Flagler College Achieves Historic No. 1 Rankings in U.S. News 2027 College Listings
Flagler College Achieves Historic Rankings
For the first time in its illustrious history, Flagler College has earned two prestigious No. 1 rankings in U.S. News & World Report's 2027 Best Colleges rankings. This achievement marks an extraordinary milestone for the institution, solidifying its place as a leading educational establishment in the South.
A Remarkable Achievement
On September 22, 2026, it was announced that Flagler College secured the No. 1 position among Regional Colleges in the South, as well as the No. 1 spot among Top Private Regional Colleges in the region. This is particularly noteworthy as it combines both recognition for public and private institutions, illustrating Flagler's comprehensive educational offerings.
Additionally, Flagler placed 16th in the Best Value Regional Colleges in the South category and was recognized as a Top Performer in Social Mobility, further demonstrating its commitment to accessible education. The undergraduate psychology program also received national acknowledgment, underscoring the quality of the academic programs offered.
Continuous Growth and Commitment to Excellence
Flagler College's rise in the rankings reflects ongoing efforts towards academic excellence, student success, and overall institutional health. The college's ability to climb the ranks is attributed to several key factors, including the quality of its faculty, the graduation rates, and the post-graduate earnings of its students.
Flagler College President John Delaney emphasized the importance of this recognition, stating, "For a college with more than five decades of educating students in the heart of historic St. Augustine, this first No. 1 ranking is both a milestone and a reflection of the people and work behind it." He highlighted that the recognition reflects the quality of education students receive, the relationships formed with faculty, and the vast opportunities available to them during and after their time at college.
Evaluating Educational Choices
For prospective students and their families, U.S. News rankings serve as a valuable tool during the college selection process. By evaluating nearly 1,700 higher education institutions using a range of criteria, including peer assessment and graduation rates, students can make informed decisions about where to invest in their education.
This recognition is not just a reflection of rankings, but rather an embodiment of the supportive learning environment Flagler provides. With a low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, students experience personal attention that fosters meaningful mentorship, collaboration on research projects, and community-based learning opportunities.
Looking Forward
The accomplishments recognized in the 2027 U.S. News rankings signify the exciting momentum at Flagler College. Recently, Flagler was also highlighted in The Princeton Review's 2027 Best Colleges guide, receiving high marks in areas such as professor accessibility and overall quality of life.
As Flagler College continues to shape the educational landscape in the South, students can expect a transformative learning experience that prepares them for future academic and career pursuits. This latest success not only elevates the college’s profile but also demonstrates its unwavering dedication to student development, success, and social mobility.