Best Colleges in Indiana

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Best Accredited Colleges

#1 University of Notre Dame
location Notre Dame, IN
tuition $27453
acceptance_rate 95%
A major Catholic college located just outside of South Bend, the University of Notre Dame ranks among the country's top colleges. The school offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in fields such as architecture, arts and letters, business, engineering, and science. Graduate students can select from multiple law degrees and several interdisciplinary doctoral programs in peace studies, which combine the field with related subjects such as history, anthropology, and political science. ND boasts one of the largest endowments in the country, and students benefit from a generous selection of campus services. The college's Hesburgh Library Network encompasses general collections as well as many specialized libraries in subjects like architecture, chemistry and physics, mathematics, and medieval studies. ND also hosts cutting-edge research in many fields, including analytical sciences and computer engineering, chemical and biomolecular engineering, global health, and nuclear physics.
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#2 Butler University
location Indianapolis, IN
tuition $38051
acceptance_rate 79%
A private college based in Indianapolis, Butler University enrolls more than 5,000 students in undergraduate and graduate programs through six schools and colleges. Learners can pursue more than 65 undergraduate majors in fields such as the arts, education, business, and pharmacy and health sciences. The school draws many applicants for its strong internships, service-learning opportunities, and study abroad programs, as well as its support services and 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Butler maintains an international focus and encourages students to recognize the value of cross-cultural communication in all academic fields. Undergraduates complete at least two courses in global and historical studies, with options including frontiers in Latin America, South Asian civilizations, and modern Middle East and North Africa. The college also offers several academic programs with a global focus, including peace and conflict studies, anthropology, Asian studies, international studies, and international business.
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#3 University of Evansville
location Evansville, IN
tuition $21046
acceptance_rate 72%
Serving approximately 2,500 students annually, the University of Evansville offers a liberal arts education primarily at the undergraduate level, though the school hosts a small number of graduate programs. This private college offers more than 60 undergraduate majors and minors in topics such as art history, British studies, ethics and social change, and religion. Graduate students can pursue degrees including public health, athletic training, and public service administration, along with two doctorates in physical therapy and nursing practice. UE operates a global education center at Harlaxton College in Grantham, England. UE also offers a variety of additional study abroad experiences through membership in the International Student Exchange program, enabling students to travel to Africa, Europe, Asia, and South America.
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A Christian college affiliated with the Wesleyan Church, Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion ranks as the largest private college in Indiana, serving more than 13,000 students annually. IWU operates a main campus in Marion along with several regional education centers throughout Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, offering degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Though associated with the Protestant Wesleyan Church, IWU enrolls students of all Christian backgrounds, with more than 80 denominations represented. IWU undergraduates can choose from more than 80 majors, including both secular and nonsecular options such as applied music, Christian education, exercise science, social work, and worship arts. The Marion campus primarily serves undergraduates, though IWU does offer a selection of graduate programs in fields including criminal justice, education, health sciences, nursing, and religious and theological studies. For added flexibility, learners can typically combine on-campus courses with online learning.
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#5 Indiana University-Kokomo
location Kokomo, IN
tuition $7935
acceptance_rate 39%
Indiana University Kokomo provides an affordable education to both its online and on-campus students. The average annual cost of a degree at the university is just $7,700, and IU Kokomo offers more than 800 scholarships each year to help further reduce the cost of attendance. Students living in one of eight Midwestern states may also qualify for in-state tuition rates. Six undergraduate programs at the university can be completed entirely online, including bachelor's degrees in nursing, informatics, and medical imaging technology. Students may also pursue a bachelor of general studies and customize their learning experience through diverse online elective classes. The general studies bachelor's is also available in an accelerated format that features eight-week classes and condensed semesters. First-year applicants must submit high school or GED transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. IU Kokomo does not set minimum academic requirements for admission, and instead takes a holistic approach to reviewing student applications.
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Formed in 1969 through the merger of multiple extension programs from both Indiana University and Purdue University, Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis now ranks among the largest public colleges in the state and enrolls around 30,000 students each year. The school hosts more than 450 academic and professional programs at all levels. IUPUI is home to 17 academic schools and colleges, including art and design, informatics and computing, liberal arts, public health, and social work. IUPUI's size offers a variety of opportunities for learners, including the RISE initiative, which encourages professional and intellectual growth activities. Involving research, international travel, service-learning, and experiential learning opportunities, these unique personal and academic experiences deepen student learning and encourage personal development. Students might assist faculty with research, spend a semester studying in China, work alongside a community organization, or participate in an internship related to their major.
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#7 Indiana University-East
location Richmond, IN
tuition $7971
acceptance_rate 36%
Indiana University East offers online bachelor's degree completion programs in applied health science, communication studies, mathematics, and nursing. Online students at the university may also pursue one of three graduate certificates to develop specific professional skills or to earn credits that can be applied toward a master's degree. IU East caters exclusively to online learners who have previously taken some college-level courses; as a result, applicants do not need to submit high school or GED transcripts. The school does not explicitly require entrance exam scores for admission, though you may need to share results from the ACT or SAT to qualify for certain scholarships. You must also maintain at least a 2.0 GPA in your college coursework to receive transfer credit. Students at IU East receive approximately $30 million in financial aid each year. While many scholarships and grants are reserved for recent high school graduates and on-campus learners, the university does provide financial support to community college transfer students and first-generation students.
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#8 Huntington University
location Huntington, IN
tuition $19219
acceptance_rate 60%
Huntington University offers individual online courses during the summer; online degree completion programs for adult learners; and three online master's programs in counseling, organizational leadership, and pastoral leadership. Online students may also earn a master's degree in education at the university by taking a small portion of their courses on campus. Degree completion programs at HU allow students to quickly earn a bachelor's in areas such as nonprofit leadership, criminal justice, and social work. Online classes run for five weeks, and students typically take just one course at a time. Additionally, all programs at HU integrate a Christian worldview. Applying to a degree completion program requires an associate degree, while admission to a graduate program requires a bachelor's degree. HU does not require prospective students at any level to take an entrance exam. Roughly 90% of admitted students receive some form of financial aid, with HU awarding approximately $12 million in scholarships and grants each year.
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#9 Purdue University-Main Campus
location West Lafayette, IN
tuition $12117
acceptance_rate 78%
A major public college based in West Lafayette, Purdue University ranks among the largest colleges in Indiana with more than 43,000 students enrolled each year. Known for cutting-edge research activity, the school stands at the forefront of key fields such as agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. Purdue also features some of the country's top programs in engineering, aeronautical engineering, aviation technology, and spaceflight technology. The school counts more than 20 astronauts among alumni, including Neil Armstrong. Purdue's English department boasts a national reputation for its Online Writing Lab (OWL), which launched in 1994. With resources for all types of academic writing, the Purdue OWL is a model for many schools' online writing resources. Purdue also delivers a major distance education program with degrees at all academic levels. The school offers several additional master's programs exclusively online, including options in aviation management and construction management.
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Students at Indiana University Northwest can pursue online bachelor's degrees in informatics, labor studies, business, and medical imaging technology. The university also offers hybrid programs in philosophy, political science, and history, along with a fully online master of arts in English. The university ensures that all students, regardless of how they choose to study, receive a high-quality education. All online classes are designed by full-time faculty at IU Northwest, and all online instructors participate in an intensive training program and ongoing professional development opportunities. Additionally, the university's overall student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1 helps guarantee small class sizes and personalized instruction. Undergraduate applicants to IU Northwest must submit high school transcripts and standardized test scores. Admitted freshmen at the university generally have a high school GPA of at least 2.0, rank in the upper half of their graduating class, and receive scores above the median on either the ACT or SAT.
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best colleges in Indiana?

