For the third consecutive year, Adelphi University has been recognized as the highest-ranked private university on Long Island on Forbes’ 2026 America’s Top Colleges list.
Forbes noted on its 2026 America’s Top Colleges list that its ranking “showcases 500 colleges that produce successful, high-earning and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds, with less student debt.”
Adelphi’s ranking at No. 288 places it ahead of Hofstra University (No. 311), Molloy College (No. 382), New York Institute of Technology (No. 351) and Long Island University (No. 423).
This outstanding honor underscores Adelphi’s commitment to academic excellence and student success. Forbes’ evaluates U.S. colleges each year based on factors such as alumni earnings, student debt, graduation rates and return on investment.
Several data points demonstrate the successful outcomes of Adelphi alumni, including:
- The average annual salary of Adelphi’s 2023 baccalaureate graduates is $82,539, or 30 percent higher than the national average
- 93 percent of our 2023 baccalaureate graduates were employed or continuing their education one year after graduation.
- U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 rankings places Adelphi in the top 25 percent of universities for social mobility.
“Adelphi’s steady climb in the Forbes Top Colleges rankings is a powerful endorsement of our University’s mission,” said Christopher Storm, PhD, Adelphi’s interim president. “This recognition reflects our deep commitment to providing a personalized education, exceptional career readiness and meaningful community engagement. Our strategic initiatives are directly responsible for our growing reputation, paving the way for our continued success.”
Earlier this summer, Adelphi was also named among America’s Best Employers by State for 2025 by Forbes—the only private university on Long Island to receive this ranking. This marks the fourth consecutive year that the University has received this distinction.
Learn more about Adelphi’s awards and rankings.