A Survey of Utah Colleges

For Skyline’s upperclassman, deciding on a college can be a daunting task. Luckily there are some excellent colleges in Utah to choose from: the University of Utah, Salt Lake Community College, Utah State University, Brigham Young University, Dixie State University, and Utah Valley University are just a few of the many options.

One of the first things to consider when deciding where to go is the price of tuition. The University of Utah, with an annual tuition cost of $8,615, is the most expensive of the six schools. Utah State comes in second at $8,402. Utah Valley is $5,820, BYU is $5,790, and Dixie State, $5,496. Lastly, Salt Lake Community College has the lowest cost: $3,929. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints can receive the lowered tuition cost of $2,985 at BYU.

When making college decisions, location can be a key factor. Salt Lake Community College and the University of Utah are located in Salt Lake City. Brigham Young University is in Provo with an extension in Price. Utah State is in Logan, Utah Valley University is in Orem, and Dixie State is in St. George.

For 2020, there was no need to worry about getting into Dixie State, Utah Valley, or Salt Lake Community College as they all had 100% acceptance rates; those rates are likely to continue. Following close behind with an acceptance rate of 91% was Utah State. BYU admitted 67.5% of applicants and the University of Utah, 62.1%.

Dorm room prices may also be a determinant in many student’s futures. Salt Lake Community College and Utah Valley University do not have dorm options. Utah State has one of the least expensive dorm options of $2,150 for a two bed two bath shared room. Room and board is approximated to cost $7,808 (this includes a meal plan) at BYU, $10,684 at University of Utah, and $6974 for Dixie State.

What are the faculty to student ratios for these schools? The University of Utah has a ratio of 17:1, BYU and Utah State one of 20:1, and Utah Valley University, 24:1. At the higher end, Dixie State has a faculty to student ratio of 26:1 and Salt Lake Community, 42:1. Having enough access to teachers is certainly a valid concern for many students who want to get the most out of their education.

As the end of the school year approaches, it is important for students who wish to attend college to start considering their futures. These outstanding schools in Utah can fit most student’s unique needs while keeping them close to home.