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Great Small/Medium-Sized Public Colleges

Best Small & Medium-Sized Public Colleges in the U.S.

Balancing quality academics with a close-knit campus environment, small and mid-sized public colleges offer personalized class sizes, strong faculty engagement, supportive learning communities, and varied programs without the scale of a large university. Our list features institutions enrolling between 2,000 and 15,000 students, each recognized for rigorous coursework and student success.

Experience smaller classes—often under 30 students—that promote one-on-one mentorship and tight peer networks. From STEM to liberal arts, these colleges excel in graduation rates and faculty expertise. Public funding keeps tuition low, especially for in-state residents, and scholarships further reduce costs.

Beyond academics, campuses offer athletics, student government, cultural clubs, and internships tied to local industries. Internship pathways often connect students with regional employers, boosting job placement and career readiness. Whether you prefer historic New England towns, the open landscapes of the Midwest, or the warm communities of the South, there’s a campus for you. Each balances resources and community, with modern facilities and active alumni networks.

Use our filters to narrow by state, student–faculty ratio, popular majors, or net price. Review each profile to explore signature programs, research opportunities, and graduate outcomes. Start your journey here to unlock the advantages of a small or mid-sized public college.

List produced by the Experts . Want more information on how this list was compiled? Find out more about where our Lists & Rankings come from.

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Miami University

Oxford, OH


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