Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Public Health

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$71,839

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

69%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$18,401

Avg. Net Price

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When considering the best colleges for public health, social mobility plays a crucial role. These institutions not only prepare students for a career in healthcare but also help them advance economically, regardless of their background. For example, graduates from the University of Pennsylvania earn an impressive average of $111,371, showcasing the potential financial benefits of a degree from a top-ranked program.

What sets the leading schools apart in this category are their strong completion rates, average earnings, and manageable debt levels. The list below highlights colleges that excel in these areas, particularly for health professions. For instance, the average graduation rate among these top schools is 71%, indicating a solid commitment to student success.

Take the University of Florida and CUNY Lehman College as examples. While the University of Florida boasts a graduation rate of 91% and an average earnings potential of $71,588, CUNY Lehman College shows a stark contrast with a 50% graduation rate and earnings of $58,013. These differences can significantly impact a student’s future, making it essential to consider each school’s unique offerings.

Key Findings

University of Pennsylvania graduates earn an average of $111,371.

CUNY Lehman College has a 50% graduation rate, significantly lower than the average of 71%.

$28,699 is the average net price for a degree at the University of Pennsylvania.

Johns Hopkins University students graduate with an average debt of $10,250.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $71,839

Avg. graduation rate 69%

Avg. net price $18,401

Avg. median debt $18,637

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Health Professions

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.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

Graduation94%

Earnings$87,555

Net Price$18,809

View full profile →

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA

Graduation97%

Earnings$111,371

Net Price$28,699

View full profile →

Duke University

Durham, NC

Graduation96%

Earnings$97,800

Net Price$29,612

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University, nestled in Baltimore, is recognized for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. With a graduation rate of 94%, it supports a smaller community of 5,693 students, which can foster close relationships with faculty and peers, enhancing the educational experience.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania is a strong contender for students seeking an environment that values academic excellence. Located in Philadelphia, this private nonprofit institution serves a diverse student body of 10,650, fostering a vibrant campus culture where students can thrive academically and socially.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University in Durham is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student development. With a graduation rate of 96%, it's a place where many students find the support they need to excel, surrounded by a community of 6,442 peers who share similar ambitions and goals.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

With a diverse student body of nearly 11,000, CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx serves as a vibrant community for those looking to further their education. The college emphasizes access and affordability, welcoming 60% of its students with Pell Grants, which reflects its commitment to supporting lower-income families seeking a quality education.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

With a welcoming environment in Jamaica, NY, CUNY York College is home to over 4,300 students. The school has a rich diversity and commitment to accessibility, making it a great option for those looking for an affordable education.

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · 20,752 students · Public

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is known for its strong academic reputation and a supportive community, boasting a graduation rate of 92%. This public university not only emphasizes rigorous academics but also offers a rich campus life in a picturesque setting, making it appealing for students seeking both educational and personal growth.

15% accepted 92% graduate $72,200 earnings

University's full profile

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College, located in the heart of New York City, is a bustling public university with a diverse enrollment of over 16,000 students. Known for its strong academic programs, the college has a graduation rate of 59%, indicating a supportive environment focused on student outcomes.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida stands out for its accessibility and large, diverse student body of 35,629. With a graduation rate of 91%, it fosters a vibrant community where students can engage in various activities while pursuing their academic goals in a supportive environment.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

The University of Texas at Arlington

Arlington, TX · 32,294 students · Public

The University of Texas at Arlington is a major public university that hosts over 32,000 students in a vibrant, urban setting. Known for its diverse academic offerings and a graduation rate of 55%, the university attracts individuals who are ready to engage in a dynamic learning environment. It’s a hub for students who appreciate the combination of accessibility and opportunity that comes from attending a large institution.

80% accepted 55% graduate $63,199 earnings

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College offers an accessible education within the bustling borough of Brooklyn, making it a vibrant choice for students from diverse backgrounds. With over 10,000 students, the college fosters a community focused on inclusivity and creativity, appealing to those who thrive in a collaborative environment.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences caters to a focused group of students, with a tight-knit community of just 481. The college specializes in health sciences, and its graduates enjoy a median earnings figure of $131,426 at ten years, which is impressive for a school of its size. The 68% graduation rate indicates a solid support system for students pursuing demanding healthcare programs.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

#12

The University of Texas at Tyler

Tyler, TX · 7,440 students · Public

The University of Texas at Tyler offers a friendly campus atmosphere with a moderate size of around 7,440 students. Its acceptance rate of 94% indicates a welcoming environment for a wide range of applicants, making it a solid choice for those who might be concerned about a competitive admissions process. The university's focus on creating a supportive educational experience is evident in its programs and community engagement initiatives.

94% accepted 51% graduate $57,053 earnings

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

#14

Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR · 2,892 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 56%, the Oregon Institute of Technology supports a hands-on approach to learning that prepares students for real-world challenges. Located in Klamath Falls, this public institution is home to around 2,892 students, blending a tight-knit community with practical education that leads to strong career outcomes.

