Howard University Hits Highest Ranking in U.S. News & World Report
News related to:Howard University · 2 min read
WASHINGTON, DC, Sept. 22, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Howard University has achieved its highest ranking in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges” rankings, rising 15 positions to No. 73 among National Universities. This marks a significant rise from the University’s previous high of No. 80 in 2021 and represents a notable improvement from its No. 88 ranking last year.
The advancement in rankings is attributed to measurable gains in student success, academic strength, and institutional impact. Howard’s six-year graduation rate has increased from 70% to 74%, while the graduation rate for Pell Grant recipients has risen from 66% to 70%. The graduation rate for non-Pell Grant recipients has increased from 73% to 77%. Howard continues to outperform its predicted graduation rate.
The University also ranked No. 42 among Top Private Colleges and continues to hold the No. 2 ranking among the nation’s historically Black colleges and universities. Howard rose six positions to No. 11 among Top Performers on Social Mobility, reflecting the University’s continued commitment to expanding access and creating pathways of opportunity for students.
Howard debuted at No. 34 among the nation’s Most Innovative Schools and rose 13 positions to No. 118 among Best Colleges for Veterans. Several undergraduate programs also advanced in the 2027 rankings: - Undergraduate Teaching: No. 25 nationally - Undergraduate Business: No. 83, up five positions - Economics: No. 110, up 11 positions - Engineering: No. 102 among undergraduate programs, up 10 positions - Bachelor of Science in Nursing: No. 94, appearing in the ranking for the first time
The rankings also reflect Howard’s continued investment in faculty excellence and academic capacity. A greater proportion of the University’s full-time faculty now hold doctoral or other terminal degrees, while expanded 12-month appointments support year-round instruction, research, and institutional leadership.
Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private research university comprising 14 schools and colleges. Students pursue studies in more than 140 areas leading to undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. Howard is committed to excellence in Truth and Service and has produced distinguished alumni across fields including medicine, law, business, science, education, government, the arts, and public service.