The best colleges in Indiana have the potential to help students find amazing learning opportunities. Not only that, but they can help develop young individuals into well-rounded professionals with remarkable leadership skills and increased prospects.
Since there are many post-secondary institutions in the state, you will never run out of highly competitive programs to consider. To help you get started on the right track, this guide explores the best colleges in Indiana that offer the most affordable tuition. Each of these schools meets the following criteria:
- An average annual cost of no more than $19,000
- A median starting salary no lower than $30,000
- Accredited programs by recognized bodies
Best Colleges in Indiana
1. Indiana University – East
4 Year; Richmond, IN
Average Annual Cost: $7,722
The Indiana University – East helps students find the ideal learning pathway to achieve their future goals and dreams. The campus offers more than 60 individual academic programs paired with affordable tuition and unforgettable experiences. They help make incoming first-year students feel more comfortable, offering a vibrant on-campus community for networking and creating lasting relationships.
This university has some of the best programs for returning students and working students. You will find an assortment of flexible, online study options and credit transfer options for all learners. Even if you want to work towards a graduate degree, there are multiple options available.
One of the more unique aspects of this university is that they offer a Study Abroad program. If you are taking a specialty and want to see the world, it is a phenomenal opportunity you can take advantage of. As you can imagine, this program is one of the best ways for students to gain a new perspective while bolstering their transcripts before graduation.
As one of the best universities in the state, students will have plenty of fantastic course options to consider. The Indiana University – East has over 60 majors, and some of the most common areas of interest include:
- Business
- Anthropology
- Biochemistry
- Communication Studies
- Accounting
- Counseling
- Economics
- Humanities and Social Sciences
2. Indiana University – Kokomo
4 Year; Kokomo, IN
Average Annual Cost: $9,796
The Indiana University – Kokomo is structured similarly to the school’s other campuses. Their central objective is to help students diversify their education in a welcoming, comfortable environment. Through on-campus experiences, trips, and internships, you will have plenty of unforgettable, enriching experiences you can treasure for life.
Like their East campus, the Kokomo campus offers more than 60 top-ranked courses that students can consider. There are also numerous degree options, from bachelor’s to certificate programs, that you can enroll in. With the school’s prestigious degrees, students can acquire a remarkable education for considerably less.
One of the biggest advantages of the smaller size of Indiana University – Kokomo is their class sizes. On average, most majors see a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Thanks to this, students have access to better one-on-one counseling to help them work through their courses.
There is an impressive number of programs that Indiana University – Kokomo offers. Some of the most popular areas of interest include:
- Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Nursing and Allied Health Professions
- Education
- Business
3. Calumet College of Saint Joseph
4 Year; Whiting, IN
Average Annual Cost: $10,275
Attending a university with different degree options is something every student wishes for. Calumet College of Saint Joseph has a diverse catalog of programs you will love considering. Although the school is mainly known for medical science, they have many other options.
Currently, Calumet College of Saint Joseph is home to 16 traditional degree programs. There are also 14 minors and certificate, credential, and diploma programs to consider. Some of the most popular areas of study for students include:
- Business Management
- Digital and Studio Arts
- Criminal Justice
- Biomedical Science
- Health Science
- Integrated Studies
- Human Services
- Kinesiology
Another massive benefit of attending Calumet College of Saint Joseph is its on-campus environment. Students will be able to access many different clubs and organizations, helping them foster positive relationships. You will find clubs in an assortment of interests as well as recreational activities, leadership activities, and more.
4. Indiana University – Southeast
4 Year; New Albany, IN
Average Annual Cost: $10,657
The Indiana University – Southeast offers a unique collection of programs specifically designed to help students become the best version of themselves. Whether you want to finish your existing degree or begin a new learning pathway, the school has many options. Their future-focused programs are designed to adapt to the needs of modern students interested in pursuing various fields of study.
Compared to other colleges and universities in the state, this school has many top-ranked programs. You will be able to enroll in various areas of interest, such as Global Perspectives, Environment, Communication, and Art and Design. Within each interest, there are specialties that students can consider, helping them earn a specific type of degree.
There are more than 130 undergraduate degree programs at Indiana University – Southeast and over 50 graduate programs. Even more impressive is that around 99 percent of students find themselves employed after graduation or opt to attend graduate school to further their degrees.
Another interesting thing about this university is that there are over 100 student organizations you can become a part of. With a thriving on-campus environment, students will gain access to state-of-the-art resources, such as athletic equipment and a library.
The online programs they offer are also highly beneficial, especially for students with busy schedules who cannot attend classes in person. Overall, the Indiana University – Southeast is a great option for all types of learners.
5. Vincennes University
4 Year; Vincennes, IN
Average Annual Cost: $10,845
It can be incredibly beneficial for students to have a more hands-on experience when entering university. Vincennes University always puts students first, ensuring their minds and educational capabilities are fostered and grow. The school’s primary objective is to help students see and realize what they are capable of, helping them achieve all of their goals.
Like many universities, Vincennes University offers on-campus living and many activities. Students will find multiple housing opportunities paired with phenomenal clubs and other student activities. Undoubtedly, you’ll feel like you’re a part of a community once you enroll in your program(s).
