WC Wisconsin News

Viterbo University has improved its position in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, advancing in several categories that assess academic quality, affordability, and student outcomes.

The university moved up to No. 61 among Regional Universities Midwest, compared to No. 73 last year. It also climbed to No. 40 in the Best Value Schools category and was listed as a Top Performer on Social Mobility at No. 136.

“We are particularly proud of our recognition as a Best Value school and a Top Performer on Social Mobility,” said Viterbo University President Rick Trietley. “These rankings are a reflection of the excellence of our faculty and the dedication of our staff, who keep Viterbo a high-quality, mission-driven university where students thrive and go on to lead lives of meaning and impact. We are equally proud to be recognized for both value and access, ensuring that a transformative Franciscan education remains within reach for students and families.”

In addition to overall institutional gains, several academic programs at Viterbo University saw improvements in national rankings this year. The undergraduate engineering program is now ranked No. 226, up from the previous range of No. 236–286. The nursing program advanced to No. 294 from No. 392 last year, while the university’s standing among Best Colleges for Veterans rose to No. 44 from No. 46.

The U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings are published annually and measure universities using factors such as academic performance, cost-effectiveness, and rates of student achievement.