Rankings / National

Best Private University Bachelor's Programs

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

Schools Analyzed

$91,742

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

93%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$24,499

Avg. Net Price

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When it comes to choosing a private university for a bachelor's degree, many families find themselves focusing on outcomes that matter most, like earnings and graduation rates. For context, the average earnings for graduates from these top programs is an impressive $91,963. This figure isn’t just a number; it reflects the potential return on investment for students entering the workforce after graduation.

What sets these schools apart isn’t just prestige; it’s the measurable success of their graduates. Key metrics to consider include graduation rates, average earnings, student debt, and mobility. As you explore the list, keep in mind that high earnings and low debt can indicate a strong return on education, while a high graduation rate suggests a supportive environment that helps students succeed.

Take Princeton University and Stanford University, for instance. Princeton graduates earn an average of $110,066 with a graduation rate of 97%, while Stanford graduates average $124,080 but have a lower graduation rate of 92%. This contrast highlights the balance between financial outcomes and completion rates — a key consideration for anyone weighing their options.

Key Findings

Princeton graduates earn an average of $110,066, with a 97% graduation rate.

Stanford University graduates average $124,080 in earnings but have a 92% graduation rate.

MIT stands out with the highest average earnings of $143,372 and a 96% graduation rate.

Johns Hopkins has a net price of $18,809 and an average debt of $10,250.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $91,742

Avg. graduation rate 93%

Avg. net price $24,499

Avg. median debt $15,688

How We Ranked

Private nonprofit bachelor's programs 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.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Princeton University is known for its commitment to academic excellence and student support. The school fosters a tight-knit community among its 5,709 students, and its location in Princeton, NJ, provides a picturesque backdrop for learning and personal growth.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, attracts 7,554 students eager to innovate and lead in various fields. With a 92% graduation rate, the university provides an environment rich with opportunities for collaboration and personal growth, all while sitting in one of the most dynamic regions in the world.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, students dive into cutting-edge research and groundbreaking projects in a vibrant academic atmosphere. With a graduation rate of 96% and a student body of 4,535, MIT nurtures problem solvers who thrive on challenges and innovation, making it an excellent choice for those passionate about science and technology.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a 95% graduation rate, the University of Chicago cultivates an environment where students thrive academically and personally. The school's commitment to rigorous scholarship is reflected in the impressive median earnings of $91,885 ten years after graduation, hinting at the strong career pathways available to its graduates.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore has earned its reputation as a leader in research and public health. With 5,693 students and a graduation rate of 94%, the school cultivates a diverse community of learners who aspire to impact the world through their studies and careers.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, Harvard University is a beacon of academic excellence. The Cambridge campus is home to 7,601 students, where the culture emphasizes rigorous inquiry and collaboration across diverse fields of study.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, has a strong track record of helping students succeed. The median earnings of graduates at ten years is an impressive $104,043, highlighting the value of a degree from this institution in the job market.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, nestled in the scenic Berkshires, has a close-knit community of just 2,076 students. With a 95% graduation rate, students thrive in an environment that emphasizes personal growth and academic rigor, drawing on a rich history of liberal arts education.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University offers a close-knit community with a focus on research and innovation, evidenced by a solid 95% graduation rate. The median earnings of $89,718 ten years after graduation highlight the university's commitment to ensuring that students are well-prepared for high-demand careers in various sectors.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University invites students to explore their passions with a flexible curriculum, leading to a graduation rate of 96%. This approach encourages creativity and independent thought, contributing to median earnings of $93,487 a decade after graduation, a strong return for students pursuing diverse paths.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania is known for its blend of academic rigor and real-world application, with a graduation rate of 97%. Students here enjoy a diverse array of programs, preparing them for a range of careers, reflected in the median earnings of $111,371 a decade post-graduation.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#12

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, Tennessee, has a vibrant campus with 7,208 students and a graduation rate of 93%. The university fosters a strong sense of community, where students are encouraged to engage deeply in both their studies and extracurricular activities, preparing them for success beyond college.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#13

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

At the California Institute of Technology, or Caltech, students engage in a rigorous academic environment with a focused enrollment of just 987 students. This small community fosters close relationships with faculty, and the median earnings at ten years stand at $128,566, showing that graduates are well-prepared for high-paying careers.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#14

