Public Colleges with the Best Return on Investment

TBS Staff Writers
By
Updated on October 10, 2023
Read our list of accredited public colleges and universities with the best return on investment to find a real deal in education.

For most people, a public college immediately comes to mind when considering value in higher education. The compensation for living in-state often proves a deciding factor on ROI. Public colleges and universities simply offer a great deal of education for the money. But with more than one public college in a state, finding the very best return for your college dollar may be more challenging than it first appears. That’s why we’re here to help.

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Accredited Public Colleges with the Best ROI

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1

University of California, Berkeley

  • Berkeley, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of California, Berkeley offers a flexible route to a college degree. Enrollees at the public institution participate in online and on-campus classes. The school offers 1% of its programs to distance learners.

At the graduate level, degree-seekers can choose from 104 master's programs, including two online programs. Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. Faculty mentors and academic advisors work with degree-seekers to create an individualized course of study. The college offers strong career-planning resources, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The school reports a 93% graduation rate for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective applicants can connect with the financial aid office to learn about internal and external funding opportunities. Currently, 63% receive some form of financial aid.

5%

Online Enrollment

$11,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

97%

Retention Rate

$41,196

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
43,185
Institution Type
Public
#2

University of California, Los Angeles

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of California, Los Angeles provides flexible study to learners from all walks of life. Enrollees at the public institution participate in online and on-campus classes. 

At the graduate level, degree-seekers can choose from 107 master's degrees, with one online options. Enrollees can choose the learning format that best fits their needs and schedule. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to design an individualized course of study based on transfer credits, interests, and career goals. Learners prepare for the job market with resources like resume reviews, career workshops, and job fairs. Bachelor's degree-seekers can expect a graduation rate of 92%.

The financial aid office connects prospective applicants with internal and external funding opportunities. Typically, 61% receive financial aid.

5%

Online Enrollment

$11,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

97%

Retention Rate

$41,196

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
12%
Students Enrolled
44,371
Institution Type
Public
#3

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

  • Atlanta, GA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus ranks among the top online colleges. Learners enrolled at the public institution participate in online and on-campus classes offered at the main campus in Atlanta. At the school, 9% of degree-granting programs offer an online option.

At the graduate level, the college offers 50 master's programs, including 11 online programs. In both modalities, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework and supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers individualize their program by choosing concentrations, minors, and electives that match their personal and professional goals. Learners make progress toward their professional goals thanks to career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduates report a 90% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants benefit from the financial aid office, which provides guidance on funding opportunities. According to the most recent data, 69% receive financial aid.

49%

Online Enrollment

$10,258

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

97%

Retention Rate

$31,370

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
21%
Students Enrolled
36,302
Institution Type
Public
#4

University of California, San Diego

  • La Jolla, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus
  • Accredited

University of California, San Diego prioritizes flexibility in its degree-granting programs. The public institution provides both on-campus and online programs from its La Jolla campus.

Both modalities provide rigorous academics and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers can work with faculty members and their academic advisor to customize their degree path to suit their personal and professional goals. University of California, San Diego helps learners meet their professional goals through career services like workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can expect an 87% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants can contact the financial aid office to learn about their eligibility for funding. Today, 63% of learners at the institution receive financial aid.

1%

Online Enrollment

$11,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$41,196

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
38,736
Institution Type
Public
#5

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

  • Ann Arbor, MI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor offers programs designed with busy students in mind. The public institution provides both on-campus and online programs from its Ann Arbor campus. At the school, 1% of degree-granting programs offer an online option.

Undergraduates can choose from 129 bachelor's degrees, with the option to earn an online degree in one field. The college also has 140 master's degrees, including four online options. Enrollees can choose the learning format that best fits their needs and schedule. Customization options such as electives, minors, and concentrations let degree-seekers create an individualized course of study. Career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs help learners reach their professional goals. Undergraduate degree-seekers can expect a 93% graduation rate.

The financial aid office connects enrollees with funding opportunities to help offset degree costs. Currently, 65% of enrollees receive a financial aid award.

1%

Online Enrollment

$16,212

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

97%

Retention Rate

$52,669

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
48,090
Institution Type
Public
#6

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

  • San Luis Obispo, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo offers a flexible route to a college degree. From its main campus in San Luis Obispo, the public institution provides in-person and online programs. The school offers 2% of its programs to distance learners.

At the graduate level, the college offers 46 master's programs, including two online master's programs. In both modalities, the institution encourages rigorous coursework and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to customize their program based on unique interests and career goals. Learners make progress toward their professional goals thanks to career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The school's undergraduate programs report a graduation rate of 82%.

Prospective applicants can explore their eligibility for funding opportunities to help offset degree costs. According to the most recent data, learners with financial aid make up 63% of the student body.

8%

Online Enrollment

$ 5,742

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

94%

Retention Rate

$17,622

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
28%
Students Enrolled
21,426
Institution Type
Public
#7

Purdue University-Main Campus

  • West Lafayette, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Purdue University-Main Campus stands out for its exceptional programs. Located in West Lafayette, Indiana, the public institution grants degrees in person and online. Currently, 9% of programs offer online learning formats.

At the graduate level, the college has 81 master's degrees, including 20 online programs. Enrollees in both modalities benefit from rigorous study and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers can work with faculty members and their academic advisor to customize their degree path to suit their personal and professional goals. Career resources include workshops, resume feedback, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduates report an 82% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants can contact the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities. Currently, 65% of enrollees receive a financial aid award.

22%

Online Enrollment

$ 9,208

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

91%

Retention Rate

$28,010

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
45,500
Institution Type
Public
#8

Texas A&M University-College Station

  • College Station, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

Texas A&M University-College Station provides flexible study to learners from all walks of life. The public institution enrolls learners on its College Station campus and in online programs. At the school, 14% of degree-granting programs offer an online option.

Undergraduates major in 112 subjects, with the option to earn two bachelor's degrees online. The college also has 121 master's degrees, with 38 master's programs offered online. Both modalities offer rigorous academics and supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers work with faculty members and academic advisors to customize the degree based on their personal and professional goals. Texas A&M University-College Station offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals. Undergraduate degree-seekers hold an 82% graduation rate at the school.

Prospective applicants can connect with the financial aid office to learn more about internal and external funding opportunities. The school reports that 76% of the student body receives financial aid.

14%

Online Enrollment

$ 7,941

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$34,190

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
68,726
Institution Type
Public
#9

University of California, Irvine

  • Irvine, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of California, Irvine stands out for its commitment to higher education. The public institution enrolls learners online and on campus. 

At the graduate level, the school offers 105 master's programs, with one program offered online. In both modalities, enrollees take rigorous classes and benefit from a supportive learning community. Degree-seekers work with faculty members and academic advisors to customize the degree based on their personal and professional goals. University of California, Irvine helps learners reach their career goals with institutional resources such as career workshops and job fairs. The school reports an 84% graduation rate for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective applicants work with financial aid advisors to identify scholarship and grant opportunities. The school reports that 63% of learners receive financial aid.

15%

Online Enrollment

$11,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

94%

Retention Rate

$41,196

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
27%
Students Enrolled
36,908
Institution Type
Public
#10

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

  • Seattle, WA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Washington-Seattle Campus stands out for its exceptional programs. Enrollees at the public institution take classes on the Seattle campus and online. The school's programs include 2% which offer an online option.

Undergraduate students can choose from 245 bachelor’s programs, with two programs supported online. At the graduate level, the college offers 273 master's programs, including 10 online master's programs. Both modalities prioritize academic rigor while providing a supportive learning community. The programs offer a great deal of flexibility for degree-seekers to customize their course of study based on career goals. Learners make progress toward their professional goals thanks to career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can expect an 84% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants connect with financial aid advisors to learn more about scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Learners receiving financial aid make up 57% of the student body.

8%

Online Enrollment

$10,370

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

95%

Retention Rate

$37,071

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
47,576
Institution Type
Public
#11

California State University, Long Beach

  • Long Beach, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

California State University, Long Beach stands out for its commitment to higher education. The public institution offers both in-person and online programs. Currently, 2% of programs offer online learning formats.

At the graduate level, the school operates 70 master's programs, three of which are offered online. Enrollees in both modalities benefit from rigorous study and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers individualize their program by choosing concentrations, minors, and electives that match their personal and professional goals. Learners hone their skills for the job market thanks to resources like career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. As a leader in education, the college reports a 74% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities to pay for their degree. Currently, 81% receive some form of financial aid.

30%

Online Enrollment

$ 5,742

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

87%

Retention Rate

$17,622

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
39%
Students Enrolled
38,674
Institution Type
Public
#12

University of California, Santa Barbara

  • Santa Barbara, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus
  • Accredited

University of California, Santa Barbara stands out for its exceptional programs. The public institution provides both on-campus and online programs.

Both modalities provide rigorous academics and supportive learning communities. Degree-seekers work closely with faculty mentors to design an individualized course of study based on transfer credits, interests, and career goals. Career resources include workshops, resume feedback, mock interviews, and job fairs. A leader in student success, the college boasts an 83% graduation rate.

The financial aid office connects prospective applicants with internal and external funding opportunities. The school reports that 63% of learners receive financial aid.

2%

Online Enrollment

$11,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

92%

Retention Rate

$41,196

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
26,314
Institution Type
Public
#13

San Diego State University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

The flexible programs at San Diego State University appeal to learners from all walks of life. From its main campus in San Diego, California, the public institution provides in-person and online programs. Of the school's total programs 4% provide an online learning option.

Undergraduates participate in 92 bachelor's programs, including two programs with online enrollment options. At the graduate level, the school has 82 master's programs, six of which offer online enrollment. Enrollees can choose the format that matches their learning style and schedule. Degree-seekers can work with faculty members and their academic advisor to customize their degree path to suit their personal and professional goals. San Diego State University offers strong career-planning resources, including career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. As a leader in education, the college reports a 73% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants may be eligible for internal and external funding opportunities to pay for their degree. Currently, 60% of enrollees receive a financial aid award.

50%

Online Enrollment

$ 5,742

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

89%

Retention Rate

$17,622

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
34%
Students Enrolled
35,544
Institution Type
Public
#14

University of Maryland-College Park

  • College Park, MD
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

The flexible programs at University of Maryland-College Park offer a variety of options for degree-seekers. The public institution offers both in-person and online programs. At the school, 1% of programs provide online enrollment options.

At the graduate level, the college offers 132 master's programs, including three online master's programs. Both modalities prioritize academic rigor while providing a supportive learning community. The programs prioritize customization to let degree-seekers design a course of study that matches their personal and professional goals. Learners hone their skills for the job market with institutional resources, including resume reviews, career counseling, and job fairs. As a leader in education, the college reports an 87% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants can contact the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities. Currently, 66% of enrollees use financial aid to pay for school.

19%

Online Enrollment

$ 8,824

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

95%

Retention Rate

$34,936

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
40,743
Institution Type
Public
#15

University of California, Davis

  • Davis, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus
  • Accredited

The flexible programs at University of California, Davis appeal to learners from all walks of life. The public institution grants degrees in person and online.

Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers customize the program based on their personal or professional goals by coordinating with faculty mentors and academic advisors. Learners prepare for the job market with resources like resume reviews, career workshops, and job fairs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can expect an 87% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants can explore their eligibility for funding opportunities to help offset degree costs. The school reports that 66% of the student body receives financial aid.

