Manhattan University today announced that it was recognized as the 73rd best college in the U.S. out of 584 institutions of higher learning, according to The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. ranking. The annual rankings assess a variety of factors such as student outcomes, learning opportunities, and cost-effectiveness. Manhattan University achieved an impressive overall score placing it in the top 13% of schools nationwide, further solidifying its commitment to student success, academic excellence, and future job readiness.
Among the key ranking metrics, the University scored exceptionally well in student outcomes, with a salary impact score of 94/100, placing it in the top 3% nationally, and a social mobility score of 85.6/100, placing it in the top 7% nationally. The latter number reflects the proportion of students coming from lower-income families, graduation rates, impact on graduate salaries, and affordability. For New York-based colleges and universities, the University ranked a most impressive fifth across the state.
Frederick Bonato, Ph.D., President of Manhattan University, stated,
“The Wall Street Journal’s ranking places Manhattan University among the top universities in the country and demonstrates our exceptional student outcomes. Our continued recognition underscores our track record of providing students with the opportunities and resources they need to succeed post-graduation.”
These rankings reflect the University’s commitment to equipping students with the skills, opportunities, and environment they need for a fulfilling academic experience and professional readiness.
The 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. ranking is compiled annually by The Wall Street Journal, in collaboration with its research partners College Pulse and Statista.
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About Manhattan University
Founded in 1853, Manhattan University is an independent Lasallian Catholic institution located in Riverdale, NY that embraces students of all faiths, cultures, and traditions. The mission of the University is to provide a dynamic student-centered educational experience that prepares graduates for lives of personal development, professional success, civic engagement, and service to their fellow human beings. Manhattan University offers programs that integrate a broad liberal arts education coupled with a concentration in specific disciplines in the arts and sciences with professional preparation in business and engineering, ensuring graduates will excel in their chosen fields. The University consists of the Kakos School of Arts & Sciences, the O’Malley School of Business, and the School of Engineering. For further information, please visit www.manhattan.edu.