Rankings / National

Best Small Colleges

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

Schools Analyzed

$79,085

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

82%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$23,607

Avg. Net Price

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Small colleges often stand out for their tight-knit communities and personalized attention. With student populations ranging from 500 to 3,000, these institutions offer unique environments where students can thrive academically and socially.

The key to evaluating these schools lies in their outcomes. Metrics like earnings, graduation rates, debt levels, and mobility provide a clearer picture of what students can expect after graduation. The list below highlights colleges that excel in these areas, giving families a reliable starting point for their search.

Take Williams College and Bowdoin College, for instance. While both have impressive graduation rates of 95%, Williams graduates average earnings of $88,665 compared to Bowdoin's $82,735. This difference in post-graduation earnings may influence decisions for families weighing long-term financial impacts against the overall college experience.

Key Findings

Williams College graduates earn an average of $88,665, significantly higher than Bowdoin's $82,735.

The average graduation rate for these small colleges is 78%, indicating many students successfully complete their programs.

The United States Merchant Marine Academy has the lowest net price at $6,174, providing affordability alongside good outcomes.

Amherst College has a net price of $23,367, which may impact debt levels compared to other schools on this list.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $79,085

Avg. graduation rate 82%

Avg. net price $23,607

Avg. median debt $18,772

How We Ranked

Colleges with 500-3,000 students 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

Williams College

Williamstown, MA

Graduation95%

Earnings$88,665

Net Price$17,716

View full profile →

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA

Graduation94%

Earnings$128,566

Net Price$16,075

View full profile →

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA

Graduation91%

Earnings$84,803

Net Price$25,496

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Williams College in Williamstown, MA, cultivates a strong academic environment that prioritizes student success. The college is known for its intimate setting and focus on a liberal arts education, giving students the chance to engage deeply with their studies and form close relationships with faculty and peers.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

Caltech, located in Pasadena, CA, is renowned for its rigorous STEM programs and a graduation rate of 94%. The small community of around 987 students fosters a collaborative atmosphere where innovative problem-solving thrives. Students are challenged to push boundaries while receiving guidance from leading experts in their fields.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College stands out as a leading women's institution, cultivating an empowering environment for its 2,300 students. With a graduation rate of 91%, the college fosters a strong sense of community and leadership, encouraging young women to excel in their fields and beyond.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Claremont, California, Pomona College offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a vibrant campus life. With a 93% graduation rate, students benefit from small class sizes and a supportive atmosphere that emphasizes collaboration and exploration.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Amherst College reflects a commitment to student success that’s hard to ignore. This small, private college in Massachusetts nurtures a close-knit community where students thrive academically and socially, fostering meaningful connections that last a lifetime.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME, stands out for its commitment to academic excellence, achieving a 95% graduation rate. With a strong emphasis on the liberal arts, Bowdoin encourages students to think critically and engage with complex societal issues, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of coastal Maine.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Colby College in Waterville, Maine, is committed to helping students succeed. The intimate setting allows for close-knit relationships between students and faculty, fostering an environment where collaboration and critical thinking thrive. This strong support system is reflected in the impressive median earnings of $80,490 at ten years post-graduation, suggesting that a Colby education can lead to rewarding career opportunities.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lexington, Virginia, Washington and Lee University combines rich history with a strong academic tradition, boasting a 94% graduation rate. The intimate campus environment encourages strong relationships between students and faculty, creating a supportive atmosphere that fosters growth and achievement.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College, located in sunny California, boasts an impressive 93% graduation rate, reflecting its supportive academic environment. Known for its emphasis on leadership and economics, students here are well-prepared to take on the challenges of the professional world. Median earnings at ten years soar to $104,736, underscoring the potential for significant financial returns from this investment in education.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#10

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College in North Carolina has a stellar graduation rate of 91%, emphasizing its dedication to student achievement. The college's focus on liberal arts education cultivates independent thinkers who are well-prepared for diverse career paths. Median earnings for graduates at ten years reach $81,400, showcasing the value of a Davidson degree in the job market.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#11

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania emphasizes a strong academic environment that fosters student success. The small campus community of 1,613 students allows for personalized attention and deep engagement with faculty, creating a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive academically and socially.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#12

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College in Pennsylvania is known for its academic rigor and strong community values, reflected in its 90% graduation rate. Students engage deeply not only in their studies but also in a vibrant campus culture that prioritizes social responsibility. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment are about $79,966, suggesting that students are well-prepared for successful careers.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#13

