College Raptor Staff

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Great Lakes Region

The Great Lakes region is home to thousands of lakes (not just the big 5), beautiful destinations like Indiana Dunes, Marquette Ore docks, and Sleeping Bear dunes, and some even more amazing “Hidden Gem” colleges. This Hidden Gem colleges in the Great Lakes region list highlights some of the smaller but mighty colleges and universities …
badge for southwest hidden gem colleges

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southwest US

Home to vast deserts, sprawling cities, rugged mountains, and deep canyons, the Southwest is a dynamic and unique region. The area also boasts some of the most unique colleges in the country. While some big names call this area home, too, we are highlighting “hidden gem” schools in the region. These are college that are …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Plains Region

America’s heartland (or, the Plains region as we call it) is vast, fertile, and filled with various industries. Additionally, the Plains region home to exceptional institutions that you might consider “hidden gem” colleges. What Is a “Hidden Gem?” All of our rankings account for things like diversity, endowment, graduation rates, and more. To be classified …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Rocky Mountain Region

Spanning over 3,000 miles from New Mexico to northern British Columbia in Canada, the Rocky Mountain region is a dream come true for students who would love to spend their study breaks exploring national parks and the beautiful outdoors. If pairing your love for the outdoors with a stellar education sounds good to you, check …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Southeast

If you love warm weather and good food, the Southeast United States may be the perfect location for you to pursue your higher education! Already home to some of the oldest and most impressive schools in the country, these Southeast states are also home to some of the best “hidden gem” colleges we could find. …

Hidden Gem Colleges in the Mid-East

Also known as the Mid-Atlantic region, the Mid-East region of the United States is home to some of the most amazing colleges in the country. Some pre-date the American Revolution. With so many standout names, though, it can be easier to overlook some colleges that deserve more attention. College Raptor aims to highlight those schools …

NCAA Division II (D2) Hidden Gem Colleges

If you are a student looking to continue playing sports in college, you have several options. If you just want to play for fun, joining one your schools’ intramural sports teams is a great option. But if you are looking to play competitively and earn an athletic scholarship, you are probably considering an NCAA or …

Best “Hidden Gem” Nursing Schools

If you love helping others, want variety in your work day, and want diverse opportunities, nursing can be a fulfilling and rewarding career. And, there are many different routes you can take, from studying to be a Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse, to a Critical Care Nurse or Registered Nurse or Nurse Practitioner. Whichever …

Hidden Gem Colleges for Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and driving demand for skilled professionals. It’s shifting the skills and degrees needed for an everchanging workforce. As a result, colleges have begun offering AI degrees and certification programs. If becoming certified in AI sounds like a good path for you, don’t miss these “hidden gem” colleges that will …

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