Top Universities in Indiana

From elite private universities to highly regarded public research institutions and specialized colleges, Indiana’s universities are recognized for their contributions to education, their national and international rankings, and the diverse opportunities they offer students. Among the most prominent institutions are the University of Notre Dame, Purdue University–West Lafayette, and Indiana University–Bloomington, all of which have consistently been ranked among the top universities in the United States.

The University of Notre Dame stands as a beacon of academic excellence and tradition. According to the U.S. News & World Report 2009 rankings, Notre Dame was ranked as the 18th best national university in the United States, reflecting its status as one of the country’s premier institutions.

Founded in 1842, Notre Dame is a private Roman Catholic research university that has earned a reputation for its rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and a commitment to values-based education. The university’s Mendoza College of Business is especially renowned, consistently earning high marks in both undergraduate and graduate program rankings. In 2009, Business Week ranked Notre Dame’s undergraduate business program 2nd in the nation, while its MBA program was ranked 20th. The Financial Times Global MBA Rankings of 2008 placed Notre Dame’s MBA program 79th in the world, further emphasizing its international recognition for business education.

Notre Dame’s engineering programs also demonstrate the university’s strong academic standing. In the U.S. News & World Report 2010 rankings, the university’s graduate engineering programs were ranked 51st in the nation. This positions Notre Dame as a significant player in the field of engineering, contributing research and innovation that have impacts far beyond its campus. The university’s dedication to academic rigor and comprehensive student support systems has made it a sought-after destination for students across the globe, further reinforcing its reputation as an institution that fosters leadership, intellectual curiosity, and personal growth.

Purdue University–West Lafayette, the flagship campus of the Purdue University system, is another notable institution that continues to receive high rankings and accolades. In the 2009 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Purdue was listed as the 66th best national university, highlighting its strong academic and research programs. Purdue is particularly renowned for its focus on technology, engineering, and the sciences, securing its reputation as one of the top technology schools in the world. The Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) of 2008 placed Purdue 17th globally for its achievements in engineering, technology, and computer sciences. This international recognition underscores Purdue’s leading role in these fields and its commitment to advancing research that pushes the boundaries of innovation.

Purdue’s undergraduate engineering programs were ranked 9th in the nation among doctoral-granting universities by U.S. News & World Report in 2009, further solidifying its position as a leader in engineering education. The university's College of Engineering is known for its rigorous curriculum, distinguished faculty, and collaborative research initiatives. Additionally, Purdue's contribution to advancements in fields like space exploration, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence has not only enhanced its reputation but has also established it as a hub for students interested in making significant impacts in technology and science.

Indiana University–Bloomington, a major public research university, holds its own as one of the top-tier institutions in the state, earning the 71st spot in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2009 rankings. The Kelley School of Business at IU is especially well-regarded, providing high-quality education in business and management. It is the only top 20 business school to offer graduate management programs online, reflecting the university’s dedication to accessibility and innovation in education. In 2007, the Wall Street Journal ranked the Kelley School of Business 5th for regional MBA programs, a testament to its strong emphasis on practical, real-world business education and its ability to adapt to the evolving needs of students and professionals.

Beyond its business programs, Indiana University is known for its comprehensive research capabilities and its contributions to fields such as the arts, sciences, and social sciences. The university’s emphasis on research and student engagement, combined with its vibrant campus culture and array of academic offerings, makes it a top choice for students seeking a diverse and well-rounded education. The resources available at IU, from libraries to research facilities and internship opportunities, play a crucial role in preparing students for successful careers and fulfilling lives.

While these three universities—Notre Dame, Purdue, and Indiana University–Bloomington—dominate Indiana’s higher education landscape, other institutions in the state also contribute to its robust academic reputation. Ball State University, for example, has been named one of the best universities in the Midwest by The Princeton Review and is ranked among the top 25 percent of colleges in the United States. This recognition underscores Ball State’s commitment to providing quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for its students.

Butler University, located in Indianapolis, has also earned its place among Indiana’s most respected educational institutions. It was ranked 8th among Midwest Regional “Great Schools at Great Prices” and has been recognized as one of the region’s “A+ Schools for B Students.” These accolades reflect Butler’s affordability, strong academic programs, and dedication to ensuring that students from diverse academic backgrounds can achieve success.

Huntington University, a smaller yet respected institution, was named one of the best colleges and universities in the Midwest by The Princeton Review in 2011. This recognition highlights Huntington’s focus on personalized education, small class sizes, and a strong sense of community. The university’s emphasis on values-based education and its commitment to providing opportunities for student leadership and service make it a standout in the state.

Indiana University Southeast has also been recognized for its part-time MBA programs, which were ranked in the top 10 nationally by BusinessWeek in 2009. This distinction underscores IU Southeast’s commitment to providing high-quality education that caters to the needs of working professionals and lifelong learners.

Indiana State University’s MBA program, which was included in The Princeton Review’s “Student Opinion Honors for Business Schools” in the general management category, reflects the university’s strong emphasis on preparing students for the complexities of modern business. This recognition attests to the university’s focus on student satisfaction, quality instruction, and relevant, career-oriented education.

Other institutions in Indiana, such as Purdue University Calumet and Purdue University North Central, have made significant contributions to the state’s educational landscape. Purdue University Calumet has maintained continuous accreditation by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1969, demonstrating its long-standing commitment to educational quality. Purdue University North Central, on the other hand, is recognized as a comprehensive college in the Midwest that offers a range of undergraduate programs and emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded educational experience.

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, known for its top-tier engineering programs, has been rated as the best undergraduate engineering college in the nation that offers only the bachelor’s or master’s degree as its highest degree. This prestigious ranking highlights the institute’s specialized focus and its dedication to producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers in the fields of engineering and technology.

Taylor University, another significant institution, was ranked as the Number Three Baccalaureate College in the U.S. by the Washington Monthly College Survey in 2010. This recognition reflects the university’s commitment to providing high-quality, well-rounded education with a focus on service and community engagement.

The University of Evansville stands out for its excellence in study abroad programs, being ranked within the top five comprehensive universities in the United States for this area. This achievement showcases the university’s commitment to providing students with a global perspective and opportunities for cross-cultural experiences.

Valparaiso University has also earned recognition as one of the top-ranked regional universities in the Midwest, holding the 5th position for overall quality among regional universities as of 2011. Its dedication to offering a strong educational foundation combined with a nurturing environment helps students excel both academically and personally.

Trine University has been named one of the best colleges and universities in the Midwest by The Princeton Review, reflecting its focus on student-centered learning and its reputation for academic quality and community involvement.

Finally, IUPUI (Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis) has made the first annual Forbes.com list of the top 15 percent of America’s best colleges, underscoring its prominence as a comprehensive urban university that serves a diverse student population. Its programs in health sciences, engineering, and public affairs are particularly well-regarded, further adding to the university’s reputation for excellence.