Best Colleges in New Hampshire

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Best Accredited Colleges

#1 Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH

$22303

96%

Established in 1769, Dartmouth College is the ninth-oldest higher education institution in the nation. This Ivy League research university is nationally recognized, and its Hanover campus boasts a mix of old and new buildings, nine libraries, and athletics facilities. Dartmouth offers rigorous undergraduate academics through dozens of departments and interdisciplinary programs in the arts and sciences, medicine, engineering, and business. Students are free to explore their interests by designing special programs, engaging in double majors, and participating in research with faculty mentors. A year-round calendar of 10-week terms allows Dartmouth students to engage on or off campus, taking time for internships, work, and/or service opportunities as desired. The university also offers a variety of graduate and professional programs. Undergraduate applicants must provide two teacher evaluations, a counselor evaluation, high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, a writing supplement, and an application fee or waiver request.

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#2 Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

$39638

49%

Southern New Hampshire University is a nonprofit private institution headquartered at a 300-acre suburban campus in Manchester. Perhaps best known for its expansive online offerings, SNHU boasts an enrollment of more than 3,000 on-site students and 80,000 online learners from around the world. Academics at SNHU are organized into six main colleges, which offer programs in the arts and sciences, business, education, engineering, technology, and aeronautics. Students can pursue undergraduate and graduate certificates as well as associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. SNHU's main campus offers residence halls, state-of-the-art facilities, and NCAA athletics. SNHU oversees more than 200 asynchronous programs online, with dedicated academic and career advisors available to ensure student success. SNHU accepts applications year round and does not require standardized test results. Online students need only supply a completed application and applicable transcripts. Campus-based students must provide a completed application, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Select programs may require additional qualifications.

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#3 University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

Durham, NH

$22888

78%

The largest school in the state, the University of New Hampshire operates as a public research university and a land-, sea-, and space-grant institution. The main campus in Durham offers NCAA athletics, Greek life, 250 student organizations, and 160 annual art performances and exhibitions.

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#4 Saint Anselm College

Manchester, NH

$31492

80%

Approximately 15,500 students attend UNH each year. Learners can choose from an extensive academic catalog of over 200 associate, bachelor's, and graduate degrees, many of which are available online. Six dual-major options are available for undergraduates in disciplines including educational studies, international affairs, and sustainability. Eligible graduate students can pursue accelerated master's degrees in more than two dozen fields, including engineering, accounting, music, and natural resources. UNH also offers more than 400 domestic and international study away programs.

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#5 University of New Hampshire at Manchester

Manchester, NH

$15097

40%

Undergraduate admission requires a completed application, a high school diploma or GED certificate, and a letter of recommendation. UNH is a test-optional university. Special program requirements apply for music, theatre, and art studio majors.

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#6 Keene State College

Keene, NH

$19494

62%

Keene State College is a public liberal arts institution that serves approximately 5,000 students each year. KSC offers affordable education opportunities, residence halls and dining, Greek life, recreational sports, and NCAA Division III athletics. Its campus is nationally recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Sierra Club for its commitment to sustainability. Students can choose from more than 40 areas of study, including architecture, film studies, and nursing. KSC's Holocaust and genocide studies program is the first four-year degree of its kind in the U.S. Another notable option is the safety and occupational health applied science program, which offers hands-on, practical coursework and internships to prepare graduates to protect the health and safety of workers in a variety of situations. A master's degree in this same discipline can be earned online. The free online application process at KSC requires submission of high school transcripts. ACT or SAT scores are required for nursing and honors program applicants.

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#7 Plymouth State University

Plymouth, NH

$22028

54%

Founded in 1871 as a teachers college -- then later re-established as a state college -- Plymouth State University gained university status and its current name in 2003. This public institution serves more than 4,000 undergraduates and 2,000 graduate students each year. Involvement opportunities include athletics, Greek life, arts and culture events, and outdoor recreation. PSU awards graduate certificates and bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Some available programs of study include adventure education, molecular biology, meteorology, historic preservation, and school counseling. Rather than dividing courses and programs into traditional departments, PSU uses an integrated cluster learning model that promotes problem solving and interdisciplinary collaboration between students of different majors. Every student completes a practical, hands-on cluster project prior to graduation. Undergraduate applicants must supply official high school transcripts or a GED certificate, an essay, and an academic recommendation. Additional requirements may apply for certain majors.

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#8 Colby-Sawyer College

New London, NH

$27130

59%

Colby-Sawyer College currently offers two online degree programs: an associate degree in liberal arts and a bachelor's degree completion pathway for licensed nurses. The associate program is designed for students who plan to ultimately apply their credits toward a four-year degree, while the RN-to-BSN program helps equip nurses with the skills and knowledge needed to assume supervisory and leadership roles. To apply to the nursing program, you must already have an associate degree or diploma in nursing, along with an active and unencumbered license to practice in New Hampshire. Full-time students can earn their bachelor's in 16 months, while part-time students generally need 2-3 years to meet all of their graduation requirements. Most coursework is asynchronous, though some classes may require live participation. To earn an online associate degree at Colby-Sawyer, you must submit high school transcripts and a writing sample. Applicants may also share ACT or SAT scores and letters of recommendation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best colleges in New Hampshire?

Some of the best colleges in New Hampshire include Dartmouth College, University of New Hampshire, Saint Anselm College, and Southern New Hampshire University.

2. How do I apply to colleges in New Hampshire?

To apply to colleges in New Hampshire, you typically need to complete an online application, submit your high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. 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 New Hampshire colleges?

New Hampshire colleges offer a wide range of majors and programs, including but not limited to business, engineering, computer science, nursing, education, liberal arts, and environmental studies. It's best to explore the websites of individual colleges to see the full list of available programs.

4. How much does tuition cost at New Hampshire colleges?

Tuition costs vary depending on the college and program you choose. On average, tuition for in-state students at public colleges in New Hampshire is around $15,000 per year, while out-of-state students may pay closer to $30,000 per year. Private colleges tend to have higher tuition rates, ranging from $30,000 to $50,000 or more per year.

5. Are there scholarships available for New Hampshire college students?

Yes, there are scholarships available for New Hampshire college students. Many colleges offer their own scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria. Additionally, there are external scholarships and grants that students can apply for. It's recommended to check with the financial aid offices of individual colleges and explore external scholarship databases.

6. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at New Hampshire colleges?

The student-to-faculty ratio varies among colleges in New Hampshire. Generally, smaller private colleges tend to have lower student-to-faculty ratios, often around 10:1 or even lower. Larger public universities may have ratios closer to 20:1 or higher. It's important to research individual colleges to find the specific student-to-faculty ratio.

7. Can I visit New Hampshire colleges before applying?

Yes, most colleges in New Hampshire encourage prospective students to visit their campuses before applying. 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. Are there on-campus housing options at New Hampshire colleges?

Yes, many colleges in New Hampshire offer on-campus housing options for students. These can include traditional dormitories, apartment-style housing, or themed living communities. Availability and housing options may vary, so it's best to contact the college's housing office for more information.

9. What extracurricular activities are available at New Hampshire colleges?

New Hampshire colleges offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports teams, clubs, student organizations, community service opportunities, and cultural events. Students can participate in activities related to their interests, hobbies, or academic pursuits. It's recommended to explore the college's website or reach out to the student affairs office for a comprehensive list of available activities.

10. What support services are available for students at New Hampshire colleges?

New Hampshire colleges provide various support services to help students succeed academically and personally. These services may include academic advising, tutoring centers, career counseling, health services, counseling and mental health resources, disability support, and campus safety programs. Students can typically access these services through the college's student affairs or student services office.