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College, located in Lewiston, Maine, cultivates a vibrant community of 1,760 students where collaboration and respect are fundamental. The college's commitment to a well-rounded education is reflected in its 90% graduation rate and a reputation for fostering close relationships among peers and faculty.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of New York City, The Cooper Union draws 842 students who are passionate about science and art. Known for its rigorous programs and intimate class sizes, Cooper Union boasts an 81% graduation rate, providing a focused and collaborative environment for students.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Smith College, located in Northampton, MA, is an all-women's institution known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to empowering women leaders. With an 89% graduation rate, Smith fosters an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on entrepreneurship, Babson College in Wellesley, MA, attracts students eager to innovate and start their own ventures. The school has a remarkable graduation rate of 93%, which speaks to its supportive environment and effective educational practices.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#17

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College in Northfield, MN, is known for its rigorous academics and strong focus on undergraduate research, making it a favorite for intellectually curious students. With a 90% graduation rate, Carleton emphasizes both academic excellence and a supportive community.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#18

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College is a small gem in Iowa, known for its engaging curriculum and strong emphasis on social responsibility. Home to just under 1,730 students, the college encourages a close-knit community where students can pursue their passion and develop into thoughtful leaders, all while benefiting from a self-directed learning model that emphasizes critical thinking and creativity.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#19

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Middlebury College in Vermont is known for its strong academic community and commitment to liberal arts education. The college fosters a collaborative environment where students engage deeply with their studies while taking advantage of exceptional resources like the Middlebury Language School and its renowned environmental studies program.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#20

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Easton, PA, Lafayette College provides a comprehensive education with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research and liberal arts. The college boasts an 88% graduation rate, indicating a commitment to student success and support throughout their academic journey.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#21

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Clinton, New York, Hamilton College combines a rigorous liberal arts education with a picturesque campus and a strong sense of community. The college's 91% graduation rate indicates a supportive environment where students are encouraged to explore various disciplines, engage in research, and develop lifelong connections with their peers and professors.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#22

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

At the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, students dive into a unique blend of science, engineering, and technology within a supportive, public college setting. With a student body of around 995, the school emphasizes hands-on learning and research, particularly in fields related to mining and geology, which are critical to the state's economy and beyond.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY · 1,285 students · Public

SUNY Maritime College offers a unique blend of maritime education and traditional college experiences right in Throggs Neck, NY. The college has a 70% graduation rate and emphasizes hands-on training, preparing students for lucrative careers, particularly in shipping and logistics, which is reflected in the median earnings of $95,951 a decade after graduation.

72% accepted 70% graduate $95,951 earnings

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

In Berea, Kentucky, Berea College offers a unique educational experience for 1,513 students, emphasizing social justice and community engagement. With a graduation rate of 60%, this college provides an environment where students can learn and grow, despite facing challenges.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

Nestled in the scenic mountains of Virginia, the University of Virginia's College at Wise offers a tight-knit community with a focus on liberal arts education. While the graduation rate is lower at 48%, the college provides a supportive environment that can foster lasting connections and personal growth among students, particularly those who thrive in smaller settings.

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#26

Scripps College

Claremont, CA · 1,113 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 85%, Scripps College in Claremont, CA, cultivates a close-knit community that prioritizes women's education and personal growth. The college's focus on liberal arts allows students to explore diverse subjects, fostering well-rounded thinkers ready to tackle the world.

38% accepted 85% graduate $77,539 earnings

Scripps's full profile

#27

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Kings Point, NY · 962 students · Public

Located in Kings Point, NY, the United States Merchant Marine Academy offers a unique blend of academic rigor and practical training for future leaders in the maritime industry. With an 81% graduation rate, students prepare for impactful careers while gaining valuable experience in a specialized field.

34% accepted 81% graduate $90,610 earnings

United's full profile

#28

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX · 2,505 students · Private nonprofit

Located in San Antonio, Trinity University has an impressive graduation rate of 83%. This private nonprofit institution fosters a rigorous academic atmosphere that encourages critical thinking and collaboration, making it ideal for motivated students who seek to excel in their studies.

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#29

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Harvey Mudd College is known for its rigorous STEM curriculum, attracting students passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. With a stunning graduation rate of 93%, the college prepares its graduates for impressive careers, as evidenced by their median earnings of $138,687 ten years post-graduation.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

#30

University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit, MI · 2,438 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Detroit, the University of Detroit Mercy is a welcoming place for those seeking a blend of academic rigor and community engagement. With an acceptance rate of 75% and a student body of 2,438, the university emphasizes inclusivity while preparing students for successful careers, as evidenced by the median earnings of $71,030 ten years post-graduation.

75% accepted 68% graduate $71,030 earnings

University's full profile

#31

Truman State University

Kirksville, MO · 2,513 students · Public

Truman State University, located in the heart of Kirksville, Missouri, attracts students with its strong emphasis on academic rigor and a welcoming environment. With a graduation rate of 68%, it's a place where students can thrive with supportive faculty and a close-knit community, perfect for those looking to make meaningful connections.

