In an era where quality education often comes with a hefty price tag and student loan debt looms over many graduates, choosing the right college is crucial. To aid prospective students in making informed decisions, we’ve compiled a list of the worst colleges in America for 2023. This list considers factors such as graduation rates, tuition costs, student debt, and overall student satisfaction. Let’s delve into the details of each institution and shed light on areas that need improvement.
1. DeVry University
Devry University, a private for-profit institution with campuses in 16 states, has raised concerns for its 50% acceptance rate and a meager 22% graduation rate. Despite offering online classes, it is criticized for being overpriced, with undergraduate tuition at $514 per credit hour and graduate programs at $776.
2. Bob Jones University
This South Carolina-based private Christian University has an affordable tuition but is known for its stringent rules, including restrictions on socializing, movie choices, music genres, and mandatory daily shaving for students under 25. While graduation rates are commendable, the restrictive environment is a point of contention.
3. Morris College
Founded in 1908, Morris College, a private HBCU in South Carolina, boasts an acceptance rate of 79.4% but struggles with a low 30% graduation rate. Student complaints range from subpar dorms to cafeteria food.
4. Western International University
A for-profit private institution in Arizona, affiliated with the University of Phoenix, Western International University lost accreditation in 2019 after ceasing enrollment in 2017. Students cited issues with the education system, high tuition costs, and difficulties transferring credits.
5. Lindsey Wilson College
Lindsey Wilson College in Kentucky, affiliated with the United Methodist Church, faces criticism for faculty quality, poor campus food, and mold-filled dorms, coupled with a 37% graduation rate.
6. South College
Located in Knoxville, South College, a private for-profit institution with a 100% acceptance rate, is plagued by complaints about lack of student advocacy, subpar professors, and a limited social life. The graduation rate is 40%.
7. Fayetteville State University
As a public HBCU in North Carolina, FSU offers affordability with a 36% graduation rate. However, safety concerns, average dorms, and a lack of attention to campus security contribute to its inclusion on this list.
8. Shaw University
A private HBCU affiliated with the National Baptist Convention, USA, Shaw University faces criticism for its small campus, unsupportive professors, and a low 17% graduation rate.
9. The University of Alaska Anchorage
This public university in Alaska, the largest in the state, lost accreditation for some programs, contributing to a low graduation rate. Rising costs, inadequate academic advising, and subpar campus food add to its drawbacks.
10. Texas College
Affiliated with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Texas College struggles with a 12.4% graduation rate, coupled with student complaints about financial aid and housing issues.
11. University of the District of Columbia
This public HBCU in Washington, DC, offers 81 degree programs but faces challenges due to poor funding, disorganized financial aid, and a low 10% graduation rate.
12. Mitchell College
Located in Connecticut, Mitchell College grapples with complaints about Wi-Fi, expensive meal plans, and a 41.5% graduation rate, coupled with a lack of emphasis on the college experience.
13. Yeshivas Novominsk
This small private Jewish college in Brooklyn faces scrutiny for a low graduation rate and a high transfer rate, raising concerns about its academic quality.
14. Grambling State University
While Grambling State University in Louisiana has notable alumni, rising tuition costs, safety concerns, and a lack of diversity contribute to its inclusion on this list.
15. Florida Memorial University
Florida Memorial University in Miami Gardens faces criticism for its expensive cost of attendance, infrastructure issues, housing problems, and a 32% graduation rate.
16. University of Montevallo
Founded in 1896, this public university in Alabama contends with limited commuter parking, lack of financial aid options, and concerns about cafeteria food quality.
17. Philander Smith College
A private liberal arts college in Arkansas, Philander Smith College, struggles with mold in dorms and a 40% graduation rate.
18. Waldorf University
Once a non-profit institution, Waldorf University in Iowa, now private for-profit, is criticized for being overpriced, lacking financial aid, and serving average food.
19. Sterling College
This Kansas-based Christian college faces challenges with one of the worst freshman retention rates and an average student debt of $25,000.
20. Mt. Sierra College
Located in Monrovia, Mt. Sierra College was placed on warning in 2018 due to being expensive, lacking recognition for degrees, and inadequate tutoring. It closed in 2019.
21. Salem University
The private for-profit university in West Virginia, Salem University, grapples with student complaints about food quality, unresponsive advisors, and absentee professors.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right college is a crucial decision that impacts one’s education and future. While this list provides insights into colleges facing challenges, it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and the quality of a college depends on factors such as the chosen degree program and personal fit. Always research thoroughly, consider multiple perspectives, and make an informed decision when selecting a higher education institution.