News Release

SOUTH BEND — Indiana boasts over 70 colleges and universities, providing a wide array of educational opportunities.

On Jan. 21, Research.com rolled out the second edition of its Best Colleges in America Ranking. The ranking utilizes a scientifically proven Entropy method derived from Decision Making Theory to determine category weights, enhancing the rankings’ integrity by minimizing biases. The analysis draws on data from sources like the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, Peterson’s database, and OpenAlex, encompassing evaluations of over 6,000 institutions. Research for the ranking has been conducted by a data science team led by Imed Bouchrika PhD, and Pawel Dabrowski PhD.

Research.com’s Top 5 Colleges in the Best Colleges in Indiana Ranking in 2024-2025. See them below.

1. University of Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame is a prestigious institution with an enrollment of 2,037 students. It boasts an impressive graduation rate of 96%, reflecting its commitment to student success. The acceptance rate stands at a competitive 13%, making it a selective choice for prospective students. The total cost of studying at Notre Dame is $81,321, which is indicative of its high-quality education and resources. Graduates from Notre Dame enjoy a median alumni salary of $70,362, showcasing the strong return on investment for their education.

2. Indiana University-Bloomington

Indiana University-Bloomington is a large public university with 9,736 enrolled students. The institution has a graduation rate of 81%, which is commendable for a school of its size. With an acceptance rate of 82%, it offers a more accessible option for many applicants. The total cost of studying at Indiana University-Bloomington is $26,320, making it a more affordable choice compared to some private institutions. Graduates from this university earn a median alumni salary of $48,621, reflecting the diverse opportunities available to its students.

3. Purdue University

Purdue University is another significant public university, enrolling 9,447 students. It has a graduation rate of 83%, indicating a solid level of student achievement. The acceptance rate is 53%, providing a balance between selectivity and accessibility. The total cost of studying at Purdue is $21,182, making it one of the more economical options among top universities. Alumni from Purdue enjoy a median salary of $61,124, highlighting the value of a degree from this institution in the job market.

4. Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis (IUPUI) serves 3,523 students and has a graduation rate of 56%. The acceptance rate is 83%, making it a welcoming option for many students. The total cost of studying at IUPUI is $24,148, which is relatively affordable. However, the median alumni salary of $49,273 suggests that while the education is accessible, the financial return may vary compared to other institutions.

5. DePauw University

DePauw University is a smaller liberal arts college with an enrollment of 535 students. It has a graduation rate of 79%, reflecting a solid commitment to student outcomes. The acceptance rate is 66%, providing a moderate level of selectivity. The total cost of studying at DePauw is $72,440, which is on the higher end for undergraduate education. Graduates from DePauw earn a median alumni salary of $42,104, indicating that while the education is valuable, the financial returns may be lower compared to larger universities.

To learn more about college in Indiana or to view the full ranking, click here.