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Neumont College of Computer Science graduates earn $97,827 annually, the highest among Utah's 16 urban colleges, reflecting the state's Silicon Slopes tech boom. This specialized computer science school in Salt Lake City commands a $28,979 net price but delivers strong returns in Utah's growing tech sector. The state's urban colleges span from $8,463 at Utah Valley University to $31,831 at Arizona College of Nursing, with graduation rates varying dramatically from 31.1% to 82.2%. Brigham Young University leads with an 82.2% graduation rate and solid $75,790 earnings, while maintaining a relatively low $14,487 net cost. The University of Utah, the state's flagship with 26,041 students, offers strong value at $13,172 net price and produces graduates earning $67,170. Utah's urban colleges serve over 143,000 students across cities from Salt Lake City to Saint George, with many programs aligned to the state's key industries including healthcare, technology, and outdoor recreation. The acceptance rate spread from 42.9% to 100% reflects the range from selective programs to open-access institutions serving Utah's growing population.
16
Schools
$20,526
Avg. Net Price
$52,698
Avg. Earnings
53.3%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Urban Colleges in Utah

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 City-Midsize 32,221 $14,487 82.2%
2 City-Midsize 530 $28,979 56.5%
3 City-Midsize 26,041 $13,172 63.9%
4 City-Small 15,619 $10,722 43.0%
5 City-Small 27,481 $8,463 40.7%
6 City-Midsize 704 $30,255 63.6%
7 City-Midsize 5,969 $10,003 31.1%
8 City-Midsize 882 $26,536 69.4%
9 City-Midsize 8,320 $15,265 34.2%
10 City-Small 252 $28,945 52.8%
11 City-Small 20,342 $12,869 57.3%
12 City-Midsize 4,244 $29,378 45.0%
13 City-Midsize 253 $26,463
14 City-Small 323 $31,831
15 City-Small 118
16 City-Midsize

Frequently Asked Questions

What do graduates from Utah's urban colleges typically earn?

Earnings vary significantly by program and school. Neumont College computer science graduates earn $97,827 annually, while Brigham Young University graduates average $75,790. The University of Utah produces graduates earning $67,170, and Weber State University graduates make $56,287. Healthcare programs show lower starting salaries, with nursing graduates from some schools earning around $27,126 initially.

How affordable are Utah's city-based colleges?

Net prices range from $8,463 at Utah Valley University to $31,831 at specialized nursing programs. Public universities offer strong value, with the University of Utah at $13,172 and Utah State at $12,869. Brigham Young University costs $14,487 despite being private. Specialized technical and healthcare programs typically cost $25,000-$31,000 annually but often lead to specific career outcomes.

Is admission competitive at Utah's urban colleges?

Most Utah urban colleges maintain open or moderately selective admission policies. The University of Utah accepts 89.1% of applicants, while Utah State admits 93.7%. Brigham Young University is more selective at 66.7% acceptance. Midwives College of Utah has the lowest acceptance rate at 42.9%, while several career-focused schools accept 100% of qualified applicants.

Does school size affect graduation rates in Utah cities?

Larger schools show mixed graduation outcomes. Brigham Young University, with 32,221 students, achieves an 82.2% graduation rate. The University of Utah, enrolling 26,041 students, graduates 63.9%. However, Utah Valley University's 27,481 students see a 40.7% graduation rate. Smaller specialized schools like Neumont College, with 530 students, graduate 56.5% of students but focus on specific technical skills.

Where do Utah's urban colleges connect to the job market?

Utah's urban colleges align with Silicon Slopes tech companies, healthcare systems, and outdoor recreation industries. Salt Lake City schools like Neumont and the University of Utah feed directly into tech firms. Healthcare programs in Murray and Salt Lake City serve growing medical sectors. Weber State in Ogden and Utah Valley in Orem connect to manufacturing and business services across the Wasatch Front region.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.