Universities are key to getting new industries off the ground, providing the infrastructure to take paradigm-shifting ideas to the next level.

In blockchain and digital finance technology, how do they measure up?

CoinDesk wanted to see how well universities are doing on blockchain. Over the last few months, we've gathered data on a host of metrics, from the courses in cryptocurrencies that universities offer, to whether they have dedicated blockchain clubs and research centers.

During a special CoinDesk Live episode on Oct. 6 at 4 p.m. ET, we will release the results of the first CoinDesk U ranking. We are inviting students from around the U.S., as well as representatives from student club networks, the crypto industry and leading institutions, to discuss academia's relevance and support for Web 3.0.

The event comes at a time of unprecedented stress on the university business model, with many wondering whether pricey degrees still make sense, particularly during COVID-19 where the socializing benefit is lost. There are many skeptics of formal education in crypto, which tends towards self-help and collaborative learning.