Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Education

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$58,889

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

62%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$14,735

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

When considering a college education, many families are focusing on social mobility — the potential for students to improve their economic status through accessible education. The schools on this list are noted for their strong programs in Education, which is vital as educators shape future generations. Here’s a look at how these institutions stack up against each other.

What sets the top schools apart here is their performance in key areas: earnings after graduation, graduation rates, debt levels, and overall social mobility. These factors reflect not just the quality of education but the real-world outcomes for graduates. For example, Vanderbilt University leads the pack with impressive earnings of $91,565 and a graduation rate of 93%, making it clear that attending a school with strong support systems can have a significant impact on future success.

Consider two schools: CUNY Queens College and the University of Florida-Online. While CUNY Queens College has a lower graduation rate at 56% and higher debt at $10,298, it boasts a net price of just $4,195. In contrast, the University of Florida-Online has a higher graduation rate of 81%, but students graduate with $15,000 debt. This illustrates the trade-offs families must consider when evaluating options for education programs in this field.

Key Findings

Vanderbilt University graduates earn an average of $91,565, the highest on this list.

CUNY Queens College has the lowest net price at just $4,195.

The average graduation rate for these schools is 60%, highlighting varying levels of student support.

CUNY City College and CUNY Brooklyn College both have graduation rates of 56%, indicating a need for targeted resources.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $58,889

Avg. graduation rate 62%

Avg. net price $14,735

Avg. median debt $18,696

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Education

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN

Graduation93%

Earnings$91,565

Net Price$15,846

View full profile →

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY

Graduation56%

Earnings$62,763

Net Price$4,195

View full profile →

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY

Graduation55%

Earnings$60,752

Net Price$3,103

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Vanderbilt University in Nashville is known for its commitment to student success. The median earnings at 10 years post-graduation reach an impressive $91,565, suggesting that graduates often find lucrative opportunities in their fields. This is a place where dedicated students can thrive, surrounded by a vibrant campus culture and a strong academic community.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College sits in the heart of New York City, offering a diverse environment for its 12,550 students. While the graduation rate is 56%, the school nurtures a vibrant community, with 47% of its students receiving Pell Grants. This accessibility reflects the college's commitment to serving a broad range of students, helping them pursue their academic goals in a bustling urban setting.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College, located in the diverse borough of Brooklyn, serves a student body of over 10,500. With a graduation rate of 55%, the college remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere, with 57% of its students receiving Pell Grants. This support allows a wide array of individuals to pursue higher education despite financial hurdles, making it an appealing choice for many families.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Provo, Utah, Brigham Young University accommodates nearly 33,000 students in a unique environment rooted in faith and community. With an impressive 82% graduation rate, BYU is dedicated to student success, helping many navigate their academic journeys while fostering personal growth and connection.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

Valley City, ND · 958 students · Public

With a 99% acceptance rate, Valley City State University welcomes a diverse range of students, making it an accessible option for many. The university's intimate campus environment, with just 958 students, fosters close connections between faculty and learners, which can enhance the educational experience.

99% accepted 51% graduate $52,725 earnings

Valley's full profile

#11

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Smith College in Northampton, MA, shows a strong commitment to student success. This private nonprofit institution is home to around 2,544 students who benefit from a rich academic environment and supportive community that fosters personal growth and intellectual exploration. The median earnings for graduates after ten years reach an impressive $64,027, reflecting the value of a Smith education in the job market.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

East Texas A&M University

Commerce, TX · 9,912 students · Public

92% accepted 44% graduate $50,296 earnings

Illinois State University

Normal, IL · 19,057 students · Public

Illinois State University, located in Normal, IL, has a vibrant campus life that supports over 19,000 students. The university’s commitment to a well-rounded education prepares students not just academically but socially, creating a balanced college experience that many find enriching and fulfilling.

88% accepted 65% graduate $62,117 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#14

Goshen College

Goshen, IN · 773 students · Private nonprofit

84% accepted 63% graduate $51,943 earnings

Goshen's full profile

#15

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA · 1,108 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 51% graduate $55,383 earnings

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Edwardsville, IL · 8,750 students · Public

98% accepted 56% graduate $56,346 earnings

Southern's full profile

#17

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

With a vibrant campus in Miami, Florida International University is a dynamic hub for students seeking a diverse and engaging college experience. The school has a strong graduation rate of 74%, reflecting its commitment to student success and the supportive resources available on campus.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#18

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

CUNY York College is a public institution that offers an accessible path to higher education in New York City. With a graduation rate of 31%, it faces challenges but also a commitment to serving a diverse student population, including many first-generation college students.

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

At the University of Central Florida in Orlando, one of the nation's largest public universities, students benefit from a rich array of resources and an active campus life, serving over 59,000 students. The university boasts a graduation rate of 77%, reflecting its commitment to student success and providing diverse opportunities for academic growth in a bustling city environment.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#20

SUNY Oneonta

Oneonta, NY · 4,643 students · Public

70% accepted 70% graduate $60,386 earnings

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

The University of North Florida in Jacksonville has a vibrant campus environment that supports over 13,000 students. With a graduation rate of 69%, it's clear the university is committed to helping students succeed academically and personally, making it an inviting choice for those looking to thrive in their studies.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Niagara University

Niagara University, NY · 2,653 students · Private nonprofit

87% accepted 72% graduate $56,196 earnings

Niagara's full profile

#23

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ · 7,105 students · Public

62% accepted 86% graduate $73,323 earnings

Emporia State University

Emporia, KS · 2,239 students · Public

98% accepted 55% graduate $47,601 earnings

Emporia's full profile

#26

University of the Cumberlands

Williamsburg, KY · 6,941 students · Private nonprofit

99% accepted 48% graduate $45,036 earnings

University's full profile

#27

State University of New York at Plattsburgh

Plattsburgh, NY · 3,769 students · Public

78% accepted 59% graduate $56,403 earnings

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · 18,639 students · Public

San Francisco State University is situated in one of the most dynamic cities in the country, giving students access to a vibrant culture and numerous internship opportunities. With a large enrollment of 18,639 students, it offers a bustling campus life that attracts individuals from various backgrounds, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and experiences.

