Adelphi University has surged to the number-one spot among all Long Island institutions in the newly released Poets&Quants 2026 Best Undergraduate Business Schools ranking. The Adelphi University Robert B. Willumstad School of Business outpaced its peers with a 17-point jump from No. 102 in 2025 to No. 85 this year—marking the single largest improvement of any college or university on the list.
A dramatic rise in Career Outcomes (from No. 103 to No. 79) and Admissions Standards (No. 97 to No. 83) helped fuel the rankings surge this year. Poets&Quants specifically noted the impact of the School’s Willumstad Winning Edge program, a signature two-course sequence that pairs every student with both faculty and career-readiness advisers. By guaranteeing hands-on professional experiences, Adelphi has helped redefine the undergraduate business experience and deliver industry-ready graduates.
Poets&Quants is the leading independent authority on business school rankings, evaluating hundreds of undergraduate programs across the United States. The ranking uses a total index score, combining surveys of recent alumni (two years postgraduation) and school-reported data. Adelphi’s jump of 17 places signals not just incremental progress—it signals transformation.
“While we are extremely proud of this ranking, it is what is behind the ranking that really sets Adelphi apart,” said MaryAnne Hyland, PhD, dean of the Robert. B Willumstad School of Business. “Our commitment to student success is reflected in high alumni satisfaction and strong internship and job placement rates that give our students the competitive edge necessary to thrive in today’s economy. Recent graduates report high overall satisfaction with their Adelphi experience. Our career-readiness program leads to strong internship and job placement, both of which are critical to business students.”
Business Programs Expand to Adelphi’s Manhattan Center
Later this spring, Adelphi will expand its award-winning academic programs to its new Midtown Manhattan Center at 529 Fifth Avenue (at 44th Street), offering access to professional growth opportunities and access to major employers. Located just steps from Grand Central Station, this three-floor, 51,000-square-foot facility is a conveniently located, state-of-the-art learning space for busy adults looking to advance their career with an advanced degree or certification.
Starting this fall, Adelphi’s Manhattan Center offerings will include the Willumstad School of Business’s Flex MBA and Professional Accelerated MBA programs. For extra convenience, Adelphi’s MBA programs can be completed in as little as one year.
Learn more about Adelphi’s awards and rankings.