Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for Physical Sciences

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

50

Schools Analyzed

$69,407

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

68%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$14,411

Avg. Net Price

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The list of the most affordable colleges for physical sciences highlights institutions that combine value with strong academic programs. The schools here share a commitment to providing accessible education that opens doors for students pursuing careers in this vital field. With an average earning potential of $70,799 for graduates, these colleges demonstrate that affordability doesn't have to come at the expense of quality.

What sets these schools apart are their impressive graduation rates, low debt burdens, and solid post-graduation earnings. For instance, the top schools on this list show a completion rate of 70%, indicating that most students are finishing their degrees. These outcomes matter significantly in the physical sciences, where a degree can lead to diverse opportunities in research, industry, and education. As you explore the list below, keep an eye on earnings, debt, and graduation rates to find the best fit for your goals.

Consider Princeton University and CUNY Hunter College. Princeton stands out with $110,066 in earnings and a high graduation rate of 97%, while Hunter College has earnings of $63,163 and a graduation rate of just 59%. This contrast highlights the trade-offs in choosing a more affordable program versus one that may offer higher long-term earnings and completion rates. Understanding these differences will help you make a more informed decision as you weigh your options.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $69,407

Avg. graduation rate 68%

Avg. net price $14,411

Avg. median debt $18,338

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability with program concentration in Physical Sciences

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

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY

Earnings$63,163

Net Price$2,984

View full profile →

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY

Earnings$46,498

Net Price$5,718

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 97% graduation rate, Princeton University is a beacon of academic excellence. The school fosters an environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions while benefiting from a rich network of alumni and resources that can help them thrive after graduation.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College is a vibrant hub in New York City, attracting students from all walks of life. With a high acceptance rate of 54%, it offers an accessible education while maintaining a robust academic reputation, making it a strong choice for those seeking a degree in an urban environment.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY's full profile

CUNY Medgar Evers College

Brooklyn, NY · 3,233 students · Public

CUNY Medgar Evers College serves as a vital educational resource in Brooklyn, offering a diverse learning environment for its students. With a relatively low graduation rate of 21%, it challenges students to find their footing and strive for success in higher education, particularly among those who may be the first in their families to attend college.

86% accepted 21% graduate $46,498 earnings

CUNY's full profile

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

Berea College is unique, with a commitment to providing a no-tuition education for all students, fostering a close-knit and supportive community. With an acceptance rate of just 19%, this private college attracts individuals who are not only academically motivated but also value a collaborative environment dedicated to service and learning.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

Berea's full profile

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

The New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology offers a specialized education with a focus on science and engineering, attracting a unique student population. With a graduation rate of 57%, it combines rigorous study with a close-knit community of just under 1,000 students, ideal for those seeking a more personalized college experience.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

New's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is known for its rigorous academic programs and a tight-knit community of 7,500 students. With a graduation rate of 92%, it reflects a strong commitment to student success and a supportive academic environment that encourages innovation and growth.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

With a student body of nearly 10,000, the College of Staten Island CUNY serves as a vibrant community where 50% of students receive Pell Grants, highlighting its accessibility. The school has a notable acceptance rate of 92%, welcoming a diverse range of students looking to further their education in a supportive environment.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education within a small community of about 4,800 students. The impressive graduation rate of 95% indicates a supportive environment where students are encouraged to succeed academically and personally, making it a compelling choice for ambitious learners.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Rice's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Located in one of the nation's most dynamic cities, the University of Chicago attracts 7,569 students who are eager to engage with world-class faculty and an intellectually stimulating environment. With a remarkable 95% graduation rate, students here benefit from rigorous academics that prepare them for high-achieving careers. The school's urban setting fosters a vibrant community where ideas flourish and diverse perspectives are celebrated.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Brunswick, ME, Bowdoin College invites 1,873 students into a close-knit liberal arts environment known for its academic excellence. With a graduation rate of 95%, Bowdoin focuses on nurturing critical thinking and leadership skills, preparing graduates to excel in various fields. The college's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its diverse student body and support systems that encourage all students to thrive.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

University of Minnesota-Morris

Morris, MN · 936 students · Public

With a close-knit community of just 936 students, the University of Minnesota-Morris emphasizes a personalized education that fosters meaningful connections between students and faculty. The school's rural setting in Morris, MN, offers a unique blend of outdoor experiences and academic rigor, appealing to those who value both nature and scholarship.

75% accepted 62% graduate $50,919 earnings

University's full profile

University of the Virgin Islands

Charlotte Amalie, VI · 1,518 students · Public

The University of the Virgin Islands, located in the vibrant Charlotte Amalie, VI, welcomes a diverse student body of 1,518. With a 99% acceptance rate, it prioritizes accessibility, making higher education attainable for many, including 49% of students who receive Pell Grants. The island's rich culture adds a unique flavor to the academic experience, encouraging students to embrace both learning and community engagement.

