Rankings / National

Smallest Colleges in America

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

Schools Analyzed

$52,457

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

47%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,678

Avg. Net Price

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Only 100 students attend the smallest colleges in America. For families, this means a more intimate learning environment.

Students searching for small colleges often seek personalized attention and unique communities. The underlying question is about outcomes: will these colleges lead to better earnings and less debt? Data shows that smaller institutions can provide pathways to success, but outcomes vary significantly.

Dallas Christian College and Bryn Athyn College of the New Church illustrate this variation. Dallas Christian graduates earn $43,503 annually but have a graduation rate of only 26%. In contrast, Bryn Athyn boasts a 55% graduation rate with lower average earnings of $40,457, highlighting the trade-offs families face.

Key Findings

Dallas Christian College has a $43,503 average earnings but only a 26% graduation rate.

Cottey College graduates earn $35,422 and have a 59% graduation rate, showcasing a different approach to student success.

Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences leads with $63,582 average earnings and a 53% graduation rate.

The average earnings across these colleges is $52,906, while the average graduation rate is 47%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $52,457

Avg. graduation rate 47%

Avg. net price $20,678

Avg. median debt $22,642

How We Ranked

Ranked by smallest enrollment (min 100 students)

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

Cottey College

Nevada, MO

Graduation59%

Earnings$35,422

Net Price$13,805

View full profile →

Dallas Christian College

Dallas, TX

Graduation26%

Earnings$43,503

Net Price$22,960

View full profile →

Stephens College

Columbia, MO

Graduation45%

Earnings$43,071

Net Price$23,459

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Cottey College

Nevada, MO · 254 students · Private nonprofit

Cottey College has 254 students and a graduation rate of 59%. This women's college in Missouri is known for its supportive atmosphere and commitment to empowering female students. Graduates earn a median income of $35,422 a decade after finishing their degree, which reflects the school's dedication to student outcomes.

69% accepted 59% graduate $35,422 earnings

Cottey's full profile

Dallas Christian College

Dallas, TX · 224 students · Private nonprofit

Dallas Christian College has a small student body of 224. With a 26% graduation rate, students may find a tight-knit community. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment are $43,503, suggesting some financial return on investment.

22% accepted 26% graduate $43,503 earnings

Dallas's full profile

Stephens College

Columbia, MO · 391 students · Private nonprofit

In Columbia, Missouri, Stephens College has a student body of 391. The school has a graduation rate of 45%, with graduates earning a median income of $43,071 after ten years.

77% accepted 45% graduate $43,071 earnings

Stephens's full profile

Bryn Athyn College of the New Church

Bryn Athyn, PA · 244 students · Private nonprofit

Bryn Athyn College has 244 students and a graduation rate of 55%. With a focus on a unique curriculum tied to the New Church, it attracts those interested in a distinctive educational experience. Graduates earn a median of $40,457 after ten years, a solid start for many careers.

83% accepted 55% graduate $40,457 earnings

Randall University

Moore, OK · 267 students · Private nonprofit

Randall University has a small enrollment of 267 students and a graduation rate of 23%. It provides a personal approach to education, which some students may find appealing. Despite a lower graduation rate, graduates earn a median of $42,051 after ten years, indicating potential for financial success.

58% accepted 23% graduate $42,051 earnings

Randall's full profile

Salem College

Winston-Salem, NC · 423 students · Private nonprofit

Salem College has a 57% graduation rate, which reflects its supportive environment for students. The median earnings for graduates reach $44,640 at 10 years, making it an attractive option for those pursuing a degree in liberal arts or related fields.

77% accepted 57% graduate $44,640 earnings

Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Canton, OH · 280 students · Private nonprofit

Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences has an enrollment of 280 students and a graduation rate of 53%. Specializing in health sciences, it prepares students for in-demand careers in nursing and related fields. Graduates earn a median salary of $63,582 after ten years, reflecting strong job prospects in healthcare.

46% accepted 53% graduate $63,582 earnings

Aultman's full profile

Kentucky Christian University

Grayson, KY · 429 students · Private nonprofit

At Kentucky Christian University, the small size of 429 students promotes close relationships and individualized attention. However, with a graduation rate of 35%, some students may struggle to complete their degrees. Graduates earn a median of $42,375 after ten years, which is a decent starting point.

