20 Worst Colleges in the U.S.: Ranking Underperforming Institutions in 2024

Choosing the right college is a crucial decision that can shape a student’s future. While many institutions offer excellent educational opportunities, some fall short of expectations. This article examines 20 colleges in the United States that have been identified as underperforming based on various metrics.

These schools have been ranked among the worst due to factors such as low graduation rates, high student debt, poor job placement, and inadequate academic resources. The list serves as a cautionary guide for prospective students and their families, highlighting institutions that may not provide the best return on investment for higher education.

1. Everest College

Everest College, a former for-profit institution, faced numerous controversies and legal issues before its closure. The college was part of Corinthian Colleges, which shut down in 2015 amid allegations of fraud and predatory practices.

Students at Everest College often reported misleading recruitment tactics and poor educational quality. Many graduates struggled to find employment in their chosen fields, despite promises of career opportunities.

The college’s accreditation was questioned, and it faced lawsuits from state attorneys general. These legal actions alleged deceptive marketing and inflated job placement rates.

Everest College’s closure left thousands of students with substantial debt and incomplete degrees. The U.S. Department of Education later offered loan forgiveness to eligible former students.

The collapse of Everest College serves as a cautionary tale about the risks associated with some for-profit educational institutions. Its legacy continues to impact former students and the broader conversation about higher education accountability.

2. ITT Technical Institute

ITT Technical Institute was a for-profit college with campuses across the United States. It offered programs in various technical fields, including information technology, electronics, and business.

The institution faced numerous controversies throughout its existence. Many students complained about the quality of education and the high costs associated with attending ITT Tech.

In 2016, the U.S. Department of Education banned ITT Tech from enrolling new students using federal financial aid. This decision came after years of investigations into the school’s recruiting and financial practices.

Shortly after the ban, ITT Tech closed all of its campuses, leaving thousands of students stranded. The abrupt closure left many graduates with substantial debt and degrees of questionable value in the job market.

The collapse of ITT Technical Institute highlighted issues within the for-profit education sector. It served as a cautionary tale about the importance of thorough research before committing to a higher education institution.

3. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix has faced significant criticism for its low graduation rates and high student debt levels. As a for-profit institution, it has been accused of prioritizing revenue over student outcomes.

The school has struggled with accreditation issues and legal troubles. In 2019, it agreed to pay $191 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges of deceptive advertising.

Many employers view University of Phoenix degrees unfavorably compared to those from traditional non-profit universities. This can limit graduates’ job prospects and earning potential.

The university’s online-heavy model has been criticized for providing insufficient academic support and resources to students. This may contribute to poor retention and completion rates.

Financial aid practices at the University of Phoenix have also come under scrutiny. Some students report difficulty understanding the true costs of attendance and managing their loan obligations.

4. DeVry University

DeVry University has faced significant criticism and legal challenges in recent years. The for-profit institution has been accused of misleading students about job placement rates and potential earnings after graduation.

In 2016, DeVry settled a lawsuit with the Federal Trade Commission for $100 million over deceptive advertising practices. The settlement included student debt relief and refunds for affected individuals.

The university has also struggled with declining enrollment and financial difficulties. Several campuses have closed, reducing accessibility for students seeking in-person education.

Graduates have reported difficulties finding employment in their fields of study. Some have expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of education received compared to the high cost of tuition.

DeVry’s accreditation status has been questioned, leading to concerns about the value of degrees earned from the institution. These issues have contributed to its reputation as one of the worst colleges in the United States.

5. Trump University

Trump University operated from 2005 to 2010, offering real estate training programs. The institution faced numerous legal challenges and controversies throughout its existence.

Students paid substantial fees for courses and mentorship programs, with some packages costing up to $35,000. Many participants reported feeling misled by the university’s marketing claims and promises of success.

In 2013, the New York State Attorney General filed a $40 million civil lawsuit against Trump University for illegal business practices. The suit alleged that the institution made false claims about its instructors and courses.

Two class-action lawsuits were also filed in California, accusing the university of fraud and deceptive marketing. In 2016, Donald Trump agreed to settle these lawsuits for $25 million without admitting wrongdoing.

Trump University was not an accredited institution and did not confer degrees or college credits to its students. It ceased operations in 2010 amid mounting legal pressures and declining enrollment.

6. Corinthian Colleges

Corinthian Colleges was a network of for-profit colleges that closed in 2015 amid widespread controversy. The institution operated numerous campuses across the United States under various brand names, including Everest, Heald, and WyoTech.

