University Rankings & Distinctions


Accolades are wonderful to receive (below are a few of our favorites rankings), yet the biggest success that we celebrate is seeing our graduates become talented, caring, and competent professionals who make a difference in this world. 


Campus sunset

Saint Francis University Celebrates a Decade of Distinction

For the tenth year in a row, SFU has been named a College of Distinction, acknowledging their innovative learning opportunities and student-focused approach. This recognition speaks to the personalized experiences and hands-on learning that makes SFU stand out from the crowd. 

 

Keep reading  for a full list of distinctions recognized.


Recognized as One of America's Best Colleges 2025 by the Wall Street Journal and College Pulse

 

This prestigious ranking evaluates academic rigor, student engagement, and long-term career prospects. SFU ranked: 

 

  • #217 (out of 500 institutions) in the overall rankings & #209 in social mobility. 

This placement is a reflection of the strong foundation SFU offers to students, and the real-world success they achieve after graduation. 

Recent Highlights


2025 Niche College Rankings. SFU earned high marks from Niche for its overall campus life, with exceptional marks for safety and athletics. Among the highlights:

 

  • #4 (out of 23) Best Catholic College in PA
  • #20 (out of 104) Best College in PA
  • #24 (out of 103) Best Value College in PA

U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Regional Universities. This recognition is based on strong academic performance, graduation rates, and student outcomes, reinforcing SFU's reputation for delivering a high-quality education that sets students up for success.

 

  • #30 among Best Regional Universities in the North

Washington Monthly 2024 College Guide. This guide highlights institutions making a real impact on students' lives and their communities. Recognized for both value and public service, SFU also ranked high in categories like social mobility, research, and community service. 

 

  • #69 (out of 604) in the Master's Universities category
  • #101 (out of 388) for the Best Bang for the Buck in the Northeast

 

Reaching New Heights


Saint Francis University's Aviation Maintenance Technician Program Achieves FAA Certification. Read More

 

  • This milestone makes the AMT program the only FAA Part 147 aviation maintenance technician school in Cambria County and the only offering of its kind in the surrounding counties.

 

 

Latest Distinctions

Blog

SFU one of 2025 Best Colleges with Outstanding Career Services

University Communications & Marketing | 07/18/2025
Saint Francis University has once again been recognized by Colleges of Distinction, this time earning the coveted Career Development College of Distinction badge for 2025–2026. This honor highlights SFU’s exceptional commitment to guiding students through each step of their career journey—equipping them with the tools, connections, and real-world experience needed to succeed beyond graduation.

Career Success after Graduation: Class of 2024 Survey Results

University Communications & Marketing | 07/18/2025
Each year, Saint Francis University’s First Destination Report shares the results of our annual survey of recent graduates, offering an inside look at where our alumni go next and how their SFU experience shapes their future.

2025 OT Pinning Ceremony Held

Marie Young, University Communications Manager | 05/29/2025
With warmth, reverence, and a celebration of professional growth, Saint Francis University held its annual Occupational Therapy Pinning Ceremony on May 9, 2025, honoring 25 graduating students as they transition from academic study to clinical practice.

SFU Shines in NEC Winter Academic Honor Roll

SFU Athletics | 05/21/2025
Saint Francis University continues to uphold a proud tradition of academic excellence among its student-athletes, with 104 Red Flash athletes named to the Northeast Conference (NEC) Winter Academic Honor Roll.

Scenes from Commencement 2025

Marie Young, University Communications & Marketing | 05/13/2025
The Saint Francis University community gathered this weekend to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Class of 2025 during three distinct ceremonies. Enjoy the memories from our photo and video archives!

Inaugural Cohort of Executive Doctorate Completes Integrated Dissertation Experience

Marie Young, University Communications & Marketing | 05/06/2025
At Saint Francis University, the path to a doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership and Innovation is not just about earning a credential—it’s about applying knowledge with purpose. The Class of 2025, our inaugural Francis 2022 Cohort of Ed.D. graduates, exemplifies this mission through their exceptional research, made possible by the program’s integrated dissertation model.

Six stand-out educators receive Dr. John Powers Outstanding Educator Award

University Communications & Marketing | 04/30/2025
Saint Francis University presents the Dr. John Powers Outstanding Educator Award to a deserving elementary or secondary teacher or administrator each spring. This year, the university presented the award to six stand-out educators during the Saint Francis University President's Awards Convocation on April 29, 2025.