Hardin-Simmons University Earns Recognition in U.S. News & World Report 2027 Best Colleges Rankings

Hardin-Simmons University has again been recognized among the nation’s leading institutions in the 2027 Best Colleges rankings published by U.S. News & World Report, earning high marks in multiple categories and qualifying for two U.S. News ranking badges.

Among its strongest showings, HSU was ranked:

• #38 in Regional Universities West
• #16 in Top Private Schools
• #29 in Best Value Schools
• #25 in Best Colleges for Veterans

These rankings placed HSU among the institutions eligible to display official U.S. News Best Colleges badges, a distinction reserved for top-performing colleges and universities.

The annual Best Colleges rankings are among the most widely recognized measures of higher education quality in the United States. According to U.S. News, the rankings evaluate institutions using a variety of indicators, including graduation rates, student retention, graduate outcomes, academic resources, faculty credentials, financial resources, and peer assessments. For the 2027 rankings, U.S. News evaluated more than 1,700 colleges and universities using up to 17 measures of academic quality and student success.

“We are honored to be recognized by U.S. News & World Report for the value and quality of the education students receive at Hardin-Simmons University,” said Dr. Eric Bruntmyer, president of HSU. “These rankings reflect the dedication of our faculty and staff, the achievements of our students, and our commitment to providing a Christ-centered education that prepares graduates to lead and serve in their professions and communities.”

Bruntmyer said the recognition underscores HSU’s ongoing emphasis on student success and academic excellence.

“At Hardin-Simmons, we strive to create an environment where students are known, challenged, and supported,” Bruntmyer said. “Being recognized among the top private and regional universities in the West affirms the impact of that mission and encourages us to continue investing in the student experience.”

U.S. News groups institutions into categories based on their academic offerings and mission, then compares schools against their peers. Regional Universities, such as HSU, are evaluated within geographic regions and are recognized for offering a broad range of undergraduate and master’s programs while maintaining a strong focus on teaching and student outcomes.

The rankings are intended to help prospective students and families compare institutions and identify colleges that best align with their educational goals. U.S. News notes that rankings should be considered alongside other factors such as academic programs, campus culture, location, and personal fit.

The 2027 rankings continue a tradition of national recognition for Hardin-Simmons University, highlighting the university’s commitment to academic excellence, student achievement, and its mission of providing an exceptional Christian liberal arts education.