Best Regional Universities (Midwest) - Creighton ranked 1st
Creighton University, located in Omaha, Nebraska, has earned the top spot in the U.S. News & World Report 2017 rankings for Best Regional Universities in the Midwest. The university’s exceptional academic offerings, commitment to service, and Jesuit values have helped it to maintain a strong reputation in higher education. Known for its personalized attention to students, its focus on experiential learning, and its emphasis on ethical leadership, Creighton stands out as a leader in the Midwest region. The U.S. News ranking recognizes the university's strong academic performance, the success of its faculty in research and teaching, and its role in developing students who are well-prepared to succeed both in their careers and as engaged citizens.
Creighton’s ranking is a reflection of its rigorous academic programs, including its prestigious schools of law, business, medicine, and pharmacy. The university offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines, with a particular emphasis on programs that foster interdisciplinary learning and community engagement. The university's commitment to providing a well-rounded education, which integrates academics with service to others, aligns with the Jesuit tradition of educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, the university’s location in Omaha provides students with access to a vibrant, growing city that offers ample opportunities for internships, jobs, and community engagement. It is clear that Creighton’s blend of strong academic rigor, community-oriented values, and commitment to student success has earned it the recognition of being the top regional university in the Midwest.
Following closely behind Creighton is Butler University, which ranked second in the Best Regional Universities in the Midwest category. Located in Indianapolis, Indiana, Butler is well-regarded for its close-knit community, small class sizes, and strong academic programs. As a private university, Butler prides itself on providing students with a personalized education that encourages both intellectual curiosity and social responsibility. Butler’s excellent reputation extends across a variety of academic disciplines, but it is particularly noted for its programs in the arts, business, and health sciences. The university’s strong emphasis on experiential learning, including internships, study abroad programs, and research opportunities, allows students to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world situations.
Butler also excels in preparing students for success after graduation. The university boasts a high graduate employment rate and a strong alumni network that helps students gain access to internships and job opportunities. Furthermore, Butler’s commitment to diversity and inclusion enhances the educational experience for all students, allowing them to interact with peers from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. This is not just a result of academic programming but also of the vibrant campus life and extensive extracurricular activities that enrich students' social and personal development. Butler’s ranking in the U.S. News & World Report demonstrates its commitment to excellence in teaching and its role as a leading institution in the Midwest region.
Drake University, ranked third in the same category by U.S. News & World Report, is another standout institution in the Midwest. Located in Des Moines, Iowa, Drake is a private university that combines academic rigor with a commitment to service and social responsibility. The university is recognized for its strong liberal arts programs, as well as its specialized graduate and professional programs in law, business, and pharmacy. Drake’s unique approach to education, which encourages students to think critically and engage deeply with real-world issues, makes it a favorite among students who are looking for a well-rounded, practical education. One of the hallmarks of Drake’s academic environment is its focus on mentorship and personalized attention, which is facilitated by small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio.
Drake University has long been known for its strong ties to the local community, and its students often engage in internships and service learning opportunities that deepen their understanding of the region’s social, political, and economic dynamics. This community-based learning approach, combined with an emphasis on leadership, ethics, and civic engagement, prepares Drake graduates to make meaningful contributions to society. Drake’s inclusion in the U.S. News rankings reflects its continued commitment to excellence and its growing reputation as a top-tier regional university in the Midwest.
Valparaiso University, ranked fourth in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, stands out as one of the best regional universities in the Midwest, not only for its academic rigor but also for its outstanding value and undergraduate teaching. As a private Christian university located in Valparaiso, Indiana, the institution is committed to providing a comprehensive education that prepares students to excel in both their careers and their personal lives. One of Valparaiso’s most notable strengths is its strong academic programs in engineering, business, and law, as well as its focus on interdisciplinary learning and ethical leadership.
Valparaiso’s ranking as the number one institution in the Midwest for Best Value is a testament to its efforts to provide high-quality education at an affordable price. The university offers generous financial aid packages, making it an attractive option for students seeking a top-notch education without accumulating significant debt. Additionally, Valparaiso’s ranking for Best Undergraduate Teaching reflects the university’s commitment to student-centered learning, with professors who prioritize mentorship and active engagement in the classroom. These factors combine to make Valparaiso University one of the most respected and sought-after institutions in the Midwest.
John Carroll University (JCU), ranked seventh in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, is another institution in the Midwest that is known for its strong commitment to undergraduate teaching. Located in University Heights, Ohio, JCU offers a rigorous liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking, ethics, and social responsibility. In addition to its academic excellence, the university places a strong emphasis on creating a supportive and inclusive campus community where students can grow both academically and personally.
The fact that JCU was ranked second for its “Strong Commitment to Undergraduate Teaching” is a reflection of the university’s approach to student-centered learning. Faculty members are dedicated to creating engaging and interactive classroom environments where students are encouraged to take an active role in their education. Additionally, JCU’s ranking among the top institutions for veterans underscores its commitment to supporting all students, including those who have served in the military. The university’s strong business programs, particularly in the John M. and Mary Jo Boler School of Business, also earned recognition as one of the best in the region, further bolstering its reputation as a leading institution in the Midwest.
Drury University, ranked 11th on the list of Best Regional Universities in the Midwest, continues to be recognized for its ability to provide personalized attention to students. Drury, located in Springfield, Missouri, offers a diverse range of programs in the arts, business, and health sciences, with a particular emphasis on small class sizes and a high level of student engagement. The university’s 70 percent of classes with 20 or fewer students and its favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1 ensure that students receive the individualized attention they need to succeed. Drury’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, student-centered education is reflected in its continued success in regional rankings.
Finally, the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) ranks 46th overall among all regional universities in the Midwest and 11th among public regional universities. The university’s strong academic programs, commitment to student success, and growing reputation in the region make it a standout institution in Nebraska. UNK’s inclusion on the Top Five list for Least Debt reflects the university’s focus on helping students manage the cost of their education and graduate with manageable levels of debt. The university’s placement on the Best Colleges for Veterans list further highlights its commitment to serving the needs of a diverse student body, including military veterans seeking a quality education.
The 2017 U.S. News & World Report rankings of Best Regional Universities in the Midwest highlight the diversity and quality of institutions in the region. From large universities like Creighton and Butler to smaller institutions like Drake and Drury, these colleges offer a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for students seeking a high-quality education. Whether it’s a focus on personalized attention, service to the community, or preparing students for success in the workforce, these universities exemplify the values of academic excellence and student-centered learning. For students seeking a strong educational foundation in the Midwest, these institutions represent some of the best options available, and their continued success in the rankings is a testament to their commitment to excellence.
