University Rankings & Distinctions

We’re proud of our national & regional recognitions (see some of our top rankings below), still our true success is reflected in our graduates — compassionate, skilled professionals who carry their Franciscan spirit into their communities and workplaces.

2025-2026 Highlights

Colleges of Distinction:  For more than a decade, 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. 
 

Tailored honors:

  • Catholic College of Distinction
  • Program of Study Distinctions in Business, Education, Engineering, and Nursing
  • Best Colleges with Outstanding Career Services

 

Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2026: This prestigious ranking evaluates academic rigor, student engagement, and long-term career prospects. SFU ranked: 

Nationally, Saint Francis ranked No. 159 overall, with impressive placements across key categories:

  • No. 132 in Best Salaries — recognizing the strong career outcomes and earning potential of SFU graduates.
  • No. 107 in Social Mobility — highlighting the University’s commitment to helping students from all backgrounds achieve success.
  • No. 215 in Best Value — underscoring the quality and affordability of a Catholic Franciscan education.  

Within Pennsylvania, Saint Francis stood out among its peers, ranking: 

  • 4th in Social Mobility
  • 7th in Best Value
  • 13th in Best Salaries  

Niche 2026 College Rankings: SFU earned high marks from Niche for its overall campus life, with exceptional marks for safety and athletics. Among the highlights:

 

  • #5 (out of 23) Best Catholic College in PA
  • #6 (out of 100) Best College Athletics in PA
  • #13 (out of 104) Best Value College in PA
  • # 53 (602 ) Best College for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America

U.S. News & World Report 2026 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.

 

  • #55  Best Regional Universities in the North
  • #62 Best Value in the North

Washington Monthly 2025 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. 

 

  • #292 (out of 585) in the Master's Universities category
  • #303 (out of 369) for the Best Bang for the Buck in the Northeast

 

Latest Distinctions

Blog
Saint Francis University - Best Value, Salaries, Social Mobility

Saint Francis University Shines in Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges Rankings

Marie Young, University Communications & Marketing | 10/17/2025
Saint Francis University has been recognized among the nation’s top colleges in the Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings, earning distinction for student outcomes and social mobility that reflect its mission of transformative, values-based education.
Students Walking on Mall

U.S. News & World Report Names SFU to Best Regional and Best Value Lists

Marie Young, University Communications & Marketing | 09/23/2025
Saint Francis University continues to excel in U.S. News & World Report's 2026 rankings, securing the #55 position in the "Best Regional Universities"and #62 Best Value University in the North. This recognition places SFU among the top institutions in the region, acknowledging its dedication to high-quality education and student success.
2025 Best Colleges for Career Development Badge

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.
2025 First Destination Report Cover

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.
OT student receiving her pin from professor

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.
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