96% accepted 50% graduate $68,077 earnings

Trinity Christian College

Palos Heights, IL · 820 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 61% graduate $55,700 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#30

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

Ramapo College of New Jersey is nestled in the scenic Ramapo Mountains, providing an engaging environment for over 4,800 students. Known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to global learning, it attracts students who are eager to explore diverse perspectives and develop critical thinking skills.

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

#31

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA · 20,888 students · Public

James Madison University, located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is known for its vibrant campus life and strong academic programs. With an impressive graduation rate of 80%, students are well-supported in their journey toward earning a degree. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $69,954 after ten years, underscoring the university's commitment to preparing students for successful careers.

72% accepted 80% graduate $69,954 earnings

The University of Texas Permian Basin

Odessa, TX · 3,911 students · Public

95% accepted 42% graduate $56,073 earnings

Minot State University

Minot, ND · 2,062 students · Public

65% accepted 46% graduate $51,759 earnings

Buena Vista University

Storm Lake, IA · 1,366 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 54% graduate $49,156 earnings

University of Florida-Online

Gainesville, FL · 4,627 students · Public

The University of Florida-Online attracts students seeking flexibility and strong academic support, boasting an 81% graduation rate. With a median earning of $71,588 at 10 years, graduates are well-positioned in the job market. This can be a great option for those balancing work and study, as the online format allows for a tailored educational experience that fits individual schedules.

61% accepted 81% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#36

State University of New York at New Paltz

New Paltz, NY · 6,086 students · Public

62% accepted 70% graduate $58,073 earnings

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI · 5,049 students · Public

92% accepted 47% graduate $56,318 earnings

Southern Utah University

Cedar City, UT · 9,289 students · Public

Southern Utah University offers a unique blend of academic rigor and stunning natural beauty, nestled in Cedar City, UT. With a graduation rate of 60%, the university supports students in their pursuit of degrees while also providing access to outdoor adventures that enrich the college experience and promote work-life balance.

82% accepted 60% graduate $50,296 earnings

Southern's full profile

#39

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Chickasha, OK · 941 students · Public

66% accepted 41% graduate $41,913 earnings

University's full profile

#40

SUNY Old Westbury

Old Westbury, NY · 4,162 students · Public

With a diverse student population of over 4,100, SUNY Old Westbury emphasizes inclusivity and community engagement. The school’s location in Long Island offers a vibrant setting for students to explore both academics and extracurricular activities, encouraging personal growth alongside education.

84% accepted 46% graduate $58,526 earnings

Newman University

Wichita, KS · 851 students · Private nonprofit

74% accepted 53% graduate $55,041 earnings

Newman's full profile

#42

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA · 2,401 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 70% graduate $66,990 earnings

Pacific's full profile

#43

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA · 13,544 students · Public

93% accepted 65% graduate $62,569 earnings

Western's full profile

#44

The University of Texas at Tyler

Tyler, TX · 7,440 students · Public

94% accepted 51% graduate $57,053 earnings

University of Delaware

Newark, DE · 19,071 students · Public

71% accepted 80% graduate $72,950 earnings

University's full profile

#46

Washington State University

Pullman, WA · 21,099 students · Public

87% accepted 61% graduate $68,905 earnings

Washington's full profile

#47

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL · 4,015 students · Private nonprofit

71% accepted 65% graduate $66,099 earnings

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#49

University of Central Missouri

Warrensburg, MO · 5,648 students · Public

64% accepted 52% graduate $49,560 earnings

University's full profile

#50

Ball State University

Muncie, IN · 13,988 students · Public

86% accepted 63% graduate $51,833 earnings

Some key patterns emerge when we look closer at the data. Vanderbilt University significantly outperforms CUNY Brooklyn College in terms of earnings and graduation rates. While Vanderbilt students earn an average of $91,565 and graduate at a 93% rate, Brooklyn College sees average earnings of $60,752 and only 55% of students completing their degree. This contrast underscores how institutional support and resources can influence student outcomes.

After reviewing the 50 schools, it's important to weigh this information against your own priorities. Consider what matters most: Is it location? Program fit? Financial implications? Make a list of what you value, then match those priorities against the metrics you see here. A school that offers a lower net price might appeal more if finances are tight, while a higher graduation rate could be crucial if you’re looking for a robust support system.

Looking at the broader picture, these metrics reveal much about the journey from college to a stable career. For families, choosing the right educational path can lead to better job prospects and financial stability. It’s not just about earning a degree; it's about the impact that degree can have on a life. Each decision we make as part of this process shapes our future and our families' futures, underscoring the importance of thoughtful consideration in selecting an education program.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility