Best Regional Colleges in the South (US News)
High Point University stands out as the top institution in the U.S. News & World Report 2017 rankings for Best Regional Colleges in the South, a testament to its academic excellence, strong student support services, and comprehensive focus on fostering student success. The university's consistent dedication to quality education has earned it the number one spot in this competitive category. Following High Point University is Flagler College in second place, which also exemplifies strong academic rigor and a supportive learning environment. The University of the Ozarks rounds out the top three in the Best Regional Colleges in the South category, demonstrating its commitment to affordability, accessibility, and student-centered education. These institutions represent the best of higher education in the South region and highlight the emphasis on fostering a well-rounded educational experience that prepares students for both personal and professional success.
High Point University's number one position in the rankings is a reflection of its mission to prioritize academic quality, personalized attention, and comprehensive support for its students. The university is well-known for its small class sizes, a feature that allows students to have individualized attention from professors and better engage with their academic studies. With a focus on creating a community that values both academics and extracurricular involvement, High Point University offers students opportunities for leadership, research, and internships that extend their learning beyond the classroom. The university's dedication to ensuring a high-quality education is matched by its efforts to create an enriching and welcoming campus environment, which includes a range of programs and opportunities tailored to students' needs. High Point University continues to prove that a combination of academic rigor and holistic support fosters long-term success for its students.
Flagler College, the second-ranked institution in the U.S. News & World Report 2017 rankings for Best Regional Colleges in the South, has also demonstrated consistent academic excellence. Flagler College has built its reputation on a focus on providing students with a well-rounded undergraduate experience that combines a strong liberal arts education with experiential learning opportunities. Known for its affordability, Flagler College is a leader in making higher education accessible without compromising quality. This institution is deeply committed to providing students with the tools they need to succeed in the workplace and in their personal lives. Flagler College’s emphasis on academic achievement, financial affordability, and student services has allowed it to maintain its competitive position in the rankings and offer students the chance to gain a world-class education in a supportive and enriching environment.
The University of the Ozarks, ranked third in the U.S. News & World Report 2017 Best Regional Colleges in the South, is another institution that has distinguished itself through its affordability and dedication to providing students with access to excellent higher education. With a strong focus on student-centered programs and career preparation, the University of the Ozarks has proven itself as a valuable resource for students in the South. The institution has created an environment that supports both academic success and personal growth. Its affordability, combined with strong academics, makes it an attractive option for students seeking access to higher education without the burden of excessive debt. The University of the Ozarks offers a comprehensive undergraduate experience, emphasizing teaching, research, and real-world opportunities that prepare students for long-term success after graduation.
One noteworthy example of progress within this competitive category is Keiser University, which has moved up significantly in the 2017 U.S. News & World Report rankings. Keiser University now holds the 23rd spot among the Best Regional Colleges in the South, an impressive improvement from its previous position of 40th two years ago. This increase in ranking reflects Keiser University’s strong emphasis on innovation, adaptability, and continuous improvement in its academic programs and student support services. Over the past few years, Keiser University has prioritized creating pathways for students to achieve their academic and professional goals, while focusing on personalized instruction, practical skills development, and workforce readiness. The institution’s efforts have clearly paid off, as its peer institutions and students alike have recognized its value and quality. Keiser University's increased ranking demonstrates its commitment to excellence and accessibility, and the institution continues to provide students with the resources and opportunities necessary to thrive in higher education.
Another important story within the 2017 rankings is that of Reinhardt University, which made a significant leap to the 29th position among the Best Regional Colleges in the South. Reinhardt University’s move up the rankings is evidence of the institution's commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and academic quality. One key factor contributing to Reinhardt University’s progress is its improved peer assessment score, which increased from 2.6 to 2.7 in this year’s survey. Peer assessment scores are a reflection of the opinions of academics and administrators familiar with a school’s undergraduate academic excellence, and this score weighs heavily—about 22.5 percent—on the institution's overall ranking. Reinhardt University’s focus on academic excellence, student support, and affordability has led to this improvement in its peer assessment, demonstrating that the institution is meeting the expectations of higher education leaders and providing a supportive and enriching environment for its students.
The steady progress of Keiser University and Reinhardt University within the U.S. News & World Report rankings demonstrates how institutions can adapt and grow by focusing on innovation, student needs, and academic excellence. Both universities have embraced new opportunities, improved their programs, and prioritized affordability and accessibility to ensure that students have the support and resources necessary to achieve their goals. Their improved rankings are reflective of this focus, showcasing the value of adaptability, strategic planning, and innovation within the competitive higher education landscape.
The 2017 U.S. News & World Report rankings for Best Regional Colleges in the South highlight how the region continues to prioritize academic rigor, affordability, and holistic student support. Institutions like High Point University, Flagler College, and the University of the Ozarks continue to lead the way by offering accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to their students. At the same time, institutions like Keiser University and Reinhardt University demonstrate how strategic improvements and innovations can result in significant ranking advancements, improving opportunities for their students.
In the context of regional higher education, these rankings are a reminder that success is measured not just by academic programs or financial stability but also by how institutions prioritize access, affordability, experiential learning opportunities, and student engagement. The colleges in the South region—particularly those mentioned in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2017 rankings—are preparing students for long-term personal and professional success by focusing on innovative programs, a commitment to individualized learning, and fostering inclusive and diverse learning environments.
In conclusion, the 2017 U.S. News & World Report rankings for Best Regional Colleges in the South emphasize the strength, diversity, and opportunities available at institutions in the region. High Point University, Flagler College, and the University of the Ozarks continue to lead as premier institutions, reflecting the high standards of education, affordability, and student success in the South. Meanwhile, the progress of Keiser University and Reinhardt University highlights how innovation, adaptability, and strategic planning can improve outcomes for students while earning recognition within the competitive higher education landscape. These rankings speak to the overall quality of higher education opportunities in the South and the commitment of these institutions to provide students with the skills and opportunities necessary to succeed in their academic and personal journeys.
