Florida Polytechnic University Maintains Top Ranking as No. 1 Public College in the South for Fifth Consecutive Year

Florida Polytechnic University Retains Top Spot in South



Florida Polytechnic University has once again been recognized as the No. 1 public college in the South by U.S. News and World Report, marking its fifth consecutive year at the top. This achievement is a clear indicator of the university's dedication to academic excellence and innovation in STEM education, particularly as it enters its 11th year of operation.

In addition to its top ranking, Florida Poly also made headlines by being named the No. 3 best value public school in the South. This accolade considers both the academic performance and affordability of the institution, allowing students to gain a high-quality education without the burden of excessive student debt.

"Florida Poly's continued national recognition as the top public college in the South and as one of the best values in higher education is both exciting and humbling," stated Dr. Devin Stephenson, president of Florida Polytechnic University. He attributes this success to a well-defined vision aimed at delivering exceptional educational experiences while empowering students to excel in STEM careers.

U.S. News and World Report's 2026 rankings evaluated over 1,700 universities, applying up to 17 factors to gauge academic quality and student outcomes. Florida Poly excelled in several categories, including a spot among the top 30 public engineering programs nationally for schools without Ph.D. offerings.

The rankings released by U.S. News for Florida Poly are as follows:
  • - 1st: Public College in the South (5th year in a row)
  • - 2nd: College in the South among both public and private institutions (3rd year in a row)
  • - 3rd: Best Value Public School in the South (recognizing affordability combined with academic performance)
  • - Top 30: Public Engineering Program without a Ph.D. nationally (5th year in a row)

Dr. Brad Thiessen, provost and vice president of academic affairs, noted that these impressive rankings reflect the dedication of the faculty, staff, and the determination of the students. He emphasized how Florida Polytechnic University is committed to an innovative curriculum and a supportive learning environment, which contribute significantly to the university's reputation.

The university's growth is evident through its recent enrollment statistics, which show a record-breaking total of 1,931 students this fall. This influx of students not only demonstrates the appeal of Florida Poly's programs but also the increasing demand for STEM education throughout the region.

Upcoming expansions are set to enhance the university's capacity further. Later this fall, Florida Poly will celebrate the grand opening of the Gary C. Wendt Engineering Center. This 40,000-square-foot facility aims to boost engineering lab capabilities and provide students with hands-on experience, further strengthening their education in essential STEM fields.

As Florida Polytechnic University continues to build on its legacy, the institution remains committed to shaping the next generation of innovators and leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

In summary, Florida Polytechnic University’s consistent top ranking as the No. 1 public college in the South is a testament to its commitment to academic excellence, affordability, and innovation—qualities that resonate with students seeking a quality education in STEM disciplines.

Topics Other)

【About Using Articles】

You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.

【About Links】

Links are free to use.