The Worst Colleges for Bachelor’s Degree Payoff, Ranked

Naropa University in Boulder was founded in 1974 by Tibetan Buddhist teacher Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche. The school is known for its contemplative approach to education, blending traditional academics with meditation, creative practice, psychology, religious studies, writing, and alternative learning models.

With a 10-year average payoff of -$9,000, Naropa sits just below zero in the first decade. Its programs often lead toward fields where income can build slowly, such as counseling, education, writing, arts, or nonprofit work. The payoff could change for graduates who pursue licensure, graduate degrees, or steadier professional tracks.