Freed-Hardeman University Achieves High Ranking in U.S. News Best Values for 2026
Freed-Hardeman University (FHU), located in Henderson, Tennessee, has made headlines by ascending to the second position in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Value Regional Universities in the South rankings. This achievement marks a rise from last year’s third-place, demonstrating the university’s commitment to providing quality education at an affordable price. FHU is distinctive as the only institution affiliated with the churches of Christ represented in this prestigious ranking.
The recognition from U.S. News not only highlights FHU's quality of education but also its affordability, which is evaluated through a combination of academic excellence and the net cost of attendance for out-of-state students receiving average need-based financial aid. The assessment underscores the institution’s ability to deliver both a superior educational experience and accessible financial options significantly contributing to its appeal.
The growth of FHU has been exceptional, with enrollment numbers in Fall 2025 reaching a record high of 2,349 students, representing an increase from previous years. Furthermore, the university has recorded significant milestones in dual enrollment and international student representation. Notably, there has been a 14% rise in graduate enrollment—the highest increase witnessed in four years. These statistics reflect the robustness of the university’s Christ-centered environment and the effectiveness of its educational offerings, as showcased by an impressive 87% fall-to-fall retention rate.
David R. Shannon, the president of FHU, expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment from U.S. News, remarking, "These rankings reflect the remarkable commitment of our faculty, staff, administration, and board who offer Christian education that is both excellent and affordable, as well as our outstanding students who study under them."
The university's reputation for maintaining high academic quality while ensuring reasonable costs for students highlights its goal to make higher education more accessible without compromising standards. Junior Birdie Green, president of the FHU Student Government Association, echoes this sentiment, stating, "As a student here, I have seen firsthand just how much goes into our quality education. Going to a Christian school doesn't mean compromising on academics or cost when it comes to FHU!"
U.S. News releases over 80 rankings annually, aimed at guiding prospective students in identifying colleges and universities that align with their academic, personal, and financial aspirations. The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students harness their God-given talents for His glory by offering an education that effectively combines Christian faith, academic scholarship, and service to others.
FHU provides a variety of programs, including associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees at its Henderson and Memphis locations. The university continues to drive its mission to empower students and shape future leaders who uphold their core values in both their personal and professional lives. For more information about Freed-Hardeman University, you can visit their official website at fhu.edu.
The recognition from U.S. News not only highlights FHU's quality of education but also its affordability, which is evaluated through a combination of academic excellence and the net cost of attendance for out-of-state students receiving average need-based financial aid. The assessment underscores the institution’s ability to deliver both a superior educational experience and accessible financial options significantly contributing to its appeal.
The growth of FHU has been exceptional, with enrollment numbers in Fall 2025 reaching a record high of 2,349 students, representing an increase from previous years. Furthermore, the university has recorded significant milestones in dual enrollment and international student representation. Notably, there has been a 14% rise in graduate enrollment—the highest increase witnessed in four years. These statistics reflect the robustness of the university’s Christ-centered environment and the effectiveness of its educational offerings, as showcased by an impressive 87% fall-to-fall retention rate.
David R. Shannon, the president of FHU, expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment from U.S. News, remarking, "These rankings reflect the remarkable commitment of our faculty, staff, administration, and board who offer Christian education that is both excellent and affordable, as well as our outstanding students who study under them."
The university's reputation for maintaining high academic quality while ensuring reasonable costs for students highlights its goal to make higher education more accessible without compromising standards. Junior Birdie Green, president of the FHU Student Government Association, echoes this sentiment, stating, "As a student here, I have seen firsthand just how much goes into our quality education. Going to a Christian school doesn't mean compromising on academics or cost when it comes to FHU!"
U.S. News releases over 80 rankings annually, aimed at guiding prospective students in identifying colleges and universities that align with their academic, personal, and financial aspirations. The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students harness their God-given talents for His glory by offering an education that effectively combines Christian faith, academic scholarship, and service to others.
FHU provides a variety of programs, including associate, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees at its Henderson and Memphis locations. The university continues to drive its mission to empower students and shape future leaders who uphold their core values in both their personal and professional lives. For more information about Freed-Hardeman University, you can visit their official website at fhu.edu.
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