Corinthian faced numerous legal challenges and investigations for deceptive marketing practices and falsified job placement rates. The U.S. Department of Education fined the college $30 million for these violations.

Students at Corinthian Colleges often accumulated substantial debt without receiving quality education or improved job prospects. Many graduates struggled to find employment in their fields of study.

The collapse of Corinthian Colleges left thousands of students with incomplete degrees and significant student loan debt. This event prompted discussions about the accountability of for-profit educational institutions and their impact on students’ financial futures.

7. Vatterott College

Vatterott College, a for-profit institution, faced numerous challenges before its closure in 2018. The school operated multiple campuses across the Midwest, offering vocational and technical programs.

Vatterott struggled with low graduation rates and high student loan default rates. Many students found themselves burdened with significant debt and limited job prospects after attending.

The college faced legal issues, including lawsuits alleging deceptive recruitment practices. These allegations damaged its reputation and contributed to declining enrollment.

Financial troubles ultimately led to Vatterott’s abrupt shutdown, leaving students stranded mid-program. The closure affected thousands of students across its campuses, disrupting their educational pursuits.

The U.S. Department of Education terminated Vatterott’s participation in federal student aid programs due to financial concerns. This decision further accelerated the institution’s downfall.

8. Anthem College

Anthem College, a for-profit institution, faced significant challenges before its closure in 2014. The school struggled with low graduation rates and high student loan default rates.

Many students reported dissatisfaction with the quality of education provided. The college’s accreditation was also a concern, as it limited transfer options for students.

Financial troubles plagued Anthem College, leading to its abrupt shutdown. This left many students in limbo, unable to complete their programs or transfer credits easily.

The college’s focus on vocational programs did not always align with industry needs. This mismatch often resulted in poor job placement rates for graduates.

Anthem College’s closure highlighted the risks associated with some for-profit educational institutions. It serves as a cautionary tale for prospective students considering similar schools.

9. Globe University

Globe University, a for-profit institution, faced significant challenges before its closure in 2016. The school operated multiple campuses across the Midwest, offering various degree programs.

Globe University encountered legal issues related to its recruitment practices and educational quality. In 2014, the Minnesota Attorney General filed a lawsuit against the institution for misleading students about job prospects.

The school’s accreditation came under scrutiny, leading to its loss of federal funding eligibility in 2016. This financial blow ultimately resulted in Globe University’s closure, leaving many students in limbo.

Critics argued that Globe University prioritized profit over educational outcomes. Some former students reported difficulty transferring credits or finding employment in their fields of study after graduation.

The closure of Globe University serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of thorough research when selecting a higher education institution.

10. Kaplan University

Kaplan University, now part of Purdue University Global, faced criticism for its online education model and high student debt levels. The for-profit institution struggled with low graduation rates and poor job placement outcomes for its graduates.

Many students reported difficulty transferring credits earned at Kaplan to other institutions. This limited their ability to continue their education elsewhere or advance their careers as desired.

The university also faced legal scrutiny over its recruitment practices. Allegations arose that Kaplan used aggressive tactics to enroll students, potentially misleading them about program costs and job prospects.

Some former students expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of instruction and level of support provided by Kaplan. These issues contributed to the institution’s reputation as one of the less favorable options in higher education.

11. Harrison College

Harrison College, a for-profit institution based in Indiana, closed its doors in 2018 after 116 years of operation. The college faced numerous challenges in its final years, including declining enrollment and financial difficulties.

Students reported issues with the quality of education and job placement assistance. Many struggled to find employment in their chosen fields after graduation, despite promises made during recruitment.

The college’s sudden closure left many students in limbo, with incomplete degrees and limited options for transferring credits. This abrupt end to their education caused significant stress and financial hardship for affected students.

Harrison College’s accreditation was also called into question, raising concerns about the value of degrees earned from the institution. The college’s closure serves as a cautionary tale about the risks associated with for-profit educational institutions.

12. Charlotte School of Law

Charlotte School of Law, a for-profit institution in North Carolina, faced severe challenges before closing its doors in 2017. The school lost its accreditation from the American Bar Association due to concerns about academic standards and admissions practices.

Students at Charlotte School of Law struggled with low bar exam pass rates, which fell significantly below state averages. This left many graduates unable to practice law despite their substantial financial investment in their education.

The U.S. Department of Education terminated the school’s access to federal student loans, citing its failure to meet basic standards. This decision left many students in a difficult position, unable to complete their degrees or transfer credits to other institutions.

Charlotte School of Law’s closure left hundreds of students with significant debt and unfinished degrees. The school’s troubles serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of accreditation and academic standards in legal education.

