation.
81% accepted 56% graduate $49,705 earnings
Lasell's full profile
#46

Merrimack College

North Andover, MA · 3,916 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in North Andover, Massachusetts, Merrimack College fosters a strong sense of community among its nearly 4,000 students. A graduation rate of 71% indicates that many students find the support they need to succeed academically and personally during their time here.
70% accepted 71% graduate $75,584 earnings
Merrimack's full profile
#47

Nichols College

Dudley, MA · 1,163 students · Private nonprofit

Nichols College in Dudley, MA, offers a unique blend of academic rigor and a strong focus on career readiness, attracting around 1,163 students. Its graduation rate of 63% indicates a commitment to student success, while the 81% acceptance rate means that many students can find a place where they feel they belong. With 26% of students receiving Pell Grants, Nichols is dedicated to making education accessible, and it’s designed for individuals eager to engage in a practical learning environment that prepares them for the workforce.
81% accepted 63% graduate $58,063 earnings
Nichols's full profile
#48

Lesley University

Cambridge, MA · 1,122 students · Private nonprofit

97% accepted 60% graduate $51,173 earnings
Lesley's full profile
#49

Curry College

Milton, MA · 1,780 students · Private nonprofit

88% accepted 50% graduate $54,400 earnings
Curry's full profile
#50

University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

North Dartmouth, MA · 5,221 students · Public

Located in North Dartmouth, UMass Dartmouth is a vibrant community with a strong focus on research and practical experience. With a graduation rate of 51%, it supports students through various initiatives, and 91% of its students are accepted, which contributes to a diverse and inclusive campus atmosphere.
91% accepted 51% graduate $68,804 earnings
University's full profile

While many may assume that reputation alone drives outcomes, the data shows distinct differences between schools. For instance, MIT's graduates not only have the highest average earnings at $143,372 but also feature a 96% graduation rate. In contrast, Wellesley College, while producing solid earnings of $84,803, also comes with a significantly higher net price. This suggests that while Wellesley is a strong choice, MIT may offer a better return on investment.

As you sift through the 50 schools listed, consider what matters most to you. Different schools may have varying strengths in program offerings, campus culture, and financial aid. If a strong graduation rate is your priority, schools like Harvard and MIT are attractive options, but personal fit and financial circumstances should always guide your decision.

Ultimately, the data illustrates how important it is to choose a college that aligns with your goals. A degree can open doors to a stable life, but the right choice will depend on the balance of academic, financial, and personal factors. For one family, that might mean choosing a school with lower debt levels, while another might prioritize high post-graduate earnings. Each decision shapes the future, so weigh your options carefully.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics.

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.