95% accepted 56% graduate $72,273 earnings

Oregon's full profile

#15

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 69%, the University of North Florida emphasizes student success and support. Located in Jacksonville, this public university is home to over 13,000 students, offering a balance of academic rigor and community engagement that can make the college experience fulfilling and meaningful.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#16

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

#17

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, is home to a vibrant student body of nearly 33,000. Known for its strong sense of community and emphasis on values, BYU cultivates an environment where students not only excel academically but also grow personally and spiritually, making it a unique place for many young people.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#18

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, has a strong reputation for academic excellence, reflected in its impressive 91% graduation rate. With a median earnings figure of $80,137 ten years post-graduation, it positions itself as a great investment in your future. The campus environment encourages collaboration, and students here often find themselves at the intersection of rigorous academics and vibrant campus life.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

The University of South Florida is a bustling campus in Tampa, home to over 37,000 students. It has a vibrant community atmosphere and offers a diverse range of programs that cater to various interests. With a graduation rate of 76%, students here are likely to find themselves well-prepared for the workforce or further studies after completing their degrees.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#20

Texas Woman's University

Denton, TX · 8,767 students · Public

96% accepted 47% graduate $56,544 earnings

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Washington, DC, Georgetown University is a private nonprofit institution known for its academic excellence and strong alumni network. With a graduation rate of 95%, it's clear that students receive robust support and resources to help them succeed.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#23

Regis University

Denver, CO · 2,627 students · Private nonprofit

86% accepted 61% graduate $72,105 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of over 59,000, the University of Central Florida is one of the largest universities in the nation. The school boasts a graduation rate of 77%, which highlights its commitment to student success and support. Located in Orlando, it provides a unique blend of academic offerings and cultural experiences, making it a compelling option for students looking to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#25

Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, CA · 2,759 students · Private nonprofit

88% accepted 63% graduate $66,677 earnings

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA · 20,888 students · Public

72% accepted 80% graduate $69,954 earnings

Boston College

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

Located in Chestnut Hill, Boston College combines a rich academic tradition with a vibrant campus life, attracting around 10,085 students who seek an exceptional education. With a graduation rate of 91%, students here have a strong support system that fosters both personal and academic growth, paving the way for impressive career trajectories.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#29

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA · 2,401 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 70% graduate $66,990 earnings

Pacific's full profile

#30

Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI · 12,351 students · Public

88% accepted 57% graduate $58,612 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#31

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA · 27,752 students · Public

87% accepted 69% graduate $76,343 earnings

George's full profile

#32

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

With a vibrant campus in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose State University attracts students eager to dive into a tech-driven environment. The university has a large student body of 27,601, giving it a diverse range of academic programs and extracurricular activities that cater to various interests and careers, particularly in engineering and computer science.

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#34

Radford University

Radford, VA · 6,038 students · Public

90% accepted 49% graduate $53,739 earnings

Radford's full profile

#35

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

#36

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, NC · 14,922 students · Public

64% accepted 71% graduate $54,967 earnings

University's full profile

#39

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#40

Holy Family University

Philadelphia, PA · 2,464 students · Private nonprofit

71% accepted 61% graduate $62,235 earnings

Temple College

Temple, TX · 3,178 students · Public

29% graduate $38,678 earnings

Temple's full profile

#42

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 90%, Northeastern University in Boston shows a strong commitment to student success. The median earnings of $92,538 at ten years after graduation reflect the value of its programs, especially when coupled with an impressive 5% acceptance rate that suggests a selective admissions process. Students here often benefit from a rich network of co-op opportunities, enhancing their practical experience in the workforce while studying.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#43

University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit, MI · 2,438 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 68% graduate $71,030 earnings

University's full profile

#44

Concordia University Texas

Austin, TX · 1,185 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 42% graduate $60,883 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#45

Seattle University

Seattle, WA · 4,062 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 74% graduate $75,272 earnings

Seattle's full profile

#46

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

Florida International University is a bustling hub in Miami, home to over 39,000 students. The university has a graduation rate of 74%, indicating that many students are finding their footing and achieving their degrees. With a median earnings figure of $60,249 ten years after graduation, the university helps pave the way for solid career opportunities in a diverse city.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#47

Rockhurst University

Kansas City, MO · 1,580 students · Private nonprofit

70% accepted 75% graduate $67,102 earnings

Rockhurst's full profile

#48

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#49

Wagner College

Staten Island, NY · 1,651 students · Private nonprofit

88% accepted 67% graduate $74,360 earnings

Wagner's full profile

#50

East Texas A&M University

Commerce, TX · 9,912 students · Public

92% accepted 44% graduate $50,296 earnings

Comparing the University of Pennsylvania and CUNY Lehman College reveals significant disparities. While Penn graduates earn an average of $111,371, Lehman College’s graduates earn only $58,013. This gap highlights how the school’s resources, network, and student support systems can directly impact career outcomes.

After reviewing the 50 schools on this list, it’s essential to reflect on what matters most to you. Consider factors such as location, academic programs, and campus culture alongside these financial metrics. A school with a higher graduation rate might better fit your preferences for support and community, while a lower net price could ease financial burdens. Find a balance between academics and personal circumstances to ensure you make the best choice.

This data underscores the importance of selecting a college that not only prepares students academically but also supports economic mobility post-graduation. For families, the decision is about more than just choosing a school; it’s about investing in a future where students can achieve stability and success. Each choice shapes a student’s path toward a stable life, making this decision pivotal.

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]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

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

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.

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