Best Regional Universities in the Midwest - Creighton ranked No. 1

Creighton University has long been regarded as one of the leading institutions of higher education in the Midwest, and its ranking as the No. 1 “Best Regional University” in the Midwest according to the 2015 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” issue further solidifies its reputation. Creighton’s ascent to the top of this prestigious list reflects the university’s long-standing commitment to academic excellence, its robust programs in various disciplines, and its focus on the holistic development of its students. In addition to its academic offerings, the university’s commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging campus environment has contributed to its continued success in rankings year after year.

Creighton University, located in Omaha, Nebraska, is a private, Jesuit institution that has been consistently recognized for its academic programs and student-centered approach. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including highly regarded programs in the health sciences, business, law, and the liberal arts. Creighton’s commitment to Jesuit values emphasizes the development of the whole person, and its focus on service, ethics, and social justice permeates all aspects of student life and learning. This commitment to preparing students not only for successful careers but also for lives of purpose and integrity plays a key role in the university’s strong showing in national rankings.

Another critical factor contributing to Creighton’s top ranking is its strong emphasis on undergraduate education. Despite its growing graduate and professional programs, Creighton remains deeply focused on providing personalized attention and a rigorous academic experience for its undergraduate students. The university’s small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and supportive learning environment all help to foster an atmosphere of intellectual engagement and individual growth. This dedication to providing an exceptional undergraduate education is evident in Creighton’s high retention and graduation rates, further reinforcing its standing as one of the top regional universities in the Midwest.

Following Creighton University in the 2015 U.S. News & World Report rankings of the Best Regional Universities in the Midwest is Butler University, which secured the second spot. Located in Indianapolis, Indiana, Butler University is well-regarded for its strong academic programs, particularly in the fields of business, education, health sciences, and the arts. Like Creighton, Butler is a private institution, and it shares a similar commitment to student success, small class sizes, and personalized attention. Butler’s focus on teaching excellence and a liberal arts education has played a central role in its strong ranking among regional universities in the Midwest.

One of the factors that distinguishes Butler University is its emphasis on student involvement both inside and outside the classroom. Butler is known for its vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations, service opportunities, and extracurricular activities that encourage students to develop leadership skills and engage with their communities. This well-rounded educational experience, which integrates academic rigor with opportunities for personal development, is one of the reasons why Butler is consistently ranked among the top regional universities in the Midwest. The university’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and dynamic environment for its students contributes to its strong standing in the rankings.

Valparaiso University, ranked as the No. 5 Best Regional University in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, is another notable institution that has garnered attention for its academic excellence and commitment to student success. Valpo’s ranking as No. 2 in the Midwest for Best Undergraduate Teaching further underscores the university’s reputation for delivering high-quality educational experiences. The U.S. News rankings also highlight Valparaiso’s status as a leader in academic innovation, with the university being tied for 1st in the Midwest for “Up-and-Coming Regional Universities.” This recognition is particularly significant, as it reflects Valpo’s ability to make promising and innovative changes in areas such as faculty development, academic offerings, student life, and campus facilities.

Valparaiso University, a private institution in Indiana, has invested heavily in enhancing the quality of its academic programs and providing students with opportunities for engagement and growth. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines, including business, engineering, the humanities, social sciences, and the natural sciences. Valpo’s commitment to offering students a transformative educational experience is reflected in its strong faculty, many of whom are active in research and scholarship. Additionally, the university’s emphasis on service learning and community engagement helps students develop a sense of responsibility and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

The University of Evansville, ranked 9th out of 146 in the “Best Regional Universities: Midwest” category by U.S. News & World Report, is another notable institution that has achieved recognition for its academic programs and student outcomes. The University of Evansville, a private institution located in Evansville, Indiana, has been lauded for its affordability and commitment to providing a high-quality education at an accessible price. The university is particularly well-regarded for its programs in the arts, engineering, business, and health sciences, with many of its degree offerings designed to prepare students for careers in high-demand fields.

In addition to its strong academic programs, the University of Evansville was ranked 4th in the Midwest for “Great Schools at Great Prices,” reflecting its ability to offer a high-quality education at a cost that is competitive with other institutions. The university has also been included in U.S. News & World Report’s “A-Plus Schools for B Students” list, further highlighting its commitment to providing opportunities for students with a wide range of academic abilities. The University of Evansville’s inclusive and supportive learning environment, combined with its strong commitment to student success, contributes to its reputation as one of the best regional universities in the Midwest.

Hamline University, which was ranked 12th in the Midwest regional universities category, has also earned recognition for its academic programs and student-focused approach. Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, Hamline University is a private institution with a long history of providing high-quality education in the liberal arts tradition. The university is particularly known for its strong commitment to undergraduate teaching and its emphasis on experiential learning, including internships, study abroad programs, and service learning opportunities. Hamline’s status as the top-ranked university in Minnesota for regional universities is a testament to its ongoing commitment to providing students with an exceptional educational experience.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) also maintained a strong position in the 2015 U.S. News rankings, coming in at 47th in the “Best Regional Universities: Midwest” category. SIUE’s ranking reflects its commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience to students, with a focus on academic excellence, faculty engagement, and community service. The university was also recognized as one of the “Up and Comers” among Midwest regional universities, signaling its continued efforts to innovate and improve in key areas such as academic programs, student life, and facilities.

The rankings of regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report offer valuable insights into the strengths and priorities of institutions across the region. Universities like Creighton, Butler, Valparaiso, and others have distinguished themselves not only through academic rigor but also by their ability to create supportive and engaging environments for students. These institutions are committed to providing students with opportunities for personal and academic growth, preparing them to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Their high rankings reflect their ongoing dedication to excellence in teaching, faculty engagement, and student success.