Bradley University - Rankings

Bradley University, founded in 1897, is one of the premier private universities in the United States, located in Peoria, Illinois. As a comprehensive institution, Bradley offers a broad array of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines, providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in both their professional and personal lives. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence, real-world experience, and a commitment to community engagement, Bradley University has earned a reputation as one of the top universities in the Midwest.

The university’s academic structure is organized into several colleges, each offering specialized programs designed to meet the needs and interests of a diverse student body. These colleges include the Foster College of Business Administration, the College of Education and Health Sciences, the Slane College of Communications and Fine Arts, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the College of Engineering and Technology. Each of these colleges is committed to providing students with a high-quality education, backed by rigorous academic standards, innovative teaching, and a focus on practical, hands-on learning experiences.

The Foster College of Business Administration is one of Bradley University’s most well-known academic units. This college is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International, a distinction held by less than five percent of the world’s business schools. This accreditation is a testament to the high quality of Bradley’s business programs and the college’s commitment to providing students with an exceptional education in business administration. The Foster College of Business offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including degrees in accounting, business administration, finance, marketing, and management. Additionally, the college is recognized among the top business schools in the nation, with its undergraduate business program ranked 53rd among private universities and 11th among both private and master’s level schools. The college’s strong reputation and rigorous academic programs ensure that Bradley graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles in business and beyond.

Bradley’s College of Engineering and Technology is also highly regarded, with its programs in civil, industrial, electrical, manufacturing, and mechanical engineering all accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). The university’s commitment to maintaining high standards of academic excellence in engineering is further demonstrated by the 34th ranking of its College of Engineering and Technology in national surveys. In particular, the mechanical engineering program is consistently ranked among the top programs in the country, holding the 11th spot for undergraduate engineering schools. These rankings reflect Bradley’s strong commitment to providing students with a rigorous and comprehensive engineering education that prepares them to solve complex problems and innovate within their chosen fields.

Bradley’s College of Education and Health Sciences is another key area of the university, offering programs in disciplines such as school counseling, physical therapy, nursing, and health sciences. The university’s physical therapy program, ranked 69th in the U.S. News & World Report (2009), has earned a strong reputation for its excellence in training healthcare professionals. Additionally, the college’s post-master’s certificate program in school counseling is accredited by both the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that meets the standards set by these professional accrediting bodies.

The Slane College of Communications and Fine Arts at Bradley University offers a diverse array of programs in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Students in this college can pursue degrees in fields such as broadcast journalism, public relations, graphic design, music, theater, and more. The college’s interdisciplinary approach encourages students to explore various forms of expression and communication, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and effective communication skills. Graduates from the Slane College are well-prepared for careers in media, the arts, public relations, and other fields where communication and creativity are key.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is the largest academic unit at Bradley, encompassing a broad range of disciplines in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences. This college offers degrees in fields such as biology, chemistry, psychology, sociology, history, and philosophy, providing students with a strong foundation in both the liberal arts and scientific inquiry. The interdisciplinary nature of the programs in this college allows students to explore a wide range of topics, helping them develop well-rounded perspectives and critical thinking skills that are applicable in various professional contexts.

In addition to its traditional academic programs, Bradley University is known for its commitment to providing students with a comprehensive and well-rounded educational experience. One of the key aspects of this is the emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world experience. Whether through internships, research opportunities, or service learning projects, Bradley students are encouraged to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-life situations. This practical approach to learning ensures that students graduate not only with a solid academic foundation but also with the skills and experience needed to excel in their careers.

Bradley University’s reputation for academic excellence is reflected in its impressive rankings and recognition in national surveys. In 2011, U.S. News & World Report ranked Bradley University 6th among Regional Universities (Midwest), highlighting the university’s strong academic programs, faculty, and student support services. Additionally, Bradley was ranked 6th among Tier 1 Midwest Master’s universities in 2010, further solidifying its position as a top-tier institution in the region. Bradley’s College of Engineering and Technology was also highly ranked, with the mechanical engineering program earning a top spot among undergraduate engineering schools.

Bradley University’s commitment to providing a high-quality education is further evident in its recognition by other prestigious rankings. The Princeton Review has consistently featured Bradley in its list of “Best Business Schools,” with the university’s finance program ranked 13th in 2008. Kiplinger’s Personal Finance also ranked Bradley among the “50 Best Values in Private Universities,” underscoring the university’s commitment to providing an affordable and high-quality education. Additionally, Bradley was ranked among the “Top 25 Most Connected Campuses” and the “Top 25 Most Entrepreneurial Campuses” in the nation by The Princeton Review and Forbes magazine, reflecting the university’s strong support for student engagement, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Bradley’s commitment to excellence in education is complemented by its focus on fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus community. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities and student organizations, providing students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, build friendships, and engage in service to others. Bradley’s active student body is involved in a variety of activities, from academic and professional organizations to clubs focused on social justice, cultural awareness, and community service. The university’s strong sense of community and commitment to service reflects its core values and helps to shape well-rounded individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact in the world.

Bradley University also places a strong emphasis on providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students. The university offers a variety of student services, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed both academically and personally. The university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its efforts to create a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds. Bradley’s diverse student body, combined with its strong focus on Christian values and community engagement, fosters an atmosphere where students are encouraged to grow intellectually, socially, and spiritually.

In conclusion, Bradley University stands as a leading private institution of higher education, offering a comprehensive range of academic programs, a commitment to hands-on learning, and a focus on student success. With its strong academic reputation, diverse program offerings, and dedication to community engagement, Bradley continues to provide students with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and make meaningful contributions to society. Whether through its world-class business programs, cutting-edge engineering education, or vibrant liberal arts offerings, Bradley University offers students an exceptional educational experience that prepares them for success in the global marketplace. As it continues to build on its rich legacy, Bradley University remains a top choice for students seeking an academically rigorous and supportive environment in which to pursue their higher education goals.