I've been following the 2026 college rankings closely, and Fairfield University just got some incredible recognition that speaks directly to the question of whether college is worth it. They ranked #37 among nonprofit colleges nationwide for return on investment, based on a Georgetown University study analyzing long-term financial value.
But here's what really stood out: Fairfield ranked #6 nationwide for student experience in the WSJ/College Pulse rankings. That's out of 584 universities evaluated! The ranking considers campus facilities, community, social life, and diversity – all the things that make the day-to-day college experience meaningful. And their business school? The Online MBA program ranked #69 in the world and #30 in the U.S. for best value for money according to QS rankings .
What this tells me is that college can deliver both – an amazing experience AND strong career outcomes. You don't have to choose between enjoying your four years and setting yourself up financially. When people ask me if college is worth it, I point to schools like Fairfield that are getting national recognition for exactly this balance. Do your research, find a school that delivers both, and go for it.
But here's what really stood out: Fairfield ranked #6 nationwide for student experience in the WSJ/College Pulse rankings. That's out of 584 universities evaluated! The ranking considers campus facilities, community, social life, and diversity – all the things that make the day-to-day college experience meaningful. And their business school? The Online MBA program ranked #69 in the world and #30 in the U.S. for best value for money according to QS rankings .
What this tells me is that college can deliver both – an amazing experience AND strong career outcomes. You don't have to choose between enjoying your four years and setting yourself up financially. When people ask me if college is worth it, I point to schools like Fairfield that are getting national recognition for exactly this balance. Do your research, find a school that delivers both, and go for it.