Another massive advantage of this school is that they have hands-on opportunities for students. Your classes will combine real-world and theoretical conversations about your specialty. What’s more, the school also hosts out-of-state competitions and internships in other countries worldwide.
There certainly isn’t a shortage of programs available at Vincennes University. Students will be able to explore various concepts, including:
- Zoology and Marine Biology
- Agriculture
- Forestry and Conservation
- Architectural Studies
- Construction Technology
- Pre-Art Therapy
- Broadcasting
- Fashion
- Religious Studies
- Music
- Philosophy
6. University of Phoenix – Indiana
4 Year; Indianapolis, IN
Average Annual Cost: $11,895
Finding the degree of your dreams and earning it online can be ideal for many students. At the University of Phoenix – Indiana, all degree options are available online, making them highly adaptable. Whether you’re a returning student or a working professional, the flexible courses at this school are top-rated.
One of the major tenets of the University of Phoenix – Indiana is that they understand how real-world experiences contribute to in-school learning. If you’ve earned “credits” from your life, you may be able to transfer them to your schooling, helping you earn your degree faster.
There are many degree programs available at this school, so your options are relatively endless. You’ll find over 100 online programs you can enroll in, covering more than 300 potential occupations.
As a professional, the University of Phoenix – Indiana is a fantastic way to earn a degree while working full- or part-time. At the end of your studies, you’ll have the documentation needed for a promotion or to make more money from your position.
Some of the most common areas of study at this school include:
- Nursing
- Healthcare
- Business
- Technology
7. Ottawa University – Jeffersonville
4 Year; Jeffersonville, IN
Average Annual Cost: $12,186
The Jeffersonville campus of Ottawa University is relatively new, opening its doors to students back in 2002. Since then, they have increased the number of degree options students can consider to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees. With on-campus and online learning, students can acquire their dream degrees in less time.
As expected, the online and evening classes are two of the more popular options at the school. These courses allow you to create your own schedule, ensuring you can simultaneously manage your daily responsibilities and education. Also, since these learning avenues are so popular, most degree options are available online.
There are three major areas of study students can consider at Ottawa University – Jeffersonville:
- School of Business
- School of Education
- School of Arts and Sciences
Within each broad category, there are several undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees. Students can study a wide range of topics, from Early Childhood Education to Finance, depending on their interests. Also, with the help of online and in-person counseling, you can create a custom learning plan that adapts to your every need.
8. Trine University – Regional/Non-Traditional Campuses
4 Year; Fort Wayne, IN
Average Annual Cost: $12,432
The main reason students attend post-secondary schooling is to open more employment opportunities after graduation. Trine University is one of the best options for students to consider to become a more competitive prospective employee. Most of the graduates from the school’s programs find that job placements are considerably easier post-graduation.
There is a collection of majors and programs for prospective students at Trine University. Some of the most popular options include:
- Psychology
- Communication
- Criminal Justice
- General Arts and Sciences
- Pre-Legal
- Mathematics
Another interesting aspect of their course selection is that Trine University offers undecided majors. Instead of jumping headfirst into a program without knowing if it interests you, you can be undeclared or undecided. In other words, you can explore several different courses and earn credits to be transferred to your final major of choice.
You’ll love that you can either attend standard on-campus classes or opt to study entirely online through TrineOnline. The online degree programs are often preferred, allowing you to create your own versatile schedule.
9. University of Southern Indiana
4 Year; Evansville, IN
Average Annual Cost: $13,437
The University of Southern Indiana is one of the more impressive options in the state, especially when choosing a field of study. They currently feature over 130 different areas of study paired with more than 150 clubs and organizations students can join. With over 47,000 alumni members and 9700+ students, it’s clearly one of the better options in Indiana.
This school has everything you would expect from one of the top-ranked schools in the nation. There are many ways students can get involved in their community, whether through fitness and wellness or recreational activities. There are also plenty of on-campus establishments, such as athletic facilities and dining options.
Students will have the time of their life networking with peers and making new friends. The school’s smaller class sizes are also a fantastic way to diversify learning opportunities. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind college experience, the University of Southern Indiana is bound to impress.
Outside of the brilliant on-campus lifestyle, students will also be able to unlock various learning opportunities. The University of Southern Indiana offers multiple avenues of study, including:
- Nursing and Health Professions
- Liberal Arts
- Science, Engineering, and Mathematics
- Business
Like many other modern schools, the University of Southern Indiana offers online learning options. That said, it is important to note that not every program is available online, but many are available.
10. Mid-America College of Funeral Service
4 Year; Jeffersonville, IN
Average Annual Cost: $18,370
The Mid-America College of Funeral Service is a unique school for students interested in funeral services. They have a collection of programs and degrees to help you explore funeral service’s theoretical and practical elements.
Along with their specialized course offerings, they also help students develop career experiences for post-graduation. The Mid-America College of Funeral Service currently offers the following programs and degrees:
- Certificate in Death Companioning
- Bachelor of Science in Funeral Service
- Associate of Applied Science
- Bachelor of Science
- Funeral Director Certificate
- Certificate in Thanatology
You may have access to either in-person or online learning options with each learning pathway. For example, the standard Bachelor of Science degree is available both in-person and online. With this level of versatility, you’ll find that it’s much simpler to acquire your specialty education.