61% accepted 35% graduate $42,375 earnings

Kentucky's full profile

University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO · 337 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Saint Louis, the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy has a 69% graduation rate, which is favorable for health sciences students. Graduates can expect to earn a median salary of $137,047 within ten years, highlighting the financial advantages of a degree in this field. With a 90% acceptance rate, the school is accessible to a broad range of applicants interested in health-related studies.

90% accepted 69% graduate $137,047 earnings

University's full profile

#10

Sweet Briar College

Sweet Briar, VA · 443 students · Private nonprofit

After financial aid, students pay an average of $17,758. Graduates earn a median of $51,943 ten years after starting their studies. With a debt of $27,000, students can expect manageable payments, making this a viable option for various student backgrounds.

76% accepted 50% graduate $51,943 earnings

Wesleyan College

Macon, GA · 400 students · Private nonprofit

Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia, has a small population of 400 students. The graduation rate here is 50%, and graduates see median earnings of $44,317 ten years post-graduation.

59% accepted 50% graduate $44,317 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#12

Washington Adventist University

Takoma Park, MD · 452 students · Private nonprofit

Students pay about $18,526 after aid. Graduates earn a median of $64,249 ten years later, but the median debt of $30,500 may raise concerns about financial stability. This school may appeal to those who value a faith-centered education.

46% accepted 33% graduate $64,249 earnings

Washington's full profile

#13

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Wilkes-Barre

Dallas, PA · 313 students · Public

With a 19% graduation rate, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Wilkes-Barre may be a consideration for students who need a flexible learning environment. The median earnings for graduates reach $63,435 within a decade, indicating potential for solid financial outcomes after leaving the school. A 97% acceptance rate might appeal to those looking for a welcoming entry into higher education.

97% accepted 19% graduate $63,435 earnings

Pennsylvania's full profile

#14

Blackburn College

Carlinville, IL · 471 students · Private nonprofit

Blackburn College, located in Carlinville, Illinois, has a student body of 471 and a 55% graduation rate. This private nonprofit is designed to foster a collaborative learning environment, where students can engage in hands-on experiences as part of their education.

63% accepted 55% graduate $46,802 earnings

Blackburn's full profile

#15

Williams Baptist University

Walnut Ridge, AR · 478 students · Private nonprofit

83% accepted 31% graduate $38,484 earnings

Williams's full profile

#16

Art Academy of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH · 205 students · Private nonprofit

Art Academy of Cincinnati, with just 205 students, offers a close-knit atmosphere for aspiring artists. The school has a 42% graduation rate, and graduates earn a median income of $34,368 a decade after finishing their studies. The relatively low acceptance rate of 34% indicates a selective admission process, appealing to dedicated art students.

34% accepted 42% graduate $34,368 earnings

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

#18

John Paul the Great Catholic University

Escondido, CA · 286 students · Private nonprofit

John Paul the Great Catholic University has a 65% graduation rate, making it a strong option for students wanting a supportive academic environment. The median earnings for its graduates are $56,930 after ten years, reflecting solid career prospects. The acceptance rate of 80% might attract students looking for an inclusive community focused on a Catholic education.

80% accepted 65% graduate $56,930 earnings

Prescott College

Prescott, AZ · 219 students · Private nonprofit

Prescott College, with 219 students, offers a unique educational experience with a 44% graduation rate. Graduates earn a median income of $42,359 after ten years. The acceptance rate is high at 95%, making it a welcoming option for students seeking personalized learning opportunities in a tight-knit community.

95% accepted 44% graduate $42,359 earnings

Prescott's full profile

#20

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Greater Allegheny

McKeesport, PA · 349 students · Public

With a 96% acceptance rate, this public college in McKeesport, PA is accessible for many students. The small campus size of 349 students creates a close-knit community where individuals can connect with peers and faculty easily.

96% accepted 23% graduate $63,435 earnings

Pennsylvania's full profile

#21

Mitchell College

New London, CT · 377 students · Private nonprofit

95% accepted 43% graduate $39,115 earnings

Mitchell's full profile

#22

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Fayette- Eberly

Lemont Furnace, PA · 402 students · Public

Located in Lemont Furnace, Pennsylvania, this public university has 402 students. With a graduation rate of 36%, alumni earn a median of $63,435 ten years after graduation.

