Best Safety Schools

California State University, Long Beach offers a comprehensive and affordable education with a strong focus on student success and career readiness. Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), CSULB provides a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across diverse fields, including engineering, business, health sciences, and liberal arts. Most bachelor’s degree programs are designed to be completed in four years, while master’s programs typically range from one to two years in duration. Key features of CSULB’s programs include hands-on learning opportunities, robust internship connections, and dedicated faculty mentorship, all contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.

Tuition at CSULB is competitively priced, making it an excellent value for in-state students. The estimated annual cost for California residents is approximately $6,800, while non-resident students can expect to pay around $18,700 per year. Additional costs for housing, books, and personal expenses vary based on individual needs.

CSULB is consistently recognized for its diverse and inclusive campus environment, innovative academic programs, and strong job placement rates. The university boasts modern facilities, active student organizations, and access to internships in the vibrant Southern California job market. Its location near the beach and proximity to Los Angeles provides students with ample professional and recreational opportunities. CSULB’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement further enhances its reputation as a top safety school, offering both academic excellence and an enriching college experience.

University of Houston is a leading public research institution known for its dynamic academic programs and commitment to student success. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), UH offers over 250 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across disciplines such as business, engineering, health sciences, and the arts. Most bachelor’s programs are designed for completion in four years, while master’s and professional degrees typically range from one to three years. Key features include cutting-edge research opportunities, experiential learning, and a diverse campus community that fosters innovation and leadership.

The University of Houston is affordable, especially for Texas residents. The estimated annual cost for in-state students is approximately $9,500, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $21,000 per year. Additional costs for housing, meals, and personal expenses vary depending on individual circumstances.

The University of Houston stands out for its strong industry connections, particularly in energy, healthcare, and technology—key sectors in the Houston economy. The C.T. Bauer College of Business, Cullen College of Engineering, and Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership are nationally recognized for their excellence. UH provides students with access to extensive internship and research opportunities, a thriving student life with over 500 organizations, and state-of-the-art facilities. Its location in the nation’s fourth-largest city offers unmatched cultural diversity, professional networking, and career growth potential, making it an ideal choice for students seeking a well-rounded and impactful college experience.

Purdue University is a prestigious public research institution renowned for its rigorous academic programs and innovative research initiatives. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), Purdue offers over 200 undergraduate majors and 70 graduate programs across diverse fields, including engineering, business, agriculture, health sciences, and technology. Purdue’s bachelor’s programs typically span four years, while master’s and doctoral degrees can take between one to five years, depending on the field. The university is globally recognized for its engineering, aviation, and technology programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, research opportunities, and industry partnerships.

Purdue University is highly competitive, offering excellent value for both in-state and out-of-state students. Indiana residents can expect to pay an estimated $9,992 per year, while out-of-state students face tuition costs around $28,794 annually. Additional expenses for housing, meals, and personal needs vary by student.

Purdue is widely acclaimed for its commitment to affordability, career readiness, and global impact. The university’s strong emphasis on STEM fields, world-class faculty, and cutting-edge research facilities make it a leader in innovation and discovery. Purdue boasts extensive internship and co-op programs, connecting students with top employers in industries like aerospace, healthcare, and technology. The campus offers a vibrant student life with over 1,000 clubs and organizations, fostering leadership and community engagement. Its dedication to student success, affordability, and academic excellence makes Purdue a top safety school choice for ambitious students.

University of Minnesota, Twin Cities is a top-tier public research university known for its comprehensive academic programs, world-class research facilities, and vibrant campus life. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the university offers over 150 undergraduate majors and more than 200 graduate and professional programs across disciplines like business, engineering, health sciences, liberal arts, and agriculture. Undergraduate programs typically take four years to complete, while graduate degrees range from one to five years. Key features include cutting-edge research opportunities, experiential learning, and strong industry partnerships, providing students with valuable real-world experience.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities is competitively priced. Minnesota residents pay an estimated $15,000 annually, while non-resident and out-of-state students can expect to pay around $35,000 per year. Additional costs for housing, meals, and personal expenses vary depending on the student’s lifestyle and housing choices.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities stands out for its commitment to innovation, diversity, and global engagement. The university is home to renowned programs in health sciences, business, and engineering, with extensive research centers and labs driving discoveries that impact industries worldwide. Students benefit from robust internship and research opportunities, supported by partnerships with Fortune 500 companies in the Twin Cities area. With over 900 student organizations, Big Ten athletics, and a scenic campus along the Mississippi River, UMN offers a dynamic and engaging college experience. Its blend of academic excellence, research opportunities, and urban accessibility makes it an outstanding safety school option.

Ohio State University (OSU) is one of the largest and most prestigious public research universities in the United States, known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to innovation. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), OSU offers over 200 undergraduate majors and more than 250 graduate and professional programs in fields such as engineering, business, health sciences, agriculture, and the arts. Most undergraduate programs are designed to be completed in four years, while graduate and professional degrees typically take one to five years, depending on the program. OSU’s programs emphasize hands-on learning, cutting-edge research, and global engagement.

Ohio State University remains affordable, providing excellent value for both in-state and out-of-state students. Ohio residents pay an estimated $12,485 annually, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $36,722 per year. Additional expenses for housing, meals, books, and personal needs vary based on individual preferences.

Ohio State University stands out for its expansive resources, world-renowned faculty, and strong alumni network. The university is particularly acclaimed for its programs in engineering, business (Fisher College of Business), and health sciences. OSU offers unparalleled research opportunities, internships, and co-op programs, giving students direct access to industry leaders and hands-on experience. The vibrant campus life includes more than 1,400 student organizations, Big Ten athletics, and extensive community engagement initiatives. Located in Columbus, a growing tech and business hub, OSU provides students with exceptional professional and cultural opportunities, making it a top choice for students seeking a well-rounded and impactful education.

