5 Best Colleges in Delaware
What’s Covered:
It’s no surprise that the first state in the U.S. is also home to several leaders in higher education. Although Delaware is a small state, its college and universities are some of the oldest in the country, with numerous claims to fame. Interested in attending one of these five colleges? Keep reading to learn all about them.
Our Ranking Methodology
When compiling our list of the five best schools in Delaware, we placed focus on school quality, outcomes, and return on investment (ROI). We also examined data such as retention rate, selectivity, endowment per student, student-faculty ratio, median earnings, and cost of attendance, among many others. Students can see CollegeVine’s full rankings here.
Best Colleges in Delaware
1. University of Delaware
Location: Newark, DE
Acceptance Rate: 66%
Middle 50% SAT: 1150-1330
Middle 50% ACT: 25-30
Undergrad Enrollment: 19,900
UD began as a private academy in 1743. Today, it’s a major research university. It’s graduated signers of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, a Nobel laureate, a Tony-winning choreographer, and the sitting president of the U.S., Joe Biden.
Along with academic programs across nine colleges, five schools, and several campuses, UD offers more than 300 student organizations, Division I athletics, and a robust study abroad program to its students.
Learn more about UD and what it takes to get accepted.
2. Goldey-Beacom College
Location: Wilmington, DE
Acceptance Rate: 55%
Middle 50% SAT: N/A
Middle 50% ACT: N/A
Undergrad Enrollment: 700
At GBC, students participate in a career-focused curriculum, while having the advantage of small class sizes and individualized attention. There are 41 degree options in total for undergraduates and graduates, spanning disciplines like Communication & Media, Criminal Justice, Business Administration, Entrepreneurial Studies, and more. Each curriculum balances general education with major-related courses. For more than 10 years, GBC alumni have achieved a placement rate of more than 90% within months of graduation.
Learn more about Goldey-Beacom College and what it takes to get accepted.
3. Delaware State University
Location: Dover, DE
Acceptance Rate: 39%
Middle 50% SAT: 810-1010
Middle 50% ACT: 17-22
Undergrad Enrollment: 4,200
One of the first land-grant educational institutions, DSU was founded in 1891. Today, the HBCU has a diverse student population, with 63% African-American enrollment and growing numbers of students of other races and backgrounds.
The university offers more than 60 academic programs across four colleges, including interdisciplinary options. One unique offering is the Aviation Program. Students can also take advantage of an Honors Program and international programs at Delaware State.
Learn more about Delaware State and what it takes to get accepted.
4. Wilmington University
Location: New Castle
Acceptance Rate: N/A
Middle 50% SAT: N/A
Middle 50% ACT: N/A
Undergrad Enrollment: 9,000
The #1 most affordable private university in the region, Wilmington emphasizes diversity and accessibility. Eighty-seven percent of students work at least part-time, and Wilmington University offers opportunities to learn new skills and find meaningful careers. There are more than 200 degree and certificate programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels and more than 130 online programs available. Employing a guided pathways approach to education, Wilmington ensures that students make progress and attain value from attending.
Learn more about Wilmington and what it takes to get accepted.
5. Wesley College
Location: Dover
Acceptance Rate: 59%
Middle 50% SAT: 820-1050
Middle 50% ACT: 15-20
Undergrad Enrollment: 1,200
Until July 1, 2021, Wesley was a standalone college with a 147-year-long history. The college joined DSU last year, making the larger university the first HBCU to acquire another institution of higher learning. Today, Wesley comprises the DSU Downtown campus.
Learn more about Wesley College and what it takes to get accepted.
What Are Your Chances of Acceptance?
Whether you want to attend school in Delaware or elsewhere, it’s important to know where you stand. Find out your chances of admission using our free chancing engine. Not only will you learn your odds of acceptance, but you’ll also get tips on how to improve your profile!
Our chancing engine can also help you build a balanced school list of colleges inside and outside of the state. By providing your odds of acceptance, you can strategically assign safety, target, and reach schools and put yourself in the best position to get into a college that fits your needs and meets your expectations. Sign up for your free CollegeVine account today to get started!