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Western Governors University stands out among Utah's suburban colleges with its massive enrollment of 135,822 students and a net price of just $10,442, making quality education accessible across the Wasatch Front. The state's six suburban institutions serve vastly different student populations, from Salt Lake Community College's 17,247 students paying $7,661 annually to specialized programs like Eagle Gate College-Layton with only 205 students but a strong 68% graduation rate. Utah's Silicon Slopes economy creates demand for both technical training and healthcare professionals, reflected in schools like Galen Health Institutes producing graduates earning $61,480. The acceptance rate of 97.4% at Joyce University shows these colleges prioritize access over selectivity. Post-graduation earnings range from $34,509 to $61,480, aligning with Utah's growing tech sector and healthcare industry that continues expanding throughout suburban Salt Lake County.
6
Schools
$21,403
Avg. Net Price
$48,638
Avg. Earnings
47.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Suburban Colleges in Utah

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Suburb-Large 135,822 $10,442 50.9%
2 Suburb-Large 17,247 $7,661 29.7%
3 Suburb-Large 371 $25,803 42.4%
4 Suburb-Large 205 $32,097 68.0%
5 Suburb-Large 63
6 Suburb-Large 1,892 $31,013 47.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Western Governors University unique among Utah suburban colleges?

Western Governors University operates as a competency-based online institution with 135,822 students, making it the largest by far. At $10,442 net price, it costs significantly less than traditional universities while maintaining a 50.9% graduation rate. Graduates earn $60,615 annually, reflecting strong career outcomes.

How do graduation rates vary across Utah's suburban colleges?

Graduation rates span from 29.7% at Salt Lake Community College to 68% at Eagle Gate College-Layton. The wide range reflects different institutional missions, with community colleges serving transfer students and career schools focusing on job-ready skills training.

Is healthcare education prominent in Utah's suburban college market?

Three schools focus specifically on healthcare training. Galen Health Institutes graduates earn $61,480, the highest among all schools. Joyce University enrolls 1,892 nursing students with 97.4% acceptance, while Eagle Gate College emphasizes allied health programs.

What career outcomes can students expect after graduating?

Graduate earnings range from $34,509 at Fortis College to $61,480 at Galen Health Institutes. The $27,000 spread reflects program focus, with healthcare and technical degrees commanding higher salaries in Utah's expanding Silicon Slopes job market.

Where do most suburban college students in Utah attend school?

Salt Lake City area dominates with four institutions, including the massive Western Governors University and Salt Lake Community College with 17,247 students. Layton and Draper each host one specialized college, serving the broader Wasatch Front metropolitan region.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.