Molloy University has earned a place among the nation’s top colleges and universities, with a growing collection of national rankings recognizing the University for student outcomes, academic excellence, value and the overall student experience.
Most recently, Molloy was named to TIME magazine’s inaugural list of America’s Best Colleges for 2026-2027, ranking No. 85 in the nation. Molloy is one of only 14 New York institutions in the Top 100 and the only college or university on Long Island to earn the distinction.
The TIME ranking places significant emphasis on what students gain from their education. Student outcomes account for 75% of an institution’s overall score, incorporating measures such as graduation rates, graduate earnings and the economic value a college or university adds for its students. Molloy earned an overall score of 79.93, securing its place among some of the country’s most recognized institutions.
“Molloy University’s place among TIME magazine’s America’s Best Colleges is a powerful affirmation of our mission and impact,” said President James Lentini, DMA. “As the only Long Island institution ranked in the Top 100, we are especially proud to see our commitment to student success, career outcomes and educational value recognized on a national stage. This honor belongs to our entire community and reflects the extraordinary work taking place every day at Molloy.”
The recognition is the latest in a series of rankings that, taken together, illustrate the strength of a Molloy education.
In the 2027 Niche rankings, Molloy was named the No. 1 Safest College in New York, No. 1 Catholic College in New York, No. 1 Education Program in New York and No. 1 Nursing Program in New York. The University also ranked No. 9 among Best Value Colleges in the United States, further highlighting the combination of academic quality, affordability and student outcomes that defines the Molloy experience.
For Marcia R. Gardner, PhD, RN, CPNP, CPN, ANEF, FNYAM, Dean of The Barbara H. Hagan School of Nursing and Health Sciences, the nursing recognition reflects both the education students receive at Molloy and the impact graduates go on to make in the profession.
“We are honored to be recognized as the No. 1 nursing program in New York,” Gardner said. “This recognition reflects our commitment to excellence in nursing education and practice, exemplified by our outstanding faculty and nursing graduates who embody the Molloy mission as well as the nursing profession’s values of integrity, compassion and healthcare equity every day.”
Molloy’s top ranking in education similarly reflects a commitment to preparing graduates to make a meaningful impact in their profession.
“This recognition reflects the unwavering commitment of our faculty and staff to ensuring that every graduate enters the teaching profession fully prepared to make a deep and lasting impact on the students they serve,” said Melissa McCardle, PhD, LCSW, Dean of the School of Education & Human Services. “Our innovative and holistic approach to teacher education, guided by our mission to transform our communities one individual at a time, is what truly sets Molloy teacher education graduates apart.”
Beyond academics, Molloy’s recognition as the No. 1 Catholic College in New York reflects another defining aspect of the University experience.
“What makes Molloy distinctive is that our Catholic identity is not separate from the student experience; it is reflected in how our community lives out our mission every day,” said Michelle Martin, Ed.D., Director of Mission and Ministry. “Inspired by our Dominican heritage and the vision of the Sisters of St. Dominic, faculty, staff and students are committed to creating a culture of belonging, service, compassion and respect for the dignity of every person.”
Molloy’s recognition as the No. 1 Safest College in New York further speaks to the environment the University strives to create for its students.
“Safety is not simply a ranking for us; it is a commitment we live every day,” said Janine Biscari, Ed.D., Vice President for Student Affairs. “Our dedicated Public Safety team, faculty, staff and students work together to create an environment where everyone feels welcomed, supported and protected. We are proud to be a university where students can learn, thrive, build meaningful relationships and truly feel at home.”
Other national organizations have reached similar conclusions about the quality and value of a Molloy education.
Forbes named Molloy one of America’s Top Colleges, a ranking that considers factors including alumni success, student debt, graduation rates and return on investment. Money also included Molloy on its Best Colleges list, awarding the University four stars based on measures including quality of education, affordability and student outcomes.
The Princeton Review has also recognized Molloy as a Best Regional College in the Northeast, highlighting the University among institutions it considers academically outstanding in the region.
While each ranking uses its own methodology, collectively they offer a broader picture of Molloy’s impact. Academic strength in areas such as nursing and education is complemented by recognition for affordability, safety, graduate success and return on investment.
For students and families, those distinctions speak to more than Molloy’s position on any single list. They reflect an educational experience designed to support students from their first day on campus through graduation and into meaningful careers.
As Molloy continues to grow, these recognitions affirm a commitment that has remained constant: providing students with an education that combines academic excellence, personal support and real-world value while preparing graduates to lead lives of purpose.
