Looking for a Degree? Here’s Where to Go
When it comes to questions that alter the course of your life, “Where should I go to college?” is a big one. While countless variables inform the decision, from financial aid packages to geographic location to how many years your parents have been dressing you in their alma mater colors, two key pieces of information have to match up to ensure a fulfilling move: where is the best degree program for you, and do you actually want to live there?
To help narrow down your search, here are five popular majors and the best places to pursue them – that are also Livability-approved great places to live.
In This Article
Best Place to Get an Engineering Degree
University of Illinois in Urbana, IL
Why the degree is great: The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign prides itself on combining cutting-edge innovation with an entrepreneurial mindset and support. Students here are encouraged to bring their big ideas not just to the classroom, but also to collaborative workspaces like the Technology Entrepreneur Center and the Research Park, where an impressive roster of game-changing startups and scientific breakthroughs has been brought to life.
Why the city is great: Residents of Champaign–Urbana are intellectually curious, creative and genuinely care about each other. You’ll find a real sense of belonging when you venture beyond campus here. Case in point? The Chambana Welcome Crew, a group of local ambassadors who help newcomers meet new friends, explore events and activities and get any questions about life in CU answered quickly and thoughtfully. Champaign-Urbana is located close enough to Chicago for easy weekend trips, but between the local food scene (which showcases the city’s diversity with flavors from around the globe), beloved events like the Boneyards Arts Festival, college sports, breweries and live music every night of the week, you might be surprised by how rarely you want to leave.
Best Place to Get a Business Degree
University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA
Why the degree is great: The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton Business School is world-renowned for graduating prominent leaders. Alumni head up an impressive number of Fortune 500 companies and even entire nations. Undergraduates are encouraged to take a variety of classes in any of Penn’s undergraduate schools and eight other graduate schools, ensuring a well-rounded education that weaves business curriculum with liberal arts.
Why the city is great: It’s tough to visit Philly and not fall in love with it. The city has historic charm, big-city amenities and a prime East Coast location with easy access to DC and NYC (perfect for internships or job interviews!). Augment your time in the classroom with trips to world-class art museums, historic sites and excellent restaurants. Ready to check it out? Here’s our guide to experiencing Philadelphia like a local.
Best Place to Get a Finance Degree
University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI
Why the degree is great: Whether you’re interested in a career in investment banking, real estate, corporate finance or portfolio management, the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business will prepare you to land your dream job. In fact, 99.3% of graduates received a job offer by September 30th. Another stat that might entice you? The median base salary for grads here is $100,000.
Why the city is great: Ann Arbor combines Stars Hollow-level charm with international culture and a calendar of events that rivals any major city. There’s good reason A2 makes frequent appearances on Livability’s Top 100 Best Places to Live list, as well as our ranking of Best College Towns – residents here enjoy a creative community full of bookstores, art festivals and cultural events.
While football games at Michigan’s iconic 107,000-seat Big House are a bucket-list item for many sports fans, Detroit is also just 45 miles east, giving residents easy access to the city’s pro teams, plus an international airport, legendary music venues and museums. Need a little more convincing? Check out 8 reasons to move to Ann Arbor.
Best Place to Get a Journalism Degree
University of Missouri in Columbia, MO
Why the degree is great: The Mizzou School of Journalism is internationally recognized as a leader in the field, offering students a deep dive into strategic communication, cultural analysis and a toolbox of tangible skills needed to carve out a fulfilling career. Students here gain hands-on experience in media, staffing six newsrooms and building their resumes in real-time. As the school website says, “You won’t pretend to be a journalist while you’re in school. You’ll be a journalist.”
Why the city is great: One of Livability’s 2025 Best Places to Live, Columbia is a college town that punches far above its weight when it comes to things to do. Downtown, known as The District, is home to more than 600 businesses and spans 50 square blocks – this is a place where eating and shopping local is easy and fun. First Fridays in the North Village Arts District is a beloved monthly art crawl where residents can explore the creative side of Columbia. With a cost of living below the national average, living here means a fun, fulfilling life without depleting your bank account.
Best Place to Get a Fine Arts Degree
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Savannah, GA
Why the degree is great: When it comes to creative careers, it’s hard to beat SCAD’s reputation, faculty expertise and breadth of offerings. With over 100 degree programs ranging from graphic design to illustration, fiber arts and painting, being a student here means being able to deeply immerse yourself in your chosen creative pursuit while having the freedom to explore other mediums and indulge your curiosity. Looking for inspiration? SCAD’s main campus is woven throughout the beautiful, historic neighborhoods of Savannah, AKA an artist’s dream come true.
Why the city is great: Savannah might just be the most gorgeous city in the United States, with cobblestone squares and historic buildings draped in Spanish moss. Steeped in history and culture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. It’s not just a feast for the eyes, though: it’s also one of the best foodie cities in the country. While Savannah’s creative side might not surprise you, there’s an entrepreneurial spirit to be found here, too: in fact, Livability named Savannah a haven for creative entrepreneurs. If you decide to stay here after college to spin up your own business, you’ll find a tight-knit, supportive community to rally around your big dreams.