Indiana University Bloomington (IU Bloomington) is a flagship public research university renowned for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and global impact. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), IU Bloomington offers over 200 undergraduate majors and more than 400 graduate and professional programs across diverse disciplines such as business, public affairs, informatics, music, and health sciences. Most undergraduate degrees are designed to be completed in four years, while graduate and professional programs typically range from one to five years. Key features include world-class faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning.

IU Bloomington is competitively priced, providing high-quality education at an affordable cost. Indiana residents can expect to pay around $11,750 annually, while out-of-state students pay approximately $40,480 per year. Additional costs for housing, dining, books, and personal expenses vary based on individual choices.

Indiana University Bloomington is widely recognized for its top-ranked programs, including the Kelley School of Business, Jacobs School of Music, and the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. The university offers extensive research opportunities, global study programs, and strong industry connections that enhance career readiness. With over 750 student organizations, Big Ten athletics, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene, IU provides a dynamic and inclusive campus experience. Its picturesque campus, rich traditions, and commitment to innovation make IU Bloomington an exceptional safety school choice for students seeking both academic rigor and personal growth.

The University of Alabama (UA) is a prominent public research institution known for its rich traditions, strong academic programs, and vibrant campus life. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), UA offers more than 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across diverse fields such as business, engineering, law, health sciences, and the arts. Most undergraduate programs are designed to be completed in four years, while graduate and professional degrees typically range from one to five years. Key program highlights include a focus on hands-on learning, innovative research, and leadership development.

The University of Alabama offers excellent value for a high-quality education. In-state students pay an estimated $11,100 annually, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $32,250 per year. Additional expenses for housing, meals, books, and personal items vary depending on individual lifestyle choices.

The University of Alabama is celebrated for its commitment to academic excellence, student engagement, and campus spirit. It is home to renowned programs like the Culverhouse College of Business, the College of Engineering, and the School of Law. UA provides students with extensive research opportunities, internships, and leadership programs. The campus boasts more than 600 student organizations, Division I athletics in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), and a vibrant Greek life. Its blend of Southern hospitality, academic rigor, and state-of-the-art facilities makes UA an exceptional safety school for students seeking a well-rounded and dynamic college experience.

Iowa State University (ISU) is a prestigious public research university recognized for its innovative programs, hands-on learning, and commitment to student success. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ISU offers over 100 undergraduate majors and more than 200 graduate and professional programs across fields such as engineering, agriculture, business, design, and the sciences. Most undergraduate degrees are structured for completion in four years, while graduate programs typically range from one to five years. ISU is especially known for its world-renowned College of Engineering and College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, offering students cutting-edge research and industry connections.

Iowa State University is competitively priced, providing excellent value for both in-state and out-of-state students. Iowa residents pay an estimated $10,133 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $26,617 annually. Additional costs for housing, dining, and personal expenses will vary depending on individual preferences.

Iowa State University stands out for its strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and career readiness. The university is home to extensive research facilities like the Ames Laboratory, fostering hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving. ISU offers numerous internship and co-op opportunities through its industry partnerships, especially in engineering, technology, and agriculture. With more than 800 student organizations, vibrant campus traditions, and Big 12 athletics, ISU provides a well-rounded and engaging college experience. Its commitment to research, community involvement, and student development makes Iowa State a top safety school choice for ambitious students.

The University of Utah (U of U) is a top-tier public research university known for its academic excellence, innovation, and vibrant campus life. Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), the university offers over 150 undergraduate majors and more than 100 graduate and professional programs across disciplines such as business, engineering, health sciences, law, and the arts. Undergraduate programs are typically completed in four years, while graduate and professional degrees vary from one to five years. The U of U is especially renowned for its School of Medicine, David Eccles School of Business, and College of Engineering, offering students unparalleled research and industry connections.

The University of Utah is competitively priced. In-state students pay approximately $9,315 annually, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $31,389 per year. Additional costs for housing, meals, books, and personal expenses vary based on lifestyle and housing preferences.

The University of Utah is a leader in research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, offering students access to cutting-edge facilities like the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute and the Utah Science Technology and Research (USTAR) initiative. Its location in Salt Lake City provides students with exceptional internship and career opportunities in technology, healthcare, and finance industries. The campus also offers more than 600 student organizations, Pac-12 athletics, and close proximity to world-class outdoor recreation. The combination of academic excellence, research opportunities, and an adventurous campus culture makes the U of U an outstanding safety school choice for driven students.

The University of South Carolina (UofSC) is a leading public research university known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus community, and commitment to student success. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), UofSC offers more than 350 degree programs across undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels in fields such as business, engineering, health sciences, education, and the arts. Most undergraduate programs are designed to be completed in four years, while graduate and professional degrees typically range from one to five years. The Darla Moore School of Business, College of Engineering and Computing, and Arnold School of Public Health are nationally recognized for their excellence.

The University of South Carolina is competitively priced, offering strong value for both in-state and out-of-state students. South Carolina residents pay an estimated $12,688 per year, while out-of-state students pay around $33,928 annually. Additional expenses for housing, dining, books, and personal needs depend on the student’s living arrangements and lifestyle.

UofSC is celebrated for its nationally ranked programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. The university offers extensive internship and research opportunities, especially through its strong partnerships with industries in business, healthcare, and technology. With more than 500 student organizations, SEC athletics, and a scenic campus in the heart of Columbia, students experience both academic rigor and an engaging social environment. UofSC’s dedication to diversity, global learning, and career readiness makes it an exceptional safety school choice for students seeking a comprehensive and rewarding education.