13. American InterContinental University

American InterContinental University (AIU) has faced criticism for its low graduation rates and high student debt levels. The for-profit institution, founded in 1970, operates primarily online with physical campuses in Atlanta and Houston.

AIU’s graduation rate hovers around 17%, significantly below the national average. Many students struggle to complete their programs, potentially leaving without a degree but still burdened by loans.

The university has been scrutinized for its recruitment practices and the value of its degrees in the job market. Some employers have expressed skepticism about the quality of education provided by AIU.

Student reviews often mention concerns about the rigor of coursework and the level of support received from faculty and staff. The institution’s accreditation has also been questioned in the past, though it currently maintains accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission.

14. Strayer University

Strayer University is a for-profit institution with numerous campuses across the United States. The university has faced criticism for its low graduation rates and high student debt levels.

Strayer’s six-year graduation rate hovers around 20%, significantly below the national average for four-year institutions. This means many students leave without completing their degrees.

The university’s reliance on part-time faculty has raised concerns about the quality of education provided. Some students report feeling disconnected from their instructors and lacking adequate support.

Strayer’s tuition costs are higher than many public universities, leading to substantial student loan burdens. Graduates often struggle to find high-paying jobs that justify their educational investment.

The institution has also faced scrutiny for its aggressive recruitment tactics and marketing practices. Some former students claim they were misled about job prospects and program outcomes.

15. Argosy University

Argosy University was a for-profit institution that faced numerous controversies before its closure in 2019. The school operated multiple campuses across the United States and offered online programs.

Argosy encountered significant financial difficulties and accusations of mismanagement. The university failed to distribute financial aid to students, leaving many in dire straits.

The institution lost its accreditation and faced lawsuits from students who claimed they were misled about program offerings and job prospects. Many graduates reported difficulty finding employment in their fields of study.

Argosy’s sudden closure left thousands of students stranded mid-program. This abrupt end to operations caused significant disruption to students’ educational and career plans.

The U.S. Department of Education cut off federal funding to Argosy due to its financial instability, ultimately leading to the university’s downfall.

16. Sanford-Brown College

Sanford-Brown College was a for-profit institution with multiple campuses across the United States. The college offered programs in healthcare, design, and technology fields.

Sanford-Brown faced numerous challenges and controversies during its operation. The institution struggled with low graduation rates and high student loan default rates.

Many students reported difficulties finding employment in their chosen fields after graduation. This led to concerns about the value of the education provided by Sanford-Brown.

In 2015, the college’s parent company, Career Education Corporation, announced the closure of all Sanford-Brown campuses. The decision came amidst increased regulatory scrutiny and declining enrollment.

The closure left many students with incomplete degrees and substantial student loan debt. Some former students pursued legal action against the institution, citing issues with job placement claims and educational quality.

17. The Art Institutes

The Art Institutes, a system of for-profit colleges, has faced significant criticism and legal challenges in recent years. These institutions have been accused of using deceptive marketing practices to recruit students.

Many former students have reported feeling misled about job prospects and program quality. Allegations include inflated job placement rates and unrealistic salary expectations presented to prospective students.

The Art Institutes have also struggled with accreditation issues. Several campuses have lost their accreditation or closed entirely, leaving students in difficult situations.

Financial troubles have plagued the institution, with some locations abruptly shutting down. This has left many students with incomplete degrees and substantial student loan debt.

Critics argue that The Art Institutes prioritize profit over educational quality. Concerns have been raised about the value of degrees from these institutions in the job market.

18. Westwood College

Westwood College was a for-profit institution that operated multiple campuses across the United States. The college faced numerous legal challenges and controversies throughout its existence.

Westwood College struggled with accreditation issues, which limited the transferability of credits earned by students. This problem often left graduates with degrees that held little value in the job market.

The institution faced lawsuits and investigations related to deceptive marketing practices and false promises about job placement rates. These allegations damaged its reputation and credibility within the education sector.

In 2016, Westwood College ceased operations and closed all of its campuses. This closure left many students with incomplete degrees and significant student loan debt.

The college’s closure highlighted the risks associated with for-profit education institutions and their sometimes questionable practices in student recruitment and program offerings.

19. Independence University

Independence University was a private, for-profit institution based in Salt Lake City, Utah. The school offered online degree programs in various fields, including healthcare, business, and technology.

In 2021, Independence University closed its doors permanently. The closure came after the U.S. Department of Education cut off federal funding to the institution.

The university faced criticism for its high costs and low graduation rates. Many students reported difficulties in transferring credits to other institutions after the closure.

