Explore the top 10 public colleges in the 2025 rankings! Find the perfect university for your future, from affordable tuition to unique programs.
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Thanks to funding from state governments, public colleges and universities offer a unique blend of affordability and high-quality education.
Whether looking for a small liberal arts college or a large research institution, public universities cater to various students.
Here is a list of the top 10 highest-ranked public colleges in the 2025 Best Colleges rankings, highlighting their strengths, tuition costs, and unique programs.
1. University of Texas—Rio Grande Valley (Edinburg, TX)
- Ranking: #119 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: N/A
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 27,034
- What Makes It Unique: With a large, diverse student body, UT Rio Grande Valley offers students access to various degree programs and educational opportunities. Located in South Texas, it is a hub for cultural exchange and academic growth.
2. University of Wyoming (Laramie, WY)
- Ranking: #119 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: $7,258 (in-state), $23,668 (out-of-state)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 8,250
- What Makes It Unique: Known for its impressive outdoor education program, the University of Wyoming offers nearly 200 programs, including Alaska mountaineering and sea kayaking courses through the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS).
3. West Chester University of Pennsylvania (West Chester, PA)
- Ranking: #119 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: $10,687 (in-state), $22,261 (out-of-state)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 14,344
- What Makes It Unique: With a rich history dating back to 1871, West Chester University is known for its Greek life and student involvement. The university fosters a close-knit campus community with more than 300 student organizations.
4. West Virginia University (Morgantown, WV)
- Ranking: #119 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: $9,648 (in-state), $27,360 (out-of-state)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 19,059
- What Makes It Unique: Home to more than 400 student organizations, West Virginia University is known for its community service programs through the Center for Service and Learning. Students can also participate in Division I sports and a vibrant Greek life.
5. Winston-Salem State University (Winston-Salem, NC)
- Ranking: #119 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: $6,057 (in-state), $16,713 (out-of-state)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 4,244
- What Makes It Unique: With a small student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, Winston-Salem State University provides students personalized attention and support. Founded in 1892, it is one of the top historically Black universities in the country.
6. Kent State University (Kent, OH)
- Ranking: #126 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: $13,232 (in-state), $23,082 (out-of-state)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 20,485
- What Makes It Unique: South of Cleveland, Kent State offers over 200 campus organizations, including leadership programs and community service clubs. Students can choose from nearly 300 academic programs, including the unique peace and conflict studies major.
7. North Carolina A&T State University (Greensboro, NC)
- Ranking: #126 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: $6,733 (in-state), $20,243 (out-of-state)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 12,216
- What Makes It Unique: As a historically Black university, North Carolina A&T is home to the Aggies, a strong Division I sports program. With a rich legacy, the school also emphasizes technology and agriculture programs.
8. North Dakota State University (Fargo, ND)
- Ranking: #126 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: N/A
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,791
- What Makes It Unique: Located in Fargo, North Dakota State University offers over 100 academic majors and is home to a renowned Division I sports program. Alums include Alf Clausen, Emmy Award-winning music director for The Simpsons.
9. Sam Houston State University (Huntsville, TX)
- Ranking: #126 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: $11,370 (in-state), $23,670 (out-of-state)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 18,179
- What Makes It Unique: Founded in 1879, Sam Houston State University offers over 200 academic programs. Its criminal solid justice and forensic science programs attract students nationwide.
10. University of New Mexico (Albuquerque, NM)
- Ranking: #126 in Top Public Schools (tie)
- Tuition: $10,298 (in-state), $33,217 (out-of-state)
- Undergraduate Enrollment: 17,073
- What Makes It Unique: Founded in 1889, the University of New Mexico is known for its diverse student body and vibrant campus life. Located in the heart of Albuquerque, the university offers a variety of academic programs, including vital research initiatives in aerospace and engineering.
Why Choose a Public University?
Public colleges and universities stand out for their affordable tuition rates, especially for in-state students.
They also offer various degree programs, from specialized fields like outdoor leadership and criminal justice to unique programs like peace and conflict studies.
In addition to academics, public universities often provide ample extracurricular opportunities—from sports and Greek life to research and community service. Students can grow academically while engaging with their local communities and pursuing personal interests.
Trivia
Did you know? Public universities serve over 70% of all undergraduate students in the U.S., making them a cornerstone of higher education.
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