University Rankings & Distinctions


Accolades are wonderful to receive (below are a few of our favorites rankings), yet the biggest success that we celebrate is seeing our graduates become talented, caring, and competent professionals who make a difference in this world. 


Campus sunset

Saint Francis University Celebrates a Decade of Distinction

For the tenth year in a row, SFU has been named a College of Distinction, acknowledging their innovative learning opportunities and student-focused approach. This recognition speaks to the personalized experiences and hands-on learning that makes SFU stand out from the crowd. 

 

Keep reading  for a full list of distinctions recognized.


Recognized as One of America's Best Colleges 2025 by the Wall Street Journal and College Pulse

 

This prestigious ranking evaluates academic rigor, student engagement, and long-term career prospects. SFU ranked: 

 

  • #217 (out of 500 institutions) in the overall rankings & #209 in social mobility. 

This placement is a reflection of the strong foundation SFU offers to students, and the real-world success they achieve after graduation. 

Recent Highlights


2025 Niche College Rankings. SFU earned high marks from Niche for its overall campus life, with exceptional marks for safety and athletics. Among the highlights:

 

  • #4 (out of 23) Best Catholic College in PA
  • #20 (out of 104) Best College in PA
  • #24 (out of 103) Best Value College in PA

U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Regional Universities. This recognition is based on strong academic performance, graduation rates, and student outcomes, reinforcing SFU's reputation for delivering a high-quality education that sets students up for success.

 

  • #30 among Best Regional Universities in the North

Washington Monthly 2024 College Guide. This guide highlights institutions making a real impact on students' lives and their communities. Recognized for both value and public service, SFU also ranked high in categories like social mobility, research, and community service. 

 

  • #69 (out of 604) in the Master's Universities category
  • #101 (out of 388) for the Best Bang for the Buck in the Northeast

 

Reaching New Heights


Saint Francis University's Aviation Maintenance Technician Program Achieves FAA Certification. Read More

 

  • This milestone makes the AMT program the only FAA Part 147 aviation maintenance technician school in Cambria County and the only offering of its kind in the surrounding counties.

 

 

Latest Distinctions

Blog

Junior Nursing Student Andrew Tinker Receives National Student DAISY Award

Mitchell Jubas | 12/03/2024
On November 15, 2024, Andrew Tinker, a junior Saint Francis University BSN student, was recognized with the prestigious Student DAISY Award during a surprise ceremony at UPMC Altoona. This national honor celebrates nursing students who demonstrate extraordinary compassion, care, and commitment to their patients and their families. Andrew’s exceptional contribution to patient care was highlighted by his nominator, a UPMC registered nurse, who witnessed his remarkable dedication firsthand.

12 SFU soccer players named to 2024 CSC Academic All-District Team

SFU Athletics | 11/20/2024
Saint Francis University proudly announces that 12 RedFlash Soccer players have been named to the 2024 College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team. College Sports Communicators recognizes the nation's top student-athletes for their combined performances on the field and in the classroom.

Saint Francis University Team Sweeps Second Place in Global CEO Business Pitch for EcoPrint

Shields School of Business | 11/19/2024
Three Saint Francis University entrepreneurs took their non-profit company EcoPrint all the way to second place in the 41st annual Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO) Global Conference and Pitch Fest on November 2, 2024, in Tampa, Fla. Biology-Pre-med students Caleb DeBass (Forest, VA), Carson Elbin (Needmore, PA), and Nathan Poplos (Magnolia, DE) pitched their business EcoPrint.

Saint Francis University Earns Most Improved Voting Rate

Mitchell Jubas | 10/07/2024
The 