Independence University was part of the Center for Excellence in Higher Education, which faced legal challenges and allegations of deceptive practices. The closure left many students in limbo, struggling to complete their education or obtain refunds.

20. Herzing University

Herzing University, a for-profit institution with multiple campuses across the United States, faces criticism for its high costs and questionable outcomes. The university’s tuition fees are significantly higher than those of many public colleges and universities.

Graduates often struggle with substantial student loan debt. The average debt for Herzing students is notably higher than the national average for college graduates.

Employment rates for Herzing alumni are lower than those of comparable institutions. Many graduates report difficulty finding jobs in their chosen fields after completing their degrees.

The university has faced legal challenges regarding its recruitment practices and marketing claims. Some former students allege that Herzing misrepresented job placement rates and program quality.

Accreditation concerns have also plagued Herzing University. While it maintains institutional accreditation, some individual programs have struggled to meet industry standards.

Factors Contributing to Poor College Performance

Several key issues can significantly impact a college’s performance and reputation. These factors often intertwine, creating challenges for institutions and students alike.

Accreditation Issues

Accreditation plays a crucial role in a college’s standing. Loss of accreditation can severely damage an institution’s credibility and student opportunities.

Unaccredited colleges may struggle to attract quality faculty and students. Their degrees hold less value in the job market, limiting graduates’ career prospects.

Some institutions face probation or warnings from accrediting bodies due to academic, financial, or administrative shortcomings. This status can deter potential students and impact enrollment numbers.

Financial Instability

Financial troubles can cripple a college’s ability to provide quality education. Budget cuts often lead to reduced course offerings and limited resources for students.

Poorly managed institutions may face mounting debt, forcing them to increase tuition fees. This can price out many prospective students and decrease enrollment.

Lack of funds can result in outdated facilities and technology. Students may miss out on essential hands-on experience in their fields of study.

Low Graduation Rates

Low graduation rates often indicate underlying problems within an institution. They can reflect inadequate support systems for students or poor academic quality.

Colleges with low completion rates may struggle to retain students. This creates a cycle of declining enrollment and reduced funding.

High dropout rates can damage a college’s reputation. Prospective students and their families may view such institutions as risky investments.

Some factors contributing to low graduation rates include:

• Insufficient academic support
• Financial barriers for students
• Lack of engagement in campus life
• Poor student-faculty ratios

Impact on Students and Alumni

Attending low-ranked colleges can significantly affect students’ future prospects and financial stability. These institutions often struggle to provide quality education and career support.

Career Prospects

Graduates from poorly ranked colleges may face challenges in the job market. Employers often favor candidates from more reputable institutions, potentially limiting career opportunities.

Some companies actively avoid recruiting from certain low-ranked schools. This can result in lower starting salaries and fewer job offers for graduates.

Networking opportunities may be limited, as these colleges typically have smaller alumni networks. This can hinder students’ ability to make valuable professional connections.

Student Debt

Students at low-performing colleges often accumulate substantial debt. These institutions may offer less financial aid, forcing students to rely heavily on loans.

Graduates frequently struggle to repay their loans due to lower-paying jobs. Default rates tend to be higher among students from these colleges.

Some schools have been accused of predatory lending practices, leaving students with unmanageable debt burdens. This can have long-lasting impacts on graduates’ financial stability and credit scores.

Rising student debt can delay major life milestones for alumni, such as buying a home or starting a family.

Addressing the Challenges

Improving underperforming colleges requires targeted interventions and policy changes. Effective solutions involve both institutional reforms and government actions.

Reforms and Solutions

Many struggling colleges are implementing strategic reforms. Some institutions are revamping curricula to better align with job market demands. Others focus on enhancing student support services, including tutoring and career counseling.

Financial management improvements help stabilize budgets. This may involve cost-cutting measures or developing new revenue streams. Some colleges partner with local businesses to create internship programs and improve job placement rates.

Investing in technology upgrades can enhance the learning experience. Online and hybrid course offerings may attract more students. Faculty training programs aim to improve teaching quality and student engagement.

Governmental and Policy Interventions

State and federal governments play a crucial role in addressing college performance issues. Increased funding for public institutions can help improve resources and facilities. Some states tie funding to performance metrics like graduation rates.

Policy changes may include stricter accreditation standards to ensure quality education. Revised financial aid policies can make college more accessible while encouraging completion. Some proposals suggest loan forgiveness programs for graduates who work in high-need fields or underserved areas.

Regulatory reforms aim to increase transparency in college reporting. This helps students make informed decisions about their education. Grant programs support research into effective teaching methods and student success strategies.