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, is known for its vibrant student life and strong academic programs, reflected in its 96% graduation rate. With 6,442 students, the university encourages both personal and intellectual development, fostering a diverse community that engages in meaningful dialogue and research.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, situated in Wellesley, Massachusetts, is an all-women’s college that emphasizes leadership and empowerment. With a graduation rate of 91%, Wellesley prepares its students for success in a changing world. The college's focus on creating a nurturing environment helps foster strong, confident women who are ready to take on challenges in various fields.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#16

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College, located in Claremont, California, has a rich academic environment with a graduation rate of 93%. This small college prides itself on fostering a collaborative spirit among students and professors, ensuring that everyone’s voice is valued. With an acceptance rate of just 7%, Pomona attracts motivated individuals who seek a challenging and supportive educational experience.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#17

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Amherst College shows a strong commitment to student success. Nestled in the scenic town of Amherst, Massachusetts, this small liberal arts college cultivates a close-knit community and encourages critical thinking across diverse disciplines. The 20% of students receiving Pell Grants indicates a focus on accessibility, welcoming those from various economic backgrounds.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#18

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME, attracts students with its commitment to the liberal arts and a graduation rate of 95%. With a median earning of $82,735 after ten years, graduates find themselves well-positioned in the job market.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#19

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University is renowned for its academic rigor and commitment to student success, reflected in an impressive 96% graduation rate. This prestigious institution in New Haven, Connecticut, encourages creativity and critical thinking among its 6,758 students through a rich tapestry of traditions and resources.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, showcases a vibrant campus culture with a graduation rate of 96%. Known for its strong programs across disciplines, Northwestern encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. The diverse student body benefits from a wealth of resources and networking opportunities, setting the stage for a robust collegiate experience.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#21

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Washington University in St. Louis has a strong track record of helping students succeed. Located in a vibrant urban setting, this private nonprofit school fosters a collaborative environment, where diverse ideas thrive among its 7,857 students and faculty.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#22

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

With a 96% graduation rate, Columbia University in the City of New York attracts ambitious students ready to engage in an intellectually vibrant environment. Located in the heart of Manhattan, students benefit from unparalleled access to cultural institutions, internships, and a vast network of alumni, enhancing their educational experience beyond the classroom.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#23

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, with its stunning Maine campus, supports an intimate learning environment with a graduation rate of 89%. This private nonprofit institution enrolls 2,407 students, encouraging intellectual curiosity and a commitment to the liberal arts in a tight-knit community.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College is known for its strong sense of community and commitment to undergraduate education, with a graduation rate of 96%. Located in Hanover, NH, this college cultivates a collaborative atmosphere, leading to median earnings of $97,434 for graduates ten years after enrollment.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#25

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University is a close-knit community that emphasizes leadership and service, with a graduation rate of 94%. Nestled in Lexington, Virginia, this private nonprofit school promotes a strong sense of belonging among its 1,881 students, fostering lifelong friendships and professional networks.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#26

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College is distinguished by its strong emphasis on economics and government, attracting students eager to engage in leadership and public policy. With a 93% graduation rate, this California college cultivates an environment where students thrive academically and socially, benefiting from small class sizes and a collaborative culture.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#27

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong graduation rate of 91%, Davidson College in North Carolina has a reputation for academic excellence. The college's intimate size, with just under 2,000 students, fosters close relationships between faculty and students, enhancing the learning experience and providing a supportive community.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#28

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is especially attractive to those passionate about technology and the arts, with a diverse array of programs that encourage interdisciplinary studies. The impressive 93% graduation rate shows that students are not just enrolled; they are successfully completing their degrees and ready to enter the workforce.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#29

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Swarthmore College cultivates a nurturing environment that supports student success. The small community of just over 1,600 students allows for close interactions with professors and personalized learning experiences, fostering intellectual growth and collaboration.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#30

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

At Haverford College in Pennsylvania, students find a strong commitment to academic rigor and social responsibility. With a 90% graduation rate, the college emphasizes a close-knit community that encourages collaboration among its 1,430 students, fostering friendships that often last a lifetime.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#31

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University is known for its picturesque campus and rigorous liberal arts education, attracting students who value both academics and community. With a graduation rate of 91%, students can expect strong support from faculty and peers as they navigate their college experience in the charming setting of Hamilton, New York.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#32

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, prides itself on a strong sense of community and a commitment to the liberal arts. With a graduation rate of 90%, Bates encourages students to engage deeply with their studies and each other, creating a rich academic and social experience within a smaller student body of around 1,760.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Located in vibrant Atlanta, Emory University has a strong academic reputation and a diverse student body of nearly 7,300. With a graduation rate of 91%, Emory emphasizes not just academic excellence but also the development of leadership and service skills in its students, preparing them for impactful careers.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

With a distinct commitment to combining art and engineering, The Cooper Union attracts students who are passionate about innovation. Located in New York City, this small private nonprofit school has a rigorous curriculum and a 21% acceptance rate, setting the stage for an intellectually vibrant community.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Smith College in Northampton, MA, has a strong track record of helping students complete their degrees. The college emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts education for its 2,544 students, fostering an environment where academic excellence and personal growth go hand in hand.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Provo, UT, Brigham Young University has a diverse student body of around 32,952, providing a vibrant campus life. The school has an impressive graduation rate of 82% and median earnings of $75,790 for graduates ten years post-enrollment, which highlights the potential for a strong career trajectory after earning a degree here.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#37

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

University of Notre Dame is known for its strong sense of community and commitment to values-driven education. With a graduation rate of 96%, students are supported in both their academic and personal growth, making it a nurturing environment for those seeking a holistic college experience.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#38

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Babson College in Wellesley, MA, is a hub for aspiring entrepreneurs, with a remarkable 93% graduation rate. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $123,938 within ten years, suggesting that a degree from Babson can lead to lucrative career opportunities. The smaller size of about 2,728 students allows for personalized attention and a tight-knit community where innovation and collaboration flourish.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#39

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in New York City, Barnard College is an all-women's institution that emphasizes liberal arts education and leadership. With a 93% graduation rate, it draws students who are ready to engage deeply in their studies and the world around them, fostering a strong sense of community and empowerment among its students.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#40

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Georgetown University is a prestigious institution located in the heart of Washington, DC, known for its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on global affairs. With a graduation rate of 95%, students are not only prepared for the workforce but are also equipped with the skills to become leaders in their fields.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#41

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Northfield, MN, Carleton College is a small liberal arts school with a robust graduation rate of 90%, reflecting its commitment to student success. With just over 2,000 students, Carleton emphasizes close faculty-student relationships and a collaborative learning environment, making it a great fit for those who thrive in intimate academic settings.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#42

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College, located in a small Iowa town, fosters a unique educational experience with a student body of just 1,729. The college is known for its rigorous academics, and a graduation rate of 88% reflects its dedication to student achievement. With 18% of students receiving Pell Grants, Grinnell prioritizes financial support for those who need it, promoting diversity and inclusion within its community.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#43

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Middlebury College in Vermont demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The intimate campus environment supports a tight-knit community where students can engage deeply with their studies and each other, fostering meaningful connections and academic excellence. Over 16% of the student body receives Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to financial accessibility for students from lower-income backgrounds.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#44

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College, located in Easton, PA, has a close-knit community of 2,757 students and an impressive 88% graduation rate. The school is committed to providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for success in their careers and lives, often reflected in their strong alumni network and career services.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#45

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT, reflects a strong commitment to student success. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment reach $73,897, suggesting that a Wesleyan degree can lead to substantial financial return on investment. The small student body of about 3,067 fosters close relationships between students and faculty, creating a collaborative and engaging learning environment.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#46

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#47

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

Boston University is a vibrant institution situated in the heart of Boston, catering to over 18,000 students and maintaining an 89% graduation rate. Known for its diverse programs and global perspectives, BU encourages students to engage with the city and the world, enriching their educational experience.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#48

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#49

Boston College

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

Boston College, located in Chestnut Hill, MA, is known for its rich academic tradition and beautiful campus. With a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $103,937 ten years after graduation, students can expect to enter the workforce well-prepared and financially stable. The larger student body of approximately 10,085 provides a dynamic environment, encouraging students to engage in a wide range of activities and disciplines.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#50

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

While many factors influence success, the data shows that the Massachusetts Institute of Technology significantly outperforms Johns Hopkins University in terms of earnings, with an average of $143,372 compared to Johns Hopkins’ $87,555. This stark difference underscores the importance of choosing a program that aligns not only with personal interests but also with potential financial outcomes.

For families sifting through this information, it’s crucial to prioritize what matters most. Consider location, program fit, and campus culture alongside these financial metrics. Balancing these factors against the data can help students find a school that not only supports their academic goals but also fits their lifestyle and financial situation.

Ultimately, this data illustrates the broader implications of choosing the right college. A degree from a school with strong outcomes can pave the way to a stable and prosperous life. For each family, this decision is more than just numbers; it’s about finding a place that supports both personal and financial success.

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]

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

[3]

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

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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