When evaluating higher education institutions, it’s crucial to consider factors such as graduation rates, student debt, and post-graduate employment opportunities. Based on available data, here are 21 colleges across various U.S. states that have faced criticism due to these and other concerns:
Worst Colleges in America 2025:
Alabama: Alabama State University
With a graduation rate of 26%, median earnings of $27,700 six years post-graduation, and a loan default rate of 21% within three years, Alabama State University has faced challenges in student outcomes.Alaska: University of Alaska Anchorage
This institution reports a 31% graduation rate and a 12.2% loan default rate three years after graduation. However, the median starting salary for graduates is relatively higher at $46,000.Florida: Florida Memorial University
Florida Memorial University has been noted for its high average student debt of $31,169.Louisiana: Grambling State University
With a graduation rate of 41% and average student loan debt exceeding $25,732, Grambling State University has faced scrutiny regarding its financial stability.Kentucky: Lindsey Wilson College
Lindsey Wilson College has a graduation rate of 33% and average student debt of $21,000.North Carolina: Shaw University
Shaw University reports a graduation rate of 18% and average student debt of $28,144.South Carolina: Morris College
Morris College has a graduation rate of 20% and average student debt of $26,000.New York: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has a graduation rate of 57% and average student debt of $32,600.California: Columbia College Hollywood
Columbia College Hollywood has a graduation rate of 35% and has faced criticism for high tuition fees.Colorado: Nazarene Bible College
With a graduation rate of 16.4% and average student debt exceeding $42,340, Nazarene Bible College has faced challenges in student outcomes.Virginia: Stratford University
Stratford University has a graduation rate of 30% and average student debt of $10,834.Arkansas: Philander Smith College
Philander Smith College has a graduation rate of 39% and average student debt of $26,000.New Mexico: University of the Southwest
With a graduation rate of 20% and average student debt of $23,112, the University of the Southwest has faced scrutiny regarding its financial stability.North Dakota: Mayville State University
Mayville State University has a graduation rate of 30% and average student debt of $23,896.New Hampshire: New England College
New England College reports a graduation rate of 38% and average student debt of $34,536.Delaware: Wesley College
Wesley College has a graduation rate of 17% and average student debt of $31,084.Maine: University of Maine at Augusta
With a graduation rate of 30% and average student debt of $23,896, the University of Maine at Augusta has faced challenges in student outcomes.Illinois: DeVry University
DeVry University has a graduation rate of 29% and average student debt of $23,769.Georgia: Art Institute of Atlanta
The Art Institute of Atlanta has a graduation rate of 16% and average student debt of $31,656.Washington D.C.: University of the District of Columbia
The University of the District of Columbia has a graduation rate of 18% and average student debt of $22,000.South Dakota: Black Hills State University
Black Hills State University has a graduation rate of 38% and average student debt of $25,400.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What criteria determine a “worst” college?
Factors such as low graduation rates, high student loan default rates, significant student debt upon graduation, and poor post-graduate employment outcomes contribute to this classification.Are these rankings universally accepted?
No, different organizations may use varying methodologies, leading to differing assessments. It’s essential to consult multiple sources when evaluating colleges.Can colleges improve their standings?
Yes, institutions can implement reforms to enhance academic programs, support services, and financial management, leading to improved outcomes over time.**Should I avoid these colleges entirely?