99% accepted 28% graduate $38,681 earnings

University's full profile

University of North Carolina Asheville

Asheville, NC · 2,910 students · Public

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, the University of North Carolina Asheville is a public institution that embraces a more personal educational experience with just 2,910 students. Its 55% graduation rate reflects a supportive atmosphere where students can engage deeply with their studies and the community around them, making it a great option for those who value both academic and personal development.

92% accepted 55% graduate $44,030 earnings

University's full profile

University of New Orleans

New Orleans, LA · 4,638 students · Public

The University of New Orleans is a vibrant urban campus that offers unique cultural experiences in the heart of a city known for its music and cuisine. Although the graduation rate is lower at 40%, the university provides an accessible education with a 74% acceptance rate, attracting students eager to immerse themselves in both studies and the rich local culture.

74% accepted 40% graduate $47,872 earnings

University's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College, a small liberal arts college in Williamstown, Massachusetts, has one of the highest graduation rates at 95%. This high completion rate points to the strong academic support and engaged faculty that help students thrive. Graduates see median earnings of $88,665 a decade after they leave, a figure that underscores the value of a Williams education in the job market.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

With a tiny student body of just 987, California Institute of Technology fosters an environment where close-knit collaboration thrives. The 94% graduation rate speaks to the strong academic support and rigor that students experience, equipping them for successful careers in science and engineering fields.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a powerhouse for innovation, drawing students who are eager to push boundaries in technology and science. With an impressive 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $143,372 ten years after graduation, it's clear that MIT graduates are well-prepared to succeed in competitive fields.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Colby College demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The small student body of 2,407 allows for personalized attention from faculty and a close-knit community that fosters lasting connections and collaborative learning.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Colby's full profile

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College is known for its strong academic rigor, reflected in its impressive 91% graduation rate. With a student body of 1,867, the college emphasizes a liberal arts education that prepares students for thoughtful engagement in their careers and communities, fostering a culture of inquiry and leadership.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Baltimore, Johns Hopkins University is known for its rigorous academics and strong research programs. With a 94% graduation rate, students can expect a supportive environment that prepares them for impactful careers, especially in health and science fields.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Johns's full profile

Lake Superior State University

Sault Ste Marie, MI · 1,325 students · Public

Located in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, Lake Superior State University has a close-knit community with just 1,325 students. This size allows for personalized attention and support from faculty, helping students navigate their academic journeys effectively.

54% graduate $49,045 earnings

Lake's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 97% graduation rate, Harvard University is known for its commitment to student success. The median earnings of $101,817 a decade after graduation highlight the strong return on investment for those who earn a degree here, making it a compelling choice for students aiming for high-achieving careers.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · 34,948 students · Public

With a strong graduation rate of 87%, the University of California-San Diego attracts students who are serious about their education and future careers. The median earnings for graduates ten years after entering the workforce stand at $84,943, which highlights the university's role in preparing students for successful careers, particularly in the sciences and engineering fields popular in La Jolla.

27% accepted 87% graduate $84,943 earnings

University's full profile

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College is a small liberal arts institution where just 1,729 students benefit from a rich academic environment. With an 88% graduation rate, it’s clear that students receive the support they need to succeed in their studies and beyond, making it a solid choice for those who thrive in close-knit settings.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

Le Moyne-Owen College

Memphis, TN · 581 students · Private nonprofit

In Memphis, Le Moyne-Owen College caters to students looking for a supportive and inclusive environment with a 99% acceptance rate. However, the graduation rate of 26% highlights the challenges some students face in completing their degrees, which may be linked to the school's commitment to accessibility and serving underrepresented populations.

99% accepted 26% graduate $35,594 earnings

Le's full profile

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

Home to a vibrant campus culture, the University of California-Berkeley has a graduation rate of 93%, which reflects its commitment to student success and support. Graduates enjoy strong earning potential, with median earnings of $92,446 ten years after graduation, indicating that a degree from Berkeley can open doors to high-paying careers, particularly in tech and research sectors.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the Claremont Colleges, Pomona College is known for its intimate class sizes and a strong commitment to undergraduate education, serving just 1,666 students. The impressive 93% graduation rate speaks to the college's dedication to student success and the close-knit community that fosters academic and personal growth.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

Missouri University of Science and Technology, located in Rolla, has a strong reputation for engineering and technology programs, attracting 5,521 students. The university’s commitment to hands-on learning and research prepares students for successful careers in high-demand fields.

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary, nestled in historic Williamsburg, Virginia, draws in a diverse student body of 7,055. With a graduation rate of 90%, the university cultivates an environment where students are not just educated but inspired to excel academically and personally.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

Virginia Military Institute offers a unique experience that combines academic rigor with military discipline. With a graduation rate of 79% and a tight-knit community of 1,527 students, it attracts individuals who are committed to leadership and service, making it a great fit for those looking to build a strong character alongside their education.

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

Chadron State College

Chadron, NE · 1,540 students · Public

With a close-knit community of around 1,540 students, Chadron State College offers a personalized educational experience in the scenic Nebraska Panhandle. The school fosters strong connections between students and faculty, which can lead to meaningful mentorships and support systems that help students thrive academically and socially.