95% accepted 36% graduate $63,435 earnings

Pennsylvania's full profile

#23

Oakland City University

Oakland City, IN · 499 students · Private nonprofit

With 499 students, Oakland City University creates a vibrant community focused on educational and personal growth. The school has a high graduation rate of 68%, signaling strong student support and engagement among peers and faculty.

83% accepted 68% graduate $43,283 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#24

Defiance College

Defiance, OH · 499 students · Private nonprofit

48% accepted 34% graduate $49,351 earnings

Defiance's full profile

#25

Baptist University of Florida

Graceville, FL · 360 students · Private nonprofit

Graceville, FL hosts this private nonprofit college with 360 students. A graduation rate of 62% suggests that many students find success in completing their degrees in a nurturing setting.

36% accepted 62% graduate $42,836 earnings

Baptist's full profile

#26

Hannibal-LaGrange University

Hannibal, MO · 410 students · Private nonprofit

Hannibal-LaGrange University has a welcoming atmosphere with a 73% acceptance rate. Graduates earn a median of $42,643 at 10 years, with a 47% graduation rate indicating a supportive community for students pursuing their degrees.

73% accepted 47% graduate $42,643 earnings

Hannibal-LaGrange's full profile

#27

Bellin College

Green Bay, WI · 372 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Green Bay, WI, Bellin College has a small student body of 372. The 68% graduation rate reflects the college's focus on supporting students in health-related fields, leading to good outcomes for graduates.

97% accepted 68% graduate $76,222 earnings

Bellin's full profile

#28

Eureka College

Eureka, IL · 522 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 41% graduate $51,641 earnings

Eureka's full profile

#29

The King's University

Southlake, TX · 251 students · Private nonprofit

At The King's University in Southlake, TX, the student population is just 251. The college emphasizes a personal education experience, with a graduation rate of 44%, indicating room for improvement in student success rates.

61% accepted 44% graduate $41,471 earnings

York University

York, NE · 428 students · Private nonprofit

Only 428 students attend York University, creating a tight-knit community. With a graduation rate of 44%, students may find personalized support from faculty and peers. The median earnings for graduates reach $44,130 after ten years, suggesting potential for a solid return on investment.

52% accepted 44% graduate $44,130 earnings

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Shenango

Sharon, PA · 256 students · Public

Sharon, PA is home to Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Shenango, where the student body consists of 256 individuals. With a graduation rate of 33%, this campus faces challenges in student retention, but it offers a familiar Penn State experience in a more intimate setting.

92% accepted 33% graduate $63,435 earnings

Pennsylvania's full profile

#32

Trinity Baptist College

Jacksonville, FL · 386 students · Private nonprofit

With 386 students, Trinity Baptist College offers an intimate learning environment. Graduates earn a median of $37,275 ten years after leaving, providing a glimpse into potential career paths for students.

53% accepted 38% graduate $37,275 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#33

Maranatha Baptist University

Watertown, WI · 541 students · Private nonprofit

72% accepted 65% graduate $45,593 earnings

Maranatha's full profile

#34

Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

Arecibo, PR · 273 students · Private nonprofit

Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo serves 273 students, creating a close-knit community. A 47% graduation rate reflects a supportive environment, with alumni earning a median of $24,908 after a decade.

94% accepted 47% graduate $24,908 earnings

Pontifical's full profile

#35

Lourdes University

Sylvania, OH · 543 students · Private nonprofit

74% accepted 35% graduate $48,150 earnings

Lourdes's full profile

#36

College of the Atlantic

Bar Harbor, ME · 353 students · Private nonprofit

70% accepted 69% graduate $40,264 earnings

College's full profile

#37

Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary

Ankeny, IA · 405 students · Private nonprofit

The net price averages $16,282 after aid. Graduates earn around $40,650 at ten years post-graduation, with a median debt of $12,971. This college may suit traditional students looking for a supportive, faith-oriented environment.

