T
he University of Charleston (UC) has been named one of the best National Universities in the country according to U.S. News & World Report. UC was also recognized for its efforts to improve social mobility among students in the publication’s spring 2025 rankings.
“We are proud to be recognized as one of the top schools in the U.S.,” UC President Marty Roth said. “It lets us know that we are successfully fulfilling our mission while providing exceptional opportunities for all students. Our focus is on making higher education more accessible, affordable, and career-focused, and this ranking tells us we are on the right track.”
In its 40th annual Best Colleges edition, U.S. News reviewed more than 1,500 four-year colleges and universities. Rankings were based on classroom resources, graduation rates, student outcomes, and return on investment, including manageable debt and competitive starting salaries. The publication also factored in student priorities such as academic reputation and overall value.
UC was also featured in the Social Mobility rankings, which highlight institutions that excel at enrolling and graduating large numbers of students who receive Pell Grants, typically awarded to those from families earning less than $50,000 annually.
More information about the rankings and methodology can be found here.
