Radford University earns top 20 ranking in U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges
Radford, VA (09/24/2026) — Radford University has earned a place among the top 20 regional universities in the South in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, along with high marks for its value, support for veterans and standing among public universities.
In the 2027 rankings, Radford is ranked No. 18 among Regional Universities in the South and No. 8 among Top Public Schools in the South.
The university also earned several other notable distinctions, including:
- No. 7 in Best Colleges for Veterans among Regional Universities in the South
- No. 12 in Best Value Schools for In-State Students among Regional Universities in the South
- No. 23 in Best Value Schools among Regional Universities in the South
The rankings reflect Radford's continued focus on providing students with an accessible, high-quality education that prepares them for success beyond graduation.
"These rankings reflect Radford University's commitment to serving the Commonwealth and providing students with an accessible, high-quality education," President Bret Danilowicz said. "We are proud to be recognized for the value of a Radford education and for the support we provide veterans, military-connected students and their families. Our focus remains on creating opportunities for students while fulfilling our responsibility as a public university to the people and communities of Virginia."
Radford also received national recognition for several undergraduate academic programs.
The latest recognition comes as Radford continues to see momentum in enrollment, student retention and academic programs. Fall 2026 enrollment reached 7,917 students, marking continued enrollment growth, while the university also recently reported its highest freshman-to-sophomore retention rate on record.
Radford's College of Nursing has also reached its largest total enrollment in university history as the university continues expanding pathways for students interested in careers in healthcare.
U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges rankings evaluate colleges and universities using measures related to student outcomes, graduation and retention, faculty resources, social mobility and other indicators of academic quality.
The complete rankings are available through U.S. News & World Report.
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