Rockhurst University Ranking Profile

Founded in 1910 by the Jesuits, Rockhurst University is a comprehensive institution of higher learning located in Kansas City, Missouri, USA. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, Rockhurst holds a deep commitment to intellectual rigor, service to others, and the development of ethical leadership. Over the past century, Rockhurst has established itself as a beacon of quality education, blending a liberal arts foundation with professional programs that prepare students to become leaders in their fields. The university’s emphasis on intellectual and moral growth is guided by Jesuit principles that stress social responsibility, academic excellence, and service to the community.

As a member of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, Rockhurst is not only committed to academic excellence but also to promoting social justice, fostering ethical decision-making, and encouraging the holistic development of each student. With a rich history and a forward-looking approach to education, Rockhurst University is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for a lifetime of success and service.

Accreditation and Academic Programs

Rockhurst University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of academic quality, integrity, and institutional effectiveness. This accreditation allows Rockhurst to confer degrees at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels, enabling its students to pursue a wide range of academic and career paths. The university’s commitment to maintaining accreditation reflects its dedication to continuously improving the quality of education and student services.

One of the key academic areas at Rockhurst is the Helzberg School of Management, which is accredited by the AACSB International (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). This prestigious accreditation is granted to only the top business schools worldwide and is a mark of excellence in business education. The Helzberg School of Management offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration, finance, accounting, marketing, and other related disciplines. These programs are designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and ethical grounding necessary to succeed in the dynamic world of business. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical knowledge with real-world application, preparing them to take on leadership roles in various industries.

In addition to the business programs, Rockhurst is also well-regarded for its physical therapy program, which is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) of the American Physical Therapy Association. The university’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is designed to prepare students for careers as physical therapists, offering a combination of classroom learning, clinical experiences, and hands-on training. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the licensure examination in the state where they plan to practice, making Rockhurst an excellent choice for students seeking a career in healthcare. The university’s focus on experiential learning ensures that students are well-prepared for the practical challenges of physical therapy and have the skills necessary to provide high-quality care to patients.

Beyond these well-regarded programs, Rockhurst University offers a wide range of academic departments and degree programs, including art, biology, chemistry, education, history, psychology, sociology, philosophy, and foreign languages. These programs are designed to provide students with a broad-based liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are essential in today’s world. The university’s faculty members are dedicated to creating a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment where students can engage with complex ideas, develop their academic interests, and build the foundations for their future careers.

The university also emphasizes continuing education and professional development through its Rockhurst University Continuing Education Center Inc., one of the nation’s largest providers of adult continuing education. This initiative underscores the university’s commitment to lifelong learning and offers working professionals the opportunity to further their education, enhance their skills, and advance in their careers. Whether through certificate programs, workshops, or other non-degree courses, Rockhurst provides individuals with the tools they need to thrive in their professions and remain competitive in a rapidly changing job market.

Achievements and Ranking Profile

Over the years, Rockhurst University has earned a strong reputation for academic excellence, student success, and community engagement. The university’s rankings reflect its commitment to providing a high-quality education while also fostering a supportive environment for students. In 2012, Rockhurst was ranked 19th among Regional Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, a testament to its reputation for excellence in teaching, student retention, and overall educational quality. This ranking is based on several factors, including peer assessments, graduation rates, faculty credentials, and student satisfaction. Rockhurst’s ranking in this highly competitive category speaks to the university’s ability to deliver an outstanding education that prepares students for success in their careers and in life.

In addition to its 2012 ranking, Rockhurst was also ranked 24th in the Midwest Regional Universities category in the 2011 U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges rankings. This consistent recognition by U.S. News and World Report underscores the university’s continued focus on academic excellence and student success. The ranking is based on a comprehensive evaluation of factors such as peer assessment, freshman retention rate, average class size, acceptance rate, graduation rate, and alumni giving rate, all of which reflect Rockhurst’s strong commitment to providing a supportive and rigorous academic environment.

Furthermore, Rockhurst University has earned recognition from Forbes and the Center for College Affordability & Productivity (CCAP), which ranked Rockhurst 163rd among more than 4,000 colleges and universities nationwide in 2009. In this ranking, Rockhurst placed 3rd in Missouri, a reflection of its strong academic programs and commitment to affordability and accessibility. These rankings highlight the university’s ability to offer a high-quality education at a relatively affordable price, making it a top choice for students seeking value and excellence in their higher education experience.

In recognition of its commitment to technology and innovation, Intel ranked Rockhurst University among the nation’s top 30 wireless college campuses. This acknowledgment speaks to the university’s dedication to providing students with the technological resources they need to succeed in the digital age. With state-of-the-art facilities, robust Wi-Fi access across campus, and a commitment to integrating technology into the classroom, Rockhurst ensures that students are well-prepared for the technological demands of the modern workforce.

In addition to its impressive rankings, Rockhurst University has been recognized by the prestigious Carnegie Foundation for its efforts in improving higher education teaching practices. In 2006, Rockhurst was selected as one of 12 colleges and universities nationwide to lead an effort to improve teaching and learning in higher education. This recognition by the Carnegie Foundation underscores Rockhurst’s dedication to fostering an environment of continuous improvement in teaching and learning, ensuring that students receive the highest quality education possible. Furthermore, in 2003, the Carnegie Foundation recognized Rockhurst as one of 12 national leadership sites for the scholarship of teaching and learning, solidifying the university’s reputation as a leader in innovative educational practices.

Commitment to Community and Service

One of the defining features of Rockhurst University is its unwavering commitment to community service and social responsibility. As a Jesuit institution, Rockhurst emphasizes the development of ethical leaders who are not only well-prepared for their careers but also committed to making a positive impact on society. The university encourages students to engage in service-learning, volunteer work, and community-based research, all of which contribute to the betterment of the local and global communities.

Rockhurst’s community engagement efforts extend beyond the classroom. The university is deeply involved in Kansas City’s local community, with students, faculty, and staff regularly participating in volunteer activities, service projects, and initiatives aimed at addressing social issues such as poverty, education, and healthcare. This commitment to service reflects the university’s Jesuit values and its belief in the transformative power of education to create positive change in the world.

Conclusion

Rockhurst University stands as a premier institution of higher learning, combining a rich Jesuit tradition with a modern, forward-looking approach to education. With a strong academic foundation, a commitment to student success, and a dedication to community service, Rockhurst prepares its graduates to be leaders in their fields and active, engaged citizens in the world. The university’s strong academic programs, prestigious accreditations, impressive rankings, and focus on community engagement all contribute to its reputation as one of the top regional universities in the Midwest. Whether through its outstanding business programs, physical therapy training, or commitment to adult continuing education, Rockhurst University provides its students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.