Flagler College Ranking Profile

Flagler College, located in St. Augustine, Florida, is a private liberal arts institution that has earned a reputation for offering a high-quality education in a beautiful and historic setting. Founded in 1968, Flagler College has grown significantly in both academic stature and campus facilities, and it is considered one of the best colleges in the Southeastern United States. The institution's commitment to providing an exceptional undergraduate experience is reflected in its strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and range of extracurricular opportunities, making it a popular choice for students seeking a personalized, rigorous education.

Flagler College offers a wide variety of academic departments and programs, each designed to foster intellectual growth and personal development. The College’s academic offerings include departments in Art and Design, Business Administration, Communication, Education, English, Liberal Studies, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Sport Management, and Theatre Arts. This diverse range of disciplines allows students to choose from a variety of majors such as accounting, art education, business administration, communication, economics, elementary and secondary education, sociology, and political science, among others. Whether students are interested in the arts, humanities, social sciences, or business, Flagler College offers a well-rounded education that prepares students for a broad spectrum of career paths.

The College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), which ensures that its academic programs meet the rigorous standards of quality and integrity set by one of the most respected accrediting bodies in higher education. This regional accreditation is a significant factor for students and employers, as it assures that Flagler College meets high academic standards and that its degree programs are recognized by other colleges and universities, as well as professional organizations across the country.

Flagler College is also licensed by the State Board of Independent Colleges and Universities in Florida, approved by the U.S. Department of Justice for foreign students, and certified for the training of Veterans and War Orphans by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. These accreditations and certifications ensure that the College meets the regulatory and educational requirements necessary for students from a variety of backgrounds to attend and succeed at Flagler. This is particularly significant in attracting a diverse student body, including international students and veterans who can benefit from the educational opportunities provided by the College.

In terms of rankings, Flagler College consistently receives high marks for its academic offerings, campus life, and overall value. In The Princeton Review’s 2010 edition of its popular guidebook The Best 371 Colleges, Flagler College was featured as one of the top colleges in the United States, highlighting its strong academic programs, supportive campus environment, and the quality of student life. The Princeton Review only profiles about 15% of America’s 2,500 four-year colleges, so being included in this prestigious guide underscores Flagler College’s position as one of the nation’s best institutions for undergraduate education.

U.S. News & World Report also ranks Flagler College highly, placing it 11th on its list of the best Southern baccalaureate colleges in the 2010 edition of America’s Best Colleges. This ranking reflects Flagler’s academic excellence and its strong reputation within the region. In addition, the College is ranked as one of the top colleges in the South for its value, earning a spot on America’s 100 Best College Buys list produced by Institutional Research & Evaluation, Inc. This list identifies colleges that provide the best education at the most affordable prices, a distinction that makes Flagler College an appealing option for students seeking quality education without the financial burden of more expensive schools.

In the 2008 edition of America’s Best Value Colleges, Flagler College was recognized as one of only 75 private colleges across the country included in the prestigious list. The College’s inclusion in this list underscores its commitment to providing a high-quality education that is accessible and affordable to students. By maintaining low tuition rates and offering generous financial aid packages, Flagler College ensures that students from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds can pursue their academic and career aspirations without taking on overwhelming debt.

Another recognition of Flagler College’s educational quality came from Kaplan/Newsweek, which identified the College as a "Hidden Treasure." This accolade reflects Flagler’s academic rigor, unique location, and strong sense of community, which may not be widely known outside of Florida but is highly valued by those who attend. Flagler College’s status as a “Hidden Treasure” speaks to its ability to offer a world-class education in a relatively small and intimate setting, making it an excellent option for students seeking a personalized academic experience.

Flagler College is also included in TIME Magazine’s Best College for You guide, further solidifying its reputation as a top-tier liberal arts institution. The College’s strong academic programs, commitment to student success, and exceptional campus resources have made it an ideal choice for students seeking a college that will prepare them for success in both their personal and professional lives.

The physical campus of Flagler College is one of its most distinctive features. The College is housed in the historic former Hotel Ponce de León, a Spanish Renaissance-style building that was originally constructed in the late 19th century by the industrialist Henry Flagler. The campus is located in the heart of St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, which provides students with a unique backdrop of historical and cultural significance. The historic district of St. Augustine is filled with Spanish colonial architecture, charming streets, and significant landmarks that enhance the College’s academic and social environment. Students are able to enjoy not only the rich cultural offerings of the area but also the opportunity to engage in internships, volunteer opportunities, and community service projects that connect them to the larger community.

In addition to its academic programs, Flagler College offers a variety of extracurricular activities that help to enhance the overall student experience. The College’s athletic teams, known as the Saints, compete in the NCAA Division II Sunshine State Conference, providing students with the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports, including soccer, basketball, and tennis. The College also boasts a strong arts and cultural presence, with theatre productions, art exhibits, and music performances taking place throughout the year. This vibrant campus life, combined with the College’s academic offerings, makes Flagler College a well-rounded institution that encourages students to engage in all aspects of their education and personal growth.

Flagler College’s focus on undergraduate education, its rigorous academic programs, its value as an affordable institution, and its prime location in historic St. Augustine make it a top choice for students seeking a high-quality liberal arts education. With its strong reputation for academic excellence, outstanding faculty, and commitment to student success, Flagler College offers students a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment where they can thrive. Whether students are interested in the arts, sciences, business, or social sciences, Flagler College provides the tools, resources, and opportunities needed for them to succeed academically and professionally. For these reasons, Flagler College continues to be recognized as one of the premier liberal arts institutions in the Southeastern United States.