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
Celebratory Commencement Cap Toss

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!
Francis 2022 Cohort Integrated Research Blog Image

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.
2025 Powers Awards recipients

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.
Mens Basketball, NEC Champions 24-25

SFU MBB Claim NEC Championship 2025 Title

SFU Athletics | 03/12/2025
The Saint Francis University Men's Basketball won their first Northeast Conference (NEC) Championship since 1991 with a 46-43 victory over the no. 1 seeded CCSU Blue Devils.
Top 100 people PA Business Central 2025

SFU President Named Among 2025 Top 100 People by Pennsylvania Business Central

Marie Young, University Communications & Marketing | 02/20/2025
Saint Francis University President Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., has been recognized as one of Pennsylvania Business Central’s “Top 100 People” for 2025. The annual list recognizes regional leaders “who dream big, expand opportunities, and excel.”
OT Accreditation certificate

Celebrating Our 10-Year Accreditation: A Milestone of Excellence

Dr. Andrew Miller OTR/L, CHT, CFE, ATC/L | 01/24/2025
The Saint Francis University Master of Occupational Therapy program has received a 10-year accreditation status, the highest level of recognition a program can achieve. This prestigious honor reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in education and the exceptional opportunities we provide to our students.
Andrew Tinker accepts DAISY Award

Junior Nursing Student Andrew Tinker Receives National Student DAISY Award

Mitchell Jubas | 12/03/2024
On November 15, 2024, Andrew Tinker, a junior Saint Francis University BSN student, was recognized with the prestigious Student DAISY Award during a surprise ceremony at UPMC Altoona. This national honor celebrates nursing students who demonstrate extraordinary compassion, care, and commitment to their patients and their families. Andrew’s exceptional contribution to patient care was highlighted by his nominator, a UPMC registered nurse, who witnessed his remarkable dedication firsthand.
Academic All District team logo

12 SFU soccer players named to 2024 CSC Academic All-District Team

SFU Athletics | 11/20/2024
Saint Francis University proudly announces that 12 RedFlash Soccer players have been named to the 2024 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team. College Sports Communicators recognizes the nation's top student-athletes for their combined performances on the field and in the classroom.
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