68% accepted 64% graduate $40,650 earnings

Millsaps College

Jackson, MS · 549 students · Private nonprofit

43% accepted 56% graduate $53,848 earnings

Millsaps's full profile

#39

Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science

Los Angeles, CA · 282 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $83,438 at 10 years post-graduation, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science attracts students interested in healthcare careers. The school has a 37% graduation rate, reflecting commitment to students in a small learning environment focused on medical education.

39% accepted 37% graduate $83,438 earnings

Charles's full profile

#40

Albizu University-Miami

Miami, FL · 287 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Miami, Albizu University-Miami emphasizes accessibility with a 76% acceptance rate. Graduates earn a median of $41,544 within a decade, and the school's graduation rate is 48%, signaling a focus on student success in their chosen fields.

76% accepted 48% graduate $41,544 earnings

Albizu's full profile

#41

Pennsylvania State University-Penn State New Kensington

New Kensington, PA · 416 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 26%, Pennsylvania State University-Penn State New Kensington serves as a community hub for students. Graduates earn a median of $63,435 at 10 years, making it appealing for those focused on maximizing career potential.

95% accepted 26% graduate $63,435 earnings

Pennsylvania's full profile

#42

Warner Pacific University

Portland, OR · 375 students · Private nonprofit

Warner Pacific University has a graduation rate of 66%, which indicates a strong support system for its 375 students. Nestled in Portland, this institution offers a unique blend of urban experiences and a close-knit campus atmosphere.

71% accepted 66% graduate $55,204 earnings

Warner's full profile

#43

Southwestern Adventist University

Keene, TX · 570 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 47% graduate $52,946 earnings

Southwestern's full profile

#44

Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music

San Juan, PR · 307 students · Public

With only 307 students, the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music fosters an intimate atmosphere for aspiring musicians. A graduation rate of 62% indicates a strong commitment to student success. Graduates earn a median of $19,474 after ten years, reflecting the unique niche this school serves.

78% accepted 62% graduate $19,474 earnings

Puerto's full profile

#45

Central Baptist College

Conway, AR · 484 students · Private nonprofit

Central Baptist College has a small student body of 484. This intimate setting can foster close relationships between students and faculty, making it easier to receive personalized support throughout your education.

63% accepted 35% graduate $46,789 earnings

Central's full profile

#46

Rosemont College

Rosemont, PA · 486 students · Private nonprofit

Rosemont College is home to 486 students, creating a tight-knit community. With a 49% graduation rate, many students here benefit from a supportive environment that enhances their academic journey and personal growth.

76% accepted 49% graduate $48,555 earnings

Rosemont's full profile

#47

Capitol Technology University

Laurel, MD · 315 students · Private nonprofit

Capitol Technology University has a small student body of 315, which allows for focused learning in technology fields. Graduates enjoy a significant earning potential, with median earnings at $85,035 after ten years. This high earning potential reflects the demand for skilled professionals in technology.

74% accepted 44% graduate $85,035 earnings

Capitol's full profile

#48

Bluffton University

Bluffton, OH · 582 students · Private nonprofit

67% accepted 51% graduate $49,547 earnings

Bluffton's full profile

#49

Rust College

Holly Springs, MS · 467 students · Private nonprofit

49% accepted 17% graduate $32,275 earnings

University of New Hampshire at Manchester

Manchester, NH · 443 students · Public

Located in Manchester, the University of New Hampshire at Manchester serves 443 students. Its graduation rate stands at 56%, providing a reasonable pathway to completing a degree. Graduates earn a median of $66,479 after ten years, making it an attractive option for students looking for solid career prospects.

81% accepted 56% graduate $66,479 earnings

University's full profile

Smaller colleges can yield surprising differences in outcomes. Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences stands out with the highest earnings at $63,582. In contrast, Dallas Christian College, despite its higher earnings, struggles with a 26% graduation rate, raising questions about student support and retention.

After reviewing the 50 schools, families should consider personal priorities. Look at location, program fit, and financial implications alongside this data. A college's culture and support systems are just as critical as numbers.

The journey from college to a stable life is pivotal. Families must recognize that the right college can make a significant difference in financial stability. Choosing a college is more than a number; it’s about laying a foundation for future 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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