Adelphi University’s Robert B. Willumstad School of Business ranked first among Long Island institutions in the 2026 Poets & Quants Best Undergraduate Business Schools ranking, the university announced March 23.
Adelphi climbed 17 spots, from No. 102 in 2025 to No. 85 this year, marking the largest increase among all colleges and universities included in the ranking. The improvement was driven in part by gains in career outcomes, which rose from No. 103 to No. 79, and admissions standards, which increased from No. 97 to No. 83, according to Poets & Quants.
The publication evaluates undergraduate business programs nationwide using a composite index that includes surveys of alumni two years after graduation, as well as school-reported data on admissions, academic experience and employment outcomes.
Adelphi officials pointed to the school’s Willumstad Winning Edge program as a key factor in the rankings jump. The two-course sequence pairs each student with faculty and career-readiness advisers while emphasizing hands-on professional experience and career preparation.
“While we are extremely proud of this ranking, it is what is behind the ranking that really sets Adelphi apart,” said MaryAnne Hyland, dean of the Willumstad School of Business, in a press release sent to the Herald.
“Our commitment to student success is reflected in high alumni satisfaction and strong internship and job placement rates that give our students the competitive edge necessary to thrive in today’s economy.”
Hyland added that recent graduates have reported high satisfaction with their experience, and that the school’s focus on career readiness has contributed to improved internship and job placement outcomes.
The recognition comes as Adelphi prepares to expand its business offerings in New York City. Later this spring, the university will open a new Manhattan Center at 529 Fifth Ave., near Grand Central Terminal. The three-floor, 51,000-square-foot facility is designed to serve working professionals seeking advanced degrees or certifications.
Beginning this fall, the Manhattan Center will offer the Willumstad School of Business’s Flex MBA and Professional Accelerated MBA programs. University officials said the programs can be completed in as little as one year.
