Skip to main content
WyoTech stands apart among Wyoming's small colleges with an 84.9% graduation rate and the highest earning potential at $50,167 annually, though students pay $42,574 in net costs. This technical school in Laramie represents one extreme in a state where college costs range from Eastern Wyoming College's bargain $4,989 to WyoTech's premium pricing. Wyoming's energy sector drives much of this earning potential, with graduates often finding work in oil, gas, and wind energy companies that benefit from the state's tax-friendly business environment. The Hathaway Scholarship, which covers University of Wyoming tuition for qualified residents, creates interesting competition for these smaller institutions. Community colleges like Casper College serve 2,239 students at $8,759 net cost, while Northern Wyoming Community College District graduates earn $40,477 on average. These schools prepare students for Wyoming's key industries including tourism, agriculture, and energy production, where technical skills command solid wages in a state with no income tax.
8
Schools
$12,724
Avg. Net Price
$40,722
Avg. Earnings
45.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Small Colleges in Wyoming

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 489 $4,989 50.7%
2 1,204 $42,574 84.9%
3 1,607 $8,890 42.9%
4 826 $7,394 43.8%
5 2,239 $8,759 39.1%
6 2,563 $7,143 31.3%
7 981 $13,622 40.4%
8 1,289 $8,420 33.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes WyoTech different from other Wyoming small colleges?

WyoTech achieves an 84.9% graduation rate, nearly double most Wyoming community colleges, while graduates earn $50,167 annually. However, students pay $42,574 in net costs, making it the most expensive small college in the state by a significant margin.

How do graduation rates compare across Wyoming's small colleges?

Graduation rates vary dramatically, from Laramie County Community College's 31.3% to WyoTech's 84.9%. Most community colleges fall between 33% and 51%, with technical and career-focused programs generally showing higher completion rates than traditional academic programs.

Where do Wyoming small college graduates typically find employment?

Energy companies, tourism operators, and agricultural businesses hire many graduates. Wyoming's lack of state income tax attracts employers, while graduates earning $34,402 to $50,167 benefit from lower living costs and strong demand for technical skills.

Does the Hathaway Scholarship affect small college enrollment?

The scholarship covers University of Wyoming tuition, creating competition for smaller schools. However, community colleges still attract 489 to 2,563 students each, often serving students seeking shorter programs, local access, or specific technical training unavailable at UW.

What factors explain the wide cost range from $4,989 to $42,574?

Eastern Wyoming College's $4,989 reflects typical community college pricing with state support, while WyoTech's $42,574 represents private technical education with specialized equipment and industry partnerships. Most Wyoming community colleges cluster between $7,000 and $14,000 annually.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.