Howard University Achieves Highest U.S. News & World Report Ranking in University History
University rises 15 positions to No. 73 among National Universities, reaches No. 11 for social mobility and earns inaugural recognition among nation’s Most Innovative Schools
WASHINGTON, DC, Sept. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Howard University announced today that the University has achieved its highest overall ranking in University history in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” rankings, rising 15 positions to No. 73 among National Universities.
The historic ranking surpasses Howard’s previous high of No. 80 in 2021 and represents a significant rise from No. 88 last year. Howard also ranked No. 42 among Top Private Colleges and continues to hold the No. 2 ranking among the nation’s historically Black colleges and universities.
The University’s advancement reflects measurable gains in student success, academic strength and institutional impact. Howard’s six-year graduation rate increased from 70% to 74%, while the graduation rate for Pell Grant recipients rose from 66% to 70%. The graduation rate for non-Pell Grant recipients increased from 73% to 77%. Howard also continues to outperform its predicted graduation rate.
“While no ranking can fully capture Howard University’s impact, this historic advancement is an important reflection of the strength and trajectory of our institution,” said Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA, interim president and president emeritus of Howard University. “Our legacy established the foundation for Howard’s national leadership. Our continued pursuit of excellence strengthens our academic and research enterprise, and the opportunities we create empower our students and graduates to transform their lives, their communities and society. This recognition reflects the collective work of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, trustees and partners—and the increasingly consequential impact of Howard University as a national research institution.”
Advancing Opportunity and Student Success
Howard rose six positions to No. 11 among Top Performers on Social Mobility, reflecting the University’s continued commitment to expanding access and creating pathways of opportunity for students.
The University also debuted at No. 34 among the nation’s Most Innovative Schools and rose 13 positions to No. 118 among Best Colleges for Veterans.
Several undergraduate programs advanced in the 2027 rankings:
- Undergraduate Teaching: No. 25 nationally
- Undergraduate Business: No. 83, up five positions
- Economics: No. 110, up 11 positions
- Engineering: No. 102 among undergraduate programs, up 10 positions
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing: No. 94, appearing in the ranking for the first time
The rankings also reflect Howard’s continued investment in faculty excellence and academic capacity. A greater proportion of the University’s full-time faculty now hold doctoral or other terminal degrees, while expanded 12-month appointments support year-round instruction, research and institutional leadership.
Legacy. Excellence. Opportunity.
Howard’s rise in the rankings comes as the University continues to strengthen its position as a national research institution with a distinctive mission and expanding impact across higher education and society.
The University views rankings as one measure of institutional progress while remaining focused on the academic experience, research and scholarship, student outcomes, service and the long-term impact of its graduates.
“Howard’s national standing is not defined by a single ranking,” Frederick added. “It is demonstrated through the excellence of our academic enterprise, the impact of our research and scholarship, the achievements of our students and alumni, and our enduring commitment to Truth and Service. As we celebrate this milestone, we must continue building on this momentum—strengthening student outcomes, advancing our academic and research priorities, and ensuring that every member of our community has the opportunity to thrive.”
The University recognizes the work of its Institutional Research, Finance and Financial Aid teams in preparing the data and information that inform the rankings, as well as the contributions of faculty, staff, students, alumni, trustees and partners whose work continues to advance Howard’s mission.
About Howard University
Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private research university comprising 14 schools and colleges. Students pursue studies in more than 140 areas leading to undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. Howard is committed to excellence in Truth and Service and has produced distinguished alumni across fields including medicine, law, business, science, education, government, the arts and public service. For more information about Howard University, visit the University’s website.
CONTACT: Carol Wilkerson Howard University 202-288-7071 [email protected]
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