UJ Earns Recognition in Five U.S. News Rankings

JAMESTOWN, N.D. – The University of Jamestown has earned recognition across five categories in the 2026-2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, including recognition among regional universities, private schools, undergraduate engineering programs, graduate health schools, and top performers on social mobility.

U.S. News recognized the University of Jamestown in the following categories:

• 130 among Regional Universities Midwest
• 93 among Top Private Schools in the Midwest
• 281-306 among National Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs at institutions where a doctorate in engineering is not offered
• 161 among Best Physical Therapy Programs, a grad school ranking in Best Health Schools
• 161 among Top Performers on Social Mobility in the Regional Universities Midwest category

“Recognition like this is meaningful because it reflects a university that continues to grow while staying grounded in who we are,” said University of Jamestown President Dr. Polly Peterson. “Over the past several years, we have expanded our academic programs, extended our presence beyond Jamestown and created new pathways for students from undergraduate education through doctoral study. That progress has been intentional. We are building for the future while preserving the personal relationships, strong academic foundation and commitment to developing the whole person that have defined a UJ education for generations.”

Founded in Jamestown in 1883, UJ has evolved from its historic undergraduate campus into a university serving students at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels. Today, the University offers programs in Jamestown and Fargo, North Dakota; Phoenix, Arizona; and online, with academic offerings spanning the liberal arts, business, healthcare, engineering, clinical research and more.

Engineering program earns continued national recognition

Engineering is one area where UJ’s continued academic growth has extended beyond regional categories, gaining national recognition.

UJ offers undergraduate degrees in mechanical engineering and civil engineering. The programs combine a strong technical education with UJ’s liberal arts foundation and emphasize hands-on learning, problem-solving, communication and the application of engineering principles to real-world challenges.

“Our engineering programs are a strong example of how UJ continues to evolve in response to the needs of students, employers and the communities we serve,” said Dr. Paul Olson, Executive Vice President and Provost. “We want our graduates to leave UJ with exceptional preparation in their field, but also with the ability to think critically, communicate effectively and lead with integrity. That combination is central to the education we provide across the University.”

U.S. News & World Report publishes its Best Colleges rankings annually using a range of indicators related to academic quality and student outcomes. Rankings and methodologies vary by category.

About University of Jamestown

University of Jamestown is consistently ranked as a top regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1883 as Jamestown College, UJ is a private, Christian career-oriented liberal arts University that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. At the bachelor’s level, students can pursue degrees in the arts, sciences, and nursing. The university also grants master’s degrees and doctoral degrees in healthcare, leadership, and business. Additionally, UJ provides doctoral programs in clinical research, leadership, and physical therapy. To expand access to its high-quality education, University of Jamestown launched UJ Accelerated, its online division, which delivers intensive upskilling opportunities to learners across diverse settings. For more information about academic offerings, campus life, and online programs, please visit UJ.edu.