American Colleges With The Highest-Earning Graduates From Coast to Coast

26. Rice University – Houston, Texas

Rice University combines Ivy-caliber academics with a tight-knit community and a research-first approach that yields exceptional outcomes for its graduates. Known for its rigorous programs in engineering, biosciences, and business, Rice attracts top students and funnels them into some of the highest-paying industries in the world. Its location in Houston—America’s energy capital and a fast-growing tech and medical innovation hub—gives students unparalleled access to internships, research labs, and professional networks. Rice’s undergraduate experience is uniquely student-centered, with a residential college system and small class sizes that promote close mentorship and academic excellence. Graduates of the George R. Brown School of Engineering and Jones Graduate School of Business routinely land jobs at firms like ExxonMobil, JPMorgan Chase, and leading startups, with salaries often exceeding national averages by a wide margin. For students seeking elite outcomes with a personalized touch, Rice is an ideal and financially rewarding choice.