44% graduate $47,002 earnings

Chadron's full profile

University of Hawaii at Hilo

Hilo, HI · 2,160 students · Public

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Hawaii, the University of Hawaii at Hilo attracts students who appreciate both academic learning and cultural richness. The 45% graduation rate may raise questions, but this school focuses on accessibility, with a generous acceptance rate of 61% and a welcoming atmosphere for diverse students.

61% accepted 45% graduate $47,856 earnings

University's full profile

University of Puerto Rico-Humacao

Humacao, PR · 2,529 students · Public

The University of Puerto Rico-Humacao provides an affordable education with a strong sense of community, hosting around 2,529 students. The 50% graduation rate suggests that while challenges exist, there is a supportive network ready to assist students on their educational journey, making it a good choice for those seeking a close-knit atmosphere.

55% accepted 50% graduate $29,521 earnings

University's full profile

Chicago State University

Chicago, IL · 1,384 students · Public

43% accepted 16% graduate $42,778 earnings

Chicago's full profile

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

Seattle, WA · 31,942 students · Public

The University of Washington-Seattle Campus serves a large student body of nearly 32,000 with a graduation rate of 84%. Located in a city known for innovation and technology, UW graduates find themselves in a prime position to tap into a vibrant job market. With median earnings of $78,466 ten years post-graduation, students have solid earning potential, especially in fields like technology and healthcare.

39% accepted 84% graduate $78,466 earnings

University's full profile

Randolph College

Lynchburg, VA · 658 students · Private nonprofit

Randolph College, located in Lynchburg, Virginia, has a more relaxed acceptance rate of 94%, making it a more accessible option for many students. However, the 49% graduation rate raises important questions about student support and outcomes. The median earnings of $53,409 after ten years reflect a different trajectory compared to some peers, suggesting that students may need additional resources to ensure they thrive while pursuing their degrees.

94% accepted 49% graduate $53,409 earnings

Randolph's full profile

William Jewell College

Liberty, MO · 924 students · Private nonprofit

William Jewell College, located in Liberty, Missouri, caters to a smaller student body of about 924, fostering intimate classroom settings. This private nonprofit school encourages a strong sense of identity and community, making it an attractive option for students looking for a supportive network.

38% accepted 64% graduate $59,268 earnings

William's full profile

University of Missouri-Kansas City

Kansas City, MO · 6,817 students · Public

The University of Missouri-Kansas City offers a vibrant urban campus experience, with a student population of 6,817. While the graduation rate is 56%, the university's location in a dynamic city provides students with ample internship and job opportunities, especially in fields like healthcare and business, which can enhance learning outside the classroom.

72% accepted 56% graduate $59,637 earnings

University's full profile

SUNY College at Geneseo

Geneseo, NY · 3,869 students · Public

SUNY College at Geneseo offers an engaging academic atmosphere with a focus on liberal arts, enrolling around 3,869 students. The school's strong graduation rate of 72% reflects its commitment to student success, making it a compelling choice for those who value high academic standards and a vibrant campus life.

66% accepted 72% graduate $67,316 earnings

SUNY's full profile

Rust College

Holly Springs, MS · 467 students · Private nonprofit

49% accepted 17% graduate $32,275 earnings

Rust's full profile

Xavier University of Louisiana

New Orleans, LA · 2,628 students · Private nonprofit

69% accepted 49% graduate $52,184 earnings

Xavier's full profile

Monmouth College

Monmouth, IL · 702 students · Private nonprofit

91% accepted 62% graduate $51,110 earnings

Monmouth's full profile

Kalamazoo College

Kalamazoo, MI · 1,149 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 79% graduate $65,590 earnings

Kalamazoo's full profile

Valparaiso University

Valparaiso, IN · 2,083 students · Private nonprofit

89% accepted 69% graduate $63,191 earnings

Valparaiso's full profile

Fort Lewis College

Durango, CO · 3,079 students · Public

77% accepted 39% graduate $46,349 earnings

Fort's full profile

University of California-Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, CA · 23,113 students · Public

With a vibrant campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the University of California-Santa Barbara attracts over 23,000 students who are drawn to its strong academic programs and research opportunities. Here, 84% of students graduate, reflecting a supportive environment that encourages success in a beautiful setting.

33% accepted 84% graduate $74,915 earnings

University's full profile

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University stands as a premier institution in the heart of New York City, drawing students who are ambitious and driven. With a graduation rate of 96%, it’s clear that the supportive academic environment and extensive resources help students achieve their goals and thrive in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

University of Alabama in Huntsville

Huntsville, AL · 6,591 students · Public

69% accepted 63% graduate $61,767 earnings

University's full profile

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA · 2,401 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 70% graduate $66,990 earnings

Pacific's full profile

Coe College

Cedar Rapids, IA · 1,164 students · Private nonprofit

64% accepted 62% graduate $57,125 earnings

Coe's full profile

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). →

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.

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