Indiana is home to several prestigious colleges and universities. Some of the top institutions in the state include:

  • Indiana University Bloomington
  • Purdue University
  • University of Notre Dame
  • Butler University
  • DePauw University

2. How do I apply to colleges in Indiana?

To apply to colleges in Indiana, you typically need to complete an online application form, submit your high school transcripts, provide standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), write an essay, and obtain letters of recommendation. Each college may have specific requirements, so it's important to check their websites for detailed instructions.

3. What majors and programs are offered at Indiana colleges?

Indiana colleges offer a wide range of majors and programs to cater to various interests and career goals. Some popular areas of study include business, engineering, computer science, nursing, education, and liberal arts. It's best to explore the websites of individual colleges to see the full list of majors and programs they offer.

4. How much does tuition cost at Indiana colleges?

Tuition costs vary depending on the college and program you choose. Public universities in Indiana generally have lower tuition rates for in-state residents compared to out-of-state students. Private colleges tend to have higher tuition fees. It's recommended to visit the websites of specific colleges to find accurate and up-to-date information on tuition and fees.

5. Are there scholarships and financial aid available for Indiana colleges?

Yes, many Indiana colleges offer scholarships and financial aid to help students afford their education. These can be merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, or a combination of both. Additionally, federal and state financial aid programs, such as grants and student loans, are available to eligible students. It's advisable to contact the financial aid offices of the colleges you are interested in for more information.

6. What is the student life like at Indiana colleges?

Student life at Indiana colleges is vibrant and diverse. Most colleges have a wide range of student organizations, clubs, and sports teams that cater to various interests. There are also opportunities for community service, internships, and study abroad programs. Additionally, many colleges host events, concerts, and cultural activities to enrich the student experience.

7. Can I visit the campuses of Indiana colleges?

Yes, most Indiana colleges welcome prospective students to visit their campuses. Campus visits provide an opportunity to tour the facilities, meet with admissions counselors, attend information sessions, and get a feel for the campus environment. It's recommended to schedule a visit in advance through the college's admissions office.

8. What are the admission requirements for Indiana colleges?

Admission requirements vary among colleges in Indiana. Generally, colleges consider factors such as high school GPA, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. Some colleges may have additional requirements for specific programs or majors. It's important to review the admission criteria of each college you are interested in to ensure you meet the requirements.

9. Can I transfer credits from another college to an Indiana college?

Yes, many Indiana colleges accept transfer credits from other accredited institutions. The transfer credit policies vary among colleges, so it's advisable to contact the admissions or registrar's office of the specific college you are interested in to understand their transfer credit evaluation process.

10. What resources are available for career development at Indiana colleges?

Indiana colleges typically offer career development services to assist students in exploring career options, finding internships, and preparing for job searches. These services may include career counseling, resume writing assistance, mock interviews, job fairs, and networking events. Students can also access online job boards and alumni networks to connect with potential employers.