Best Master's Universities

The U.S. News & World Report's "Master's Universities" category includes institutions that provide a comprehensive range of undergraduate and master’s-level programs, but do not offer doctoral degrees. These universities are spread across four geographic regions in the United States: North, South, Midwest, and West. The rankings in this category provide a clear picture of the institutions excelling in academics, student engagement, and overall educational value. Below are some of the top-ranked Master's Universities in the U.S., highlighting their distinct strengths in various areas such as student satisfaction, value for money, and academic reputation.

Rollins College (South Region)

Rollins College is ranked No. 1 among regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report in its 2010 rankings. This prestigious standing reflects the college's excellent academic programs and commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education. The college is particularly known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and student engagement. Furthermore, Rollins has earned a place among the Top 40 master’s-level colleges for the number of students studying abroad, showcasing its dedication to global education. The college's international exposure is further underlined by its placement in the Institute of International Education's Open Doors Report (2007). Additionally, Rollins is included in The Princeton Review’s 2009 list of The Best 296 Colleges, highlighting its broad recognition as one of the best institutions in the country.

Elon University (South Region)

Ranked No. 2 among 117 Southern master's-level universities, Elon University stands out as a leader in student engagement and academic quality. Elon’s 2010 U.S. News & World Report ranking places it just behind Rollins College, ahead of other notable institutions such as Stetson University and James Madison University. Elon’s strong commitment to student engagement is recognized by Newsweek-Kaplan, which labeled it as the “hottest college in the nation” for student involvement. The university is also included in the 2010 U.S. News & World Report’s list of "up-and-coming" universities, reflecting its growing national reputation. Elon's programs, especially in business and communications, continue to receive national attention for their high-quality curricula and impressive career outcomes.

Villanova University (North Region)

Villanova University holds the No. 1 rank in the North Region for Master’s Universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. Villanova’s academic excellence extends to multiple disciplines, and its College of Engineering is particularly well-regarded. Ranked 10th in the nation for undergraduate engineering programs (among schools offering only bachelor’s or master’s degrees), Villanova's engineering programs are highly competitive. The university’s Executive MBA program is also highly esteemed, as it is ranked #29 by the Financial Times, reflecting the strength of Villanova’s business education. Furthermore, Villanova's strong commitment to providing an excellent education at an affordable price is evident in its recognition as one of the best universities in the North for both academic quality and value.

Providence College (North Region)

Providence College has consistently been ranked among the top three regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report since 1997. In 2010, it was again placed among the North Region's top 10 schools. The College is known for its strong academic programs and for offering an exceptional education at a competitive price. Additionally, Providence’s School of Continuing Education is the oldest adult education institution in the region, further establishing the college's reputation as a leader in both traditional and non-traditional higher education.

Providence also stands out in the “great schools, great prices” category in U.S. News & World Report, meaning it is recognized not only for the quality of its education but also for providing an exceptional value to students. The college’s combination of high academic standards, excellent faculty, and affordability makes it a top choice for students in the North.

Creighton University (Midwest Region)

Creighton University is ranked No. 1 in the Midwest Region for “best value” according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2010 rankings. This distinction is given to schools that provide the best return on tuition investment, meaning Creighton offers exceptional educational quality and opportunities for career advancement relative to the cost of attendance. Creighton is also ranked as one of the most "wired" colleges in the country by PC Magazine and The Princeton Review, which reflects the university's commitment to integrating technology into the educational experience. Furthermore, its School of Dentistry is ranked 4th nationally by the Gourman Report, underscoring the strength of its specialized programs. Creighton’s focus on practical learning, alongside its strong reputation for healthcare education, continues to attract students from across the country.

Butler University (Midwest Region)

Butler University is another notable institution in the Midwest, ranked 3rd in the region for its strong commitment to undergraduate teaching, according to U.S. News & World Report. Butler has long been recognized for offering a high-quality education with a focus on personalized learning, small class sizes, and strong student-faculty relationships. The university is also home to a AACSB-accredited College of Business, ensuring that its business programs meet the highest standards of excellence. Moreover, Butler ranks 56th in the Graduate Pharmacy Schools category, making it a strong contender for students pursuing a career in healthcare and pharmacy.

Trinity University (West Region)

Trinity University has been ranked No. 1 in the West Region for 18 consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report. This long-standing achievement speaks to the university’s consistent commitment to academic excellence and student satisfaction. Trinity is recognized as a Best Buy in the Fiske Guide to Colleges 2010, indicating that it offers an exceptional education at an affordable price. Additionally, the university is listed in Intel Corp’s “Top 10 Most Unwired Campuses”, which highlights its strong technological infrastructure and commitment to providing students with the tools necessary for success in the digital age.

Santa Clara University (West Region)

Santa Clara University ranks 2nd in the West Region for the 20th consecutive year, underscoring its long-standing reputation for academic excellence. The university’s Undergraduate Business Program is particularly well-regarded, earning a #32 ranking nationally by BusinessWeek. Santa Clara is also recognized for its AACSB-accredited accounting program, which is one of only five such programs in California, providing students with a solid foundation for careers in accounting and business. Additionally, Santa Clara’s commitment to graduate education ensures that it remains a top destination for students pursuing master’s-level degrees in a variety of fields.

Conclusion

The U.S. News & World Report rankings of Master’s Universities provide a comprehensive snapshot of institutions across the United States that excel in providing a well-rounded education with a strong focus on both undergraduate and graduate studies. From the Southern rankings of Rollins College and Elon University, to the Midwest success of Creighton University and Butler University, and the West leadership of Trinity University and Santa Clara University, these schools represent the best of American higher education for students pursuing a master’s degree.

Each of these institutions offers something unique, whether it's their emphasis on student engagement, value for money, research opportunities, or specialized programs in fields like engineering, business, and healthcare. Ultimately, these rankings showcase universities that not only provide high-quality education but also ensure that students are well-prepared for successful careers post-graduation.