Rabbinical College of Long Island

The curriculum is singular: Talmudic and Rabbinical Studies, with degrees offered at the bachelor's and master's levels. This is not a liberal arts college—every class, every discussion, every hour is devoted to religious scholarship. Founded in 1965, the college follows the traditional Yeshiva model, emphasizing rigorous textual analysis of Jewish law and scripture. Faculty salaries rank #150 out of 161 in New York, suggesting a focus on religious mentorship over academic prestige. The 4-year graduation rate is a modest 34.2%, reflecting the demanding nature of the program and the fact that many students may leave to pursue other religious or vocational paths.

Life here revolves around study and prayer. The all-male student body lives in a close-knit, religiously observant community, with campus culture steeped in Orthodox Jewish traditions. Located in Long Beach, NY, the small-town setting offers few distractions from the college's singular focus. There’s no mention of athletics, Greek life, or typical undergraduate social scenes—this is a place for those fully committed to a rabbinical path. Housing details are sparse, but expect dormitories designed to support a rigorous study schedule, likely with shared spaces for Torah discussion.

Graduation rates are low (34.2%), but that’s typical for yeshivas, where many students leave to join religious communities or pursue other paths before completing degrees. For those who do graduate, career outcomes are narrowly focused: rabbinical roles, religious education, or community leadership within Orthodox Jewish circles. Median earnings for graduates are $27,418 six years post-entry—well below the national average, reflecting the non-secular, service-oriented nature of the work. Employment rates hover around 53.7%, though this likely undercounts those in unpaid religious positions.

Tuition is $19,636, with a typical total cost of $17,700 for on-campus students after aid. Financial aid details are sparse, but yeshivas often rely on community support and scholarships from Jewish organizations. The average net price isn’t specified, but the relatively low sticker cost suggests affordability for the target demographic—Orthodox Jewish families prioritizing religious education over secular career ROI.

This isn’t just another small college—it’s a gateway to rabbinical ordination for Orthodox Jewish men, with a laser focus on Talmudic scholarship. The 100% acceptance rateAcceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. and low graduation numbers aren’t flaws; they reflect a mission that prioritizes religious devotion over metrics. For the right student—someone all-in on a life of Torah study—there’s no substitute. The lack of distractions, the immersive environment, and the singular curriculum make it a unique institution in American higher education.