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Rural Colleges in New Hampshire

5 schools in New Hampshire. See our methodology.

New Hampshire's rural colleges show remarkable affordability contrasts, with net prices spanning from $15,922 at Magdalen College to $30,299 at New England College. Franklin Pierce University graduates earn the highest median salary at $53,353, while the state's tax-free environment helps stretch those earnings further. Colby-Sawyer College maintains the strongest graduation rate at 61.6% among these five institutions. The acceptance rates remain notably accessible, with New England College accepting 99.94% of applicants. These schools serve students across small towns from Warner to Rindge, preparing graduates for New Hampshire's growing healthcare and technology sectors. River Valley Community College offers a practical pathway with 610 students paying just $20,455 annually. The state's defense contractors and medical facilities actively recruit from these programs, while the absence of income tax makes New Hampshire an attractive place to start careers after graduation.
5
Schools
$23,888
Avg. Net Price
$44,486
Avg. Earnings
44.7%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Rural Colleges in New Hampshire

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Rural-Remote 778 $25,857 61.6%
2 Rural-Fringe 610 $20,455 31.4%
3 Rural-Distant 58 $15,922 53.3%
4 Rural-Distant 1,055 $26,906 46.1%
5 Rural-Distant 980 $30,299 31.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Colby-Sawyer College stand out among rural New Hampshire schools?

Colby-Sawyer maintains the highest graduation rate at 61.6% while serving 778 students in New London. The college charges $25,857 net price and graduates earn $46,474 median salary. Its 78% acceptance rate balances selectivity with accessibility.

How do graduation rates vary among these rural colleges?

Graduation rates range dramatically from 31.1% at New England College to 61.6% at Colby-Sawyer College. River Valley Community College and New England College both struggle with 31% completion rates, while Magdalen College achieves 53.3% despite its small 58-student enrollment.

Is attending a small rural college like Magdalen financially smart?

Magdalen College offers the lowest net price at $15,922 for 58 students in Warner. Despite graduating just over half its students at 53.3%, the school maintains a 98% acceptance rate and produces graduates earning $35,809 annually.

Does Franklin Pierce University justify its higher costs?

Franklin Pierce charges $26,906 annually but delivers the highest graduate earnings at $53,353. With 1,055 students and a 46.1% graduation rate, the Rindge campus accepts 92.7% of applicants while preparing students for New Hampshire's growing economy.

Where can students find the most accessible admissions in rural New Hampshire?

New England College accepts 99.94% of applicants, making it nearly open admission for 980 students in Henniker. At $30,299 net price, it costs the most but maintains the most accessible entry point among these rural options.

Related

Rural Colleges Nationally All Colleges in New Hampshire Cheapest Programs in New Hampshire

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.