5%

Online Enrollment

$11,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

92%

Retention Rate

$41,196

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
39%
Students Enrolled
38,634
Institution Type
Public
#16

University of Florida-Online

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Online
  • Accredited

The flexible programs at University of Florida-Online offer a variety of options for degree-seekers. From its campus in Gainesville, the public institution enrolls learners in person and online. Of the school's total programs, 100% provide an online learning option.

Undergraduates can choose from 21 bachelor's degrees. Enrollees benefit from several learning formats that fit their schedule and needs. Degree-seekers customize the program based on their personal or professional goals by coordinating with faculty mentors and academic advisors. University of Florida-Online offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals.

Interested enrollees can connect with financial aid advisors to learn more about scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid. Learners receiving financial aid make up 90% of the student body.

N/A

Online Enrollment

$ 3,358

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

63%

Retention Rate

$15,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
3,926
Institution Type
Public
#17

San Jose State University

  • San Jose, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

San Jose State University appeals to students with a variety of needs. The public institution welcomes degree-seekers to its California campus while also offering online programs. Currently, 2% of programs offer online learning formats.

The college also provides 71 master’s programs, four of which are available online. Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. The programs provide customization options such as electives and concentrations so degree-seekers can meet their personal and professional goals. San Jose State University offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals. The school reports a 64% graduation rate for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective applicants can explore their eligibility for funding opportunities to help offset degree costs. Today, 73% of learners at the institution receive financial aid.

35%

Online Enrollment

$ 5,742

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

87%

Retention Rate

$17,622

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
36,085
Institution Type
Public
#18

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College

  • New York, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus
  • Accredited

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College stands out for its exceptional programs. Learners enrolled at the public institution take classes on the New York campus and online.

Both modalities prioritize academic rigor while providing a supportive learning community. Faculty mentors and academic advisors help degree-seekers customize the course of study based on their interests and goals. Career resources include workshops, resume feedback, mock interviews, and job fairs. At the school, the graduation rate is 70%.

The financial aid office connects enrollees with funding opportunities to help offset degree costs. The school reports that 77% of learners receive financial aid.

7%

Online Enrollment

$ 6,930

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

89%

Retention Rate

$14,880

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
43%
Students Enrolled
18,679
Institution Type
Public
#19

University of Virginia-Main Campus

  • Charlottesville, VA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

University of Virginia-Main Campus provides diverse enrollment options for degree-seekers. Learners enrolled at the public institution participate in online and on-campus classes offered at the main campus in Charlottesville. At the school, 12% of programs are available online.

Undergraduates major in 51 fields, including two online options. The college also has 72 master's degrees, including eight online options. Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. Degree-seekers customize the program based on their personal or professional goals by coordinating with faculty mentors and academic advisors. University of Virginia-Main Campus offers career services like job fairs and workshops to help learners reach their professional goals. Bachelor's degree-seekers hold a 95% graduation rate.

Prospective applicants work with the financial aid office to create a package of aid to cover degree costs. The school reports that 57% of learners receive financial aid.

10%

Online Enrollment

$14,970

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

97%

Retention Rate

$47,833

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
24%
Students Enrolled
25,012
Institution Type
Public
#20

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

  • Minneapolis, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
  • Accredited

The flexible programs at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities appeal to learners from all walks of life. Located in Minneapolis, the public institution grants degrees in person and online. At the school, 1% of programs are available online.

The college also has 171 master's degrees, including three online options. Both modalities offer rigorous but supportive learning environments. Faculty mentors and academic advisors work with degree-seekers to create an individualized course of study. Learners benefit from institutional resources such as career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The school reports a graduation rate of 83% for its undergraduate programs.

Prospective applicants can connect with the financial aid office to learn more about internal and external funding opportunities. The school reports that 81% of the student body receives financial aid.

30%

Online Enrollment

$13,318

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

93%

Retention Rate

$31,616

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
57%
Students Enrolled
51,327
Institution Type
Public

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