Molloy University has been named one of the nation’s top 100 colleges and universities by The Wall Street Journal as part of its 2026 Best Colleges Rankings, placing 75th nationally and 6th in New York State among all institutions.
Of the nearly 4,000 degree-granting colleges and universities in the country, 584 institutions were ranked by The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse—and Molloy’s standing as 75th nationally places it in the top 15% of all ranked schools (12.8%). This elite recognition includes both private and public universities, from Ivy League institutions to flagship state schools. In the State of NY, Molloy is ranked 6th out of 270 colleges and universities in the State, 55 of which received rankings.
Molloy was also ranked far ahead of its peer Long Island colleges and universities.
Molloy earned particularly strong marks for Social Mobility (52nd nationally; 8th in New York) and Best Salaries (73rd nationally; 7th in New York)—metrics that highlight the University’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful, well-compensated careers.
“This ranking is beyond outstanding,” said James P. Lentini, D.M.A., President of Molloy University. “To be recognized among the top 100 universities in the country—ahead of major institutions that are household names—is a testament to the academic excellence, student-centered mission, and real-world impact that define a Molloy education.”
In addition to its national recognition, Molloy placed 130th in Student Experience (17th in New York) and 225th in Best Value (23rd in New York), underscoring the University’s continued investment in academic quality, personalized learning, and access.
The Wall Street Journal’s Best Colleges Rankings methodology is based on four main categories: Student Outcomes (including "value added" salary impact and graduation rates), Student Experience (based on surveys about learning opportunities, career preparation, and facilities), and Diversity. These categories are then combined to create a final score that heavily emphasizes the tangible success of graduates, such as their earning potential after graduation. Unlike other school rankings, this list emphasizes one point: How well did the college prepare students for financial success? More than any other factor, it rewards the boost an institution provides to its graduates’ salaries, beyond an estimate of what they could have expected from attending any college. Beyond the
marquee names, the rankings’ distinct methodology highlights some institutions that don’t have as much name recognition but still help their students achieve remarkable success.
About Molloy University
Molloy University, an independent Catholic university based in Rockville Centre, Long Island, New York, was founded in 1955. The University serves a student population of approximately 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Molloy students can earn degrees in a variety of outstanding academic programs, including nursing, allied health, business, education, social work, music therapy and many more. The University was founded by the Dominican Sisters of Amityville.