84% accepted 68% graduate $56,280 earnings

Truman's full profile

#32

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 79% and a unique military structure, Virginia Military Institute attracts students looking for discipline and leadership training. The school fosters an environment where cadets develop not just academically, but also personally, honing skills that can translate to strong career prospects.

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#33

University of Richmond

University of Richmond, VA · 2,980 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in a vibrant community, the University of Richmond features a graduation rate of 86%, reflecting its commitment to student success and engagement. With a focus on liberal arts education, this school cultivates critical thinking and creativity, making it ideal for students eager to explore diverse fields of study.

22% accepted 86% graduate $76,178 earnings

University's full profile

#34

Oregon Institute of Technology

Klamath Falls, OR · 2,892 students · Public

At the Oregon Institute of Technology, known for its hands-on approach to learning, a graduation rate of 56% indicates unique challenges and opportunities for students. With a larger student population of 2,892, the campus cultivates a community where practical skills meet academic growth, especially for those who thrive in applied learning environments.

95% accepted 56% graduate $72,273 earnings

Oregon's full profile

#35

DePauw University

Greencastle, IN · 1,905 students · Private nonprofit

57% accepted 77% graduate $70,527 earnings

DePauw's full profile

#36

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

With a strong focus on maritime studies, California State University Maritime Academy prepares students for rewarding careers in marine science and transportation. The school’s unique programs and hands-on training equip graduates with skills that translate into impressive median earnings of nearly $95,000 after a decade in the workforce.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

#37

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL · 2,833 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $82,592 a decade after graduation, Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago presents a compelling case for students interested in engineering, technology, and applied sciences. The school has a vibrant community of 2,833 students, and its focus on innovation prepares graduates for a competitive job market, highlighted by a strong graduation rate of 74%.

55% accepted 74% graduate $82,592 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#38

Franklin and Marshall College

Lancaster, PA · 1,799 students · Private nonprofit

28% accepted 85% graduate $76,124 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#39

University of Tulsa

Tulsa, OK · 2,813 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Tulsa stands out with its commitment to small class sizes and personalized education, making it a great choice for students seeking a more intimate college experience. With a graduation rate of 73%, the university prepares students for a wide range of careers, with median earnings of $61,408 ten years after graduation reflecting its emphasis on employability.

62% accepted 73% graduate $61,408 earnings

University's full profile

#40

Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr, PA · 1,359 students · Private nonprofit

29% accepted 84% graduate $75,217 earnings

Skidmore College

Saratoga Springs, NY · 2,694 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 82% graduate $69,363 earnings

Skidmore's full profile

#42

University of Portland

Portland, OR · 2,957 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 80% graduate $82,804 earnings

University's full profile

#43

Vassar College

Poughkeepsie, NY · 2,444 students · Private nonprofit

19% accepted 90% graduate $71,366 earnings

Vassar's full profile

#44

Saint Johns University

Collegeville, MN · 1,395 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 76% graduate $76,786 earnings

Mount Holyoke College

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

36% accepted 85% graduate $58,418 earnings

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA · 2,401 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 70% graduate $66,990 earnings

Pacific's full profile

#47

Colorado College

Colorado Springs, CO · 2,014 students · Private nonprofit

Colorado College presents a unique liberal arts education to its 2,014 students in a picturesque Colorado Springs setting. With an impressive graduation rate of 87%, this private nonprofit institution emphasizes a personalized approach to learning, making it a great fit for students who thrive in smaller, engaged communities.

18% accepted 87% graduate $65,222 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#48

Pitzer College

Claremont, CA · 1,227 students · Private nonprofit

25% accepted 83% graduate $69,512 earnings

Pitzer's full profile

#49

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

#50

Macalester College

Saint Paul, MN · 2,131 students · Private nonprofit

29% accepted 89% graduate $63,878 earnings

Macalester's full profile

When comparing Williams College and the California Institute of Technology, we see a clear performance gap. Williams has an impressive graduation rate of 95% and average earnings of $88,665, while Caltech, despite a higher graduation rate of 94%, boasts even higher average earnings of $128,566. This suggests that while both schools are performing well, Caltech graduates enjoy a significant earning advantage that could influence a family's decision.

Now that you've explored the rankings, think about your priorities. Consider factors like location, specific programs of interest, campus culture, and financial implications. Each family's situation is different, so weigh these metrics against what matters most to you and your student. For example, if keeping debt low is a priority, the United States Merchant Marine Academy's low net price may be particularly appealing.

This data highlights the importance of choosing a college that not only aligns with academic interests but also sets the stage for financial stability after graduation. A single decision can pave the way for a lifetime of possibilities, shaping not just one individual’s future but also impacting their family’s financial health.

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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