U.S. News & World Report Ranks Jacksonville University Among Best Universities in the South

Jacksonville University reached new heights in U.S. News & World Report's 2026 rankings, climbing inside the top 40 among Regional Universities in the South while its nursing program made a remarkable 51-spot jump in national standings. This marks the 14th consecutive year Jacksonville University has been recognized as a Best Regional University in the South.

This year, Jacksonville University ranks firmly in the top third of regional universities. Each year, U.S. News & World Report reviews thousands of higher education institutions across the country, gathering data on measures that include graduation and retention rates, strength of faculty, student-to-faculty ratio, and low rates of student debt upon graduation.

"As we continue to elevate the overall student experience, these rankings reflect the impact of our faculty and staff on our commitment to academic excellence," said Jacksonville University President Tim Cost. "These achievements across multiple categories, including our nursing program's noteworthy advancement, demonstrate our strategic focus on preparing tomorrow's leaders with the skills and knowledge that directly translate to meaningful careers in today's competitive job market."

For the fifth consecutive year, Jacksonville University's Keigwin School of Nursing's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program was recognized as one of the Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs, maintaining one of the highest NCLEX pass rates in the state.

"This achievement reflects the quality of our curriculum, the dedication of our educators and community partners and most importantly, the exceptional caliber of our students," said Dr. Lindsay Wolf, dean of nursing. "This recognition validates our mission to prepare compassionate, skilled nurses who will lead positive change and make a meaningful impact in healthcare."

Jacksonville University continues to be recognized across multiple specialty rankings, including Best Value Schools, Best Colleges for Veterans, and Best Undergraduate Business Programs. The university's School of Engineering and Technology also maintains its recognition for undergraduate engineering programs, with its mechanical and electrical engineering curricula specifically designed to prepare students for careers in the growing medical device industry.

The university's consistent recognition across these diverse categories reinforces Jacksonville University's reputation as an institution that combines academic rigor with practical application, preparing graduates for success in an increasingly competitive job market while maintaining its commitment to accessibility and student support.