Public Colleges of Distinction
By: Colleges of Distinction Staff
Jump to: School List | Frequently Asked Questions | Nominate a school
Public colleges and universities are usually perceived to have larger class sizes, less attention, and less prestige than private colleges. Don’t let these labels fool you! Each institution offers a unique college experience, ranging from small liberal arts colleges to research institutions.
Rather than looking at college rankings to choose where you will study for the next four years, take a more immersive approach to your college search. Explore college campuses, sift through your top college majors, and find the college experience that you want.
Colleges of Distinction has hand-picked a selection of the best colleges in the United States that cater to students’ interests to help you with your college search. Take a look below to see our list of this year’s Public Colleges of Distinction to help you find the right college for you.
The Public Colleges of Distinction for 2025
Alabama
Arizona
California
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Iowa
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Minnesota
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Vermont
Virginia
West Virginia
Ignore the public school stereotypes and find the right school for you.
At state universities, you’ll often find more degree choices and a wider course selection. Our Public Colleges of Distinction also stand out because of innovative curriculum and individualized attention in the classroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition?
Public universities often charge significantly lower tuition rates for residents of the state where the university is located. Out-of-state students typically pay higher tuition fees.
Are public universities as academically strong as private universities?
Many public universities are highly ranked and offer excellent programs, world-class faculty, and strong research opportunities. The quality of education can be comparable to private institutions, depending on the program and individual goals.
What are the class sizes like at a public university?
Public universities are often larger, which means introductory courses may have large class sizes. However, as students advance in their programs, class sizes usually become smaller and more specialized.
What types of financial aid and scholarships are available for public university students?
Public universities offer federal financial aid, state grants, institutional scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Many schools also have scholarships specifically for in-state students or merit-based awards for all students.
How diverse are public universities?
Public universities often have diverse student bodies due to their size and mission to serve the public. Many schools also prioritize inclusivity and have resources for students from different backgrounds.
Do public universities have strong alumni networks?
Yes, public universities often have large, active alumni networks that can provide career support, mentorship, and networking opportunities for graduates.
What housing options are available at public universities?
Many public universities offer on-campus housing for freshmen and upperclassmen, but students often move to off-campus apartments or houses after their first year. The availability and cost of housing can vary by location.
Nominate for Consideration
Fill out this nomination form or pass it along to fellow colleagues, students, or alumni. With your nomination, we can help connect students with the right school for them.
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