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Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology graduates earn $101,253 annually, the highest among Indiana's 34 urban colleges, while charging $40,665 in net costs. This engineering powerhouse reflects Indiana's manufacturing strength, preparing students for careers at companies like Cummins and Rolls-Royce. The state's urban campuses span from affordable community college options at $6,276 to specialized programs costing over $40,000. Graduation rates vary dramatically, from Ivy Tech's 36.6% to Chamberlain University's perfect 100% completion rate. Indiana's 21st Century Scholars program helps bridge these cost gaps by covering tuition for qualifying students. Major employers like Eli Lilly in Indianapolis drive demand for healthcare and pharmaceutical programs, while the state's automotive and manufacturing sectors create pathways for engineering graduates. Purdue's main campus enrolls nearly 40,000 students and maintains an 83.1% graduation rate, anchoring the state's reputation for technical education. Indianapolis serves as the educational center with multiple campuses, including Indiana University-Indianapolis at $11,408 net cost and Butler University at $38,472. These urban settings provide internship opportunities and direct connections to Indiana's major industries.
34
Schools
$20,006
Avg. Net Price
$51,706
Avg. Earnings
56.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Urban Colleges in Indiana

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 City-Small 39,637 $13,945 83.1%
2 City-Large 177 $36,219 100.0%
3 City-Small 36,571 $15,342 81.2%
4 City-Small 2,224 $40,665 81.7%
5 City-Small 13,770 $15,898 63.3%
6 City-Large 4,383 $38,472 80.2%
7 City-Large 160 $30,293 59.1%
8 City-Large 16,582 $11,408 53.9%
9 City-Large 145 $14,989 69.1%
10 City-Small 31,502 $12,267 47.6%
11 City-Large 54,926 $6,544 36.6%
12 City-Small 2,308 $6,276 44.7%
13 City-Midsize 1,477 $20,230 71.3%
14 City-Small 1,070 $22,144 49.4%
15 City-Large 3,147 $18,748 55.8%
16 City-Small 6,620 $12,188 41.1%
17 City-Large 1,034 $26,584 63.5%
18 City-Large 265 $28,374 30.8%
19 City-Large 5,450 $11,513 32.5%
20 City-Large 2,336 $23,594 60.9%
21 City-Midsize 3,807 $8,364 35.7%
22 City-Large 1,599 $20,361 60.7%
23 City-Large 1,004 $29,530 52.9%
24 City-Large 164 $13,879 33.3%
25 City-Small 761 $15,725 60.5%
26 City-Large 2,446 $19,086
27 City-Small 1,069 $19,726 57.2%
28 City-Large 1,361 $21,318 31.4%
29 City-Large 124 $23,193 53.6%
30 City-Midsize 289 $23,304
31 City-Large 277
32 City-Large
33 City-Large
34 City-Small

Frequently Asked Questions

What engineering programs offer the highest earning potential in Indiana cities?

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology leads with graduates earning $101,253 annually, followed by Butler University at $77,235. Purdue's main campus produces engineering graduates earning $72,424 on average. These programs connect directly to Indiana's manufacturing sector, with companies like Cummins and Rolls-Royce recruiting heavily from state engineering schools.

How much do urban college costs vary across Indiana?

Net costs range from $6,276 at Indiana University-Kokomo to $40,665 at Rose-Hulman Institute. Ivy Tech Community College offers the most affordable urban option at $6,544, while private institutions like Butler University charge $38,472. The 21st Century Scholars program helps qualifying students cover tuition costs at participating schools.

Is Indianapolis a good city for college students?

Indianapolis hosts eight different colleges with varied specialties and costs. Major employers like Eli Lilly, Anthem, and numerous healthcare systems provide internships and job opportunities. Students can choose from Indiana University-Indianapolis at $11,408, Butler University at $38,472, or specialized programs like Aviation Institute of Maintenance.

Does Indiana University-Bloomington accept most applicants?

Indiana University-Bloomington accepts 82.41% of applicants while maintaining an 81.2% graduation rate. With 36,571 enrolled students and graduates earning $63,742 annually, it offers strong value at $15,342 net cost. The campus provides access to Indiana's major employment markets through its location and alumni network.

What healthcare programs exist in Indiana's urban areas?

Chamberlain University-Indiana achieves a perfect 100% graduation rate in Indianapolis, with graduates earning $92,405 annually. Butler University also offers strong healthcare programs with graduates earning $77,235. These programs align with Indiana's healthcare sector, anchored by companies like Eli Lilly and major hospital systems in urban areas.

Where can students find the most affordable urban college options?

Indiana University-Kokomo offers the lowest net cost at $6,276 with a 44.7% graduation rate. Ivy Tech Community College provides urban access at $6,544 across multiple locations, serving 54,926 students. Purdue University Global costs $12,267 and enrolls 31,502 students, offering flexible programs for working adults in urban settings.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.