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44 Best Science PhD Universities in the United States 2026

This ranks Science PhD and Doctorate options in the United States for 2026. It is for applicants comparing where to pursue doctoral study in this subject.

Ranked by our transparent composite score, with QS rankings, tuition fees and entry requirements.

44 universities · ranked best first

how we rank
15
PU Princeton University logo

Princeton University

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
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16
SJ Saint Joseph's University logo

Saint Joseph's University

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
—
17
SA St. Ambrose University logo

St. Ambrose University

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
—
21
UN University of Notre Dame logo

University of Notre Dame

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
—
23
VU Vanderbilt University logo

Vanderbilt University

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
—

Science at other levels

Best Foundation Science Best Diploma Science Best Bachelor's Science Best Master's Science Best Professional Science

Related PhD subjects

Statistics PhD

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best universities worldwide for PhD Science?▾

Based on our composite ranking, the top choices include New Mexico State University, North Carolina A&T State University, Princeton University. See the full ranked list above with QS positions, tuition fees and entry requirements.

How much does a PhD in Science cost abroad?▾

Tuition varies by university and is indicative on each profile — public universities are generally the most affordable, while private and international branch campuses charge more. Scholarships can reduce costs significantly.

Can international students study Science abroad?▾

Yes. Most programmes are taught in English and open to international students, who apply for a student visa through the immigration authority after accepting an offer.

How are these universities ranked?▾

We use a transparent composite score combining QS World/Asia positions, your destination country’s star rating, academic breadth, internationalisation and student support — never paid placement. See our ranking methodology for the exact weights.

Studying Science at PhD level abroad

your destination country is a popular, affordable destination for Science at PhD level, with provincially accredited programmes taught in English at both public and private universities, plus international branch campuses. The universities above are ordered by our composite ranking score, which combines QS World and QS Americas positions, your destination country’s star rating, academic breadth, internationalisation and student support — with no paid placement.

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A PhD or Doctorate in Science is a research degree aimed at applicants planning advanced study and a research career. It suits people who already have the preparation for independent research and want doctoral training in the subject.

The universities in this set are all public, and the degree options span different settings across the United States. The facts do not give city size, campus location, or tuition figures, so those details need checking with each university before you decide.

Before applying, confirm the admission requirements, tuition, funding, and programme length for the specific doctorate you want. Also check whether the university offers the exact Science research area you need, because the subject level alone does not tell you which doctoral specialism fits your goals.