Best Regional Universities in the South: Elon University ranked 1st
The 2017 U.S. News & World Report rankings of Best Colleges provide a detailed snapshot of the best regional universities in the United States, categorizing schools based on academic quality, student satisfaction, and their impact on their respective communities. In the South, several institutions have earned high rankings for their commitment to education, fostering student success, and serving their local and national communities. Among the best regional universities in the South, Elon University, Rollins College, and The Citadel stand out for their academic excellence, distinguished reputations, and dedication to providing high-quality education in a wide variety of fields.
Elon University, ranked No. 1 in the region, has cemented its position as a leading institution in the South. Located in North Carolina, Elon has earned this prestigious ranking through its exceptional academic programs, strong campus community, and focus on fostering critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills. The university is renowned for its comprehensive liberal arts curriculum, which encourages students to engage in interdisciplinary learning and develop a broad base of knowledge across various disciplines. This approach is coupled with a strong emphasis on experiential learning, where students participate in internships, study abroad programs, and community service opportunities that enrich their education and prepare them for success in a globalized world. Elon also boasts a high student retention rate and a notable graduation rate, both of which reflect the strong academic support provided to students throughout their academic journey.
One of the key aspects of Elon’s success is its focus on student engagement. The university fosters a vibrant campus life, with a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that encourage students to explore their interests outside the classroom. Elon has also gained recognition for its commitment to sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint and promoting green practices across campus. The combination of a rigorous academic curriculum, a supportive and engaged campus community, and a strong commitment to preparing students for the challenges of the modern world have all contributed to Elon University’s top ranking among regional universities in the South.
In second place, Rollins College has long been recognized as one of the premier liberal arts institutions in Florida and the South. The college, located in Winter Park, Florida, is particularly known for its high academic standards, its dedication to personalized education, and its commitment to fostering student leadership. Rollins offers a comprehensive selection of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on the arts, humanities, and social sciences. The college prides itself on providing a rigorous education that prepares students to become critical thinkers and responsible citizens who are capable of contributing meaningfully to society.
Rollins College also excels in student satisfaction, with a reputation for small class sizes and close student-faculty interaction. This creates an environment where students can engage deeply with the material and receive individualized attention from professors who are invested in their success. The college’s beautiful campus, situated on the shores of Lake Virginia, offers students a scenic and inspiring environment in which to learn and grow. Rollins’ emphasis on community service and global citizenship further enhances its academic offerings, as students are encouraged to take part in programs that allow them to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and make a positive impact on the world around them. Rollins College’s commitment to producing well-rounded graduates with a strong sense of social responsibility is reflected in its consistent ranking as one of the top regional universities in the South.
The Citadel, ranked No. 3 in the South, is a unique institution that combines a rigorous academic curriculum with a strong military tradition. Located in Charleston, South Carolina, The Citadel is a public military college that offers students an education that emphasizes discipline, leadership, and service to the country. The institution is known for its challenging academic programs, which are designed to prepare students for careers in the military, government, business, and other fields. The Citadel’s cadet-focused environment creates a distinctive educational experience where students not only learn in the classroom but also develop leadership and teamwork skills through military training and service.
The Citadel’s reputation for producing strong leaders is reflected in the success of its graduates, many of whom go on to hold prominent positions in the military, government, and the private sector. The institution’s commitment to producing leaders of character, combined with its academic excellence, has earned The Citadel a top ranking among regional universities in the South. The college’s focus on producing well-rounded graduates who are capable of making meaningful contributions to society is a key factor in its continued success and high placement in the U.S. News & World Report rankings.
Further down the list, Campbell University is ranked 30th among the best regional universities in the South. Located in Buies Creek, North Carolina, Campbell University is a private Christian institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Known for its personalized attention to students and its emphasis on academic rigor, Campbell is dedicated to providing a well-rounded education that equips students with the skills necessary to succeed in their careers and contribute to society. The university also places a strong emphasis on service, encouraging students to engage in community service projects and volunteer opportunities as part of their academic experience. The U.S. News ranking also recognized Campbell University for its dedication to veterans, ranking it No. 22 among schools that provide specialized benefits and support for military veterans. This ranking underscores Campbell’s commitment to serving the diverse needs of its student body and providing opportunities for veterans to pursue higher education and career success.
Georgia College, rated as a Top Public Regional University, is another institution that stands out in the South for its academic achievements and student support services. Ranked 9th among public regional universities, Georgia College is Georgia’s only university to be ranked in the top 10 of this category. Located in Milledgeville, Georgia, Georgia College offers a strong liberal arts education with a focus on leadership, service, and community engagement. The university’s faculty members are dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The institution’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is another key factor that contributes to its high ranking, with Georgia College implementing a range of green initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint and fostering a more sustainable future.
Western Carolina University (WCU), ranked 13th among public regional universities in the South, has earned a reputation for providing a high-quality education at an affordable price. With a focus on student success and community engagement, WCU offers a range of academic programs designed to prepare students for careers in education, business, health sciences, and other fields. The university’s commitment to providing accessible education to a diverse student body has contributed to its continued success in the regional rankings. WCU also offers a range of extracurricular activities and service opportunities that enhance the student experience and encourage students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world challenges.
Radford University, ranked No. 16 in the U.S. News rankings, has made significant strides in recent years in strengthening its academic programs and increasing its visibility as a top regional institution in the South. Located in Radford, Virginia, Radford University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on interdisciplinary learning and student-centered education. Radford’s commitment to supporting veterans and providing opportunities for students to pursue careers in public service, education, and healthcare has earned it recognition on the “Best Colleges for Veterans” list. This dedication to serving students from all backgrounds and providing them with the resources they need to succeed is a key factor in Radford’s continued success.
In conclusion, the 2017 U.S. News & World Report rankings highlight the diverse range of institutions in the South that are providing high-quality education and support to their students. From Elon University’s top ranking to the success of universities like Rollins College, The Citadel, and Campbell University, these schools are contributing to the academic and personal development of students across the region. Their continued success in the rankings is a testament to their commitment to academic excellence, student engagement, and community service, making them important pillars of higher education in the South.
