Best Regional Universities in the North - Villanova No. 1
The U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings of America’s Best Colleges for 2015 spotlighted several top universities and colleges in the Northern United States, highlighting their academic excellence and commitment to providing high-quality education. Among the institutions featured in the rankings, Villanova University, Providence College, Bentley University, the University of Scranton, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and Bryant University stand out for their exceptional achievements and consistent placements among the region's top schools. These universities not only excel academically but also offer diverse programs that prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world.
Villanova University, located in Pennsylvania, was ranked 1st among "Best Regional Universities - North" in the 2015 U.S. News rankings. This prestigious position is a testament to Villanova's commitment to providing a high-quality education, its strong faculty, and its emphasis on student success. The university's academic reputation is complemented by its vibrant campus life, where students engage in a variety of extracurricular activities, internships, and community service opportunities that enhance their college experience. Villanova offers a diverse range of programs, from business and engineering to humanities and social sciences, providing students with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and in life.
Villanova’s ranking reflects its strong academic performance, high graduation rates, and the overall satisfaction of its students. The university is known for its small class sizes, which foster a personalized learning environment and allow students to develop meaningful relationships with their professors. Additionally, Villanova’s commitment to service and its Catholic mission give students the opportunity to contribute to their communities while receiving a world-class education. As a result, Villanova has earned its place at the top of the regional universities in the North.
Following closely behind Villanova University in the rankings is Providence College, which secured the 2nd spot among “Best Regional Universities - North” for 2015. Situated in Rhode Island, Providence College is known for its rigorous academics, strong liberal arts programs, and Catholic heritage. The university’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education is reflected in its diverse academic offerings, which include majors in business, education, humanities, and the sciences.
Providence College places a strong emphasis on student engagement and success. The faculty at Providence is dedicated to fostering an environment where students are encouraged to think critically, engage with diverse perspectives, and grow both academically and personally. The college’s strong academic programs, combined with its active campus life, make it a popular choice for students seeking a well-rounded educational experience. Providence College's reputation for academic rigor and its focus on service to others contribute to its high ranking in the U.S. News survey.
Bentley University, ranked 6th among “Best Regional Universities - North” in 2015, is another institution that has earned recognition for its exceptional academic offerings. Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, Bentley University is known for its strong business programs, particularly in fields such as accounting, finance, and information systems. Bentley is also recognized for its focus on developing leadership skills, offering students ample opportunities for internships, research projects, and networking with industry professionals.
Bentley University is ranked 51st among “Best Business Programs” in the country, a position that reflects its strong business curriculum and its commitment to providing students with the practical skills needed to succeed in the competitive job market. Bentley has long been recognized for its emphasis on technology and innovation, ensuring that students are prepared to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving business environment. Moreover, Bentley boasts the highest freshman retention rate among regional universities in the North, underscoring the university’s strong support system and its ability to foster an engaging and supportive learning environment for its students.
The University of Scranton, located in Pennsylvania, ranked 7th in the “Best Regional Universities in the North” category in the 2015 U.S. News rankings. The University of Scranton is a private, Catholic institution that offers a diverse range of academic programs, including business, health sciences, education, and the humanities. Scranton’s commitment to academic excellence, along with its emphasis on values-based education, has earned it recognition as one of the top universities in the region.
Additionally, the University of Scranton was ranked No. 12 in the “Great Schools at Great Prices” category, which highlights colleges that offer high academic quality while maintaining a reasonable cost of attendance. This ranking speaks to the university’s ability to provide students with an affordable education without sacrificing academic rigor. The University of Scranton’s strong academic programs, combined with its commitment to helping students succeed both academically and financially, have solidified its position as a top regional university.
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), located in New York, earned the 8th spot in the “Best Regional Universities - North” category in the 2015 rankings. RIT is renowned for its emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, as well as its strong business and arts programs. The university is highly regarded for its rigorous academics and its focus on providing students with hands-on, real-world experience through internships, co-op programs, and research opportunities.
RIT’s reputation for academic excellence is reflected in its high peer assessment score, which is based on surveys conducted with presidents, provosts, and deans from other universities. The institution’s “Great Schools, Great Prices” ranking also highlights RIT’s ability to offer a high-quality education at a reasonable cost. RIT’s commitment to fostering innovation and providing students with a comprehensive educational experience has earned it recognition as one of the top regional universities in the North.
Bryant University, located in Smithfield, Rhode Island, moved up to 11th place in the 2015 U.S. News rankings of “Best Regional Universities - North,” marking its 10th consecutive year in the top 20 of its category. Bryant University is known for its strong business programs and its focus on providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the global marketplace. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including majors in business administration, accounting, marketing, and international business.
Bryant University’s continued success in the rankings is a reflection of its academic rigor, its strong faculty, and its commitment to student success. The university is particularly known for its emphasis on experiential learning, offering students opportunities for internships, co-ops, and study abroad programs that enhance their academic experience. Bryant University’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education, coupled with its strong focus on business and leadership, has earned it a place among the top regional universities in the North.
In conclusion, the U.S. News & World Report rankings for 2015 highlight several outstanding universities and colleges in the Northern United States, each of which has earned its place among the region’s top institutions. Villanova University, Providence College, Bentley University, the University of Scranton, Rochester Institute of Technology, and Bryant University all stand out for their academic excellence, commitment to student success, and their ability to provide students with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in their careers and beyond. These institutions continue to be recognized for their strong academic programs, dedication to fostering student engagement, and their ability to offer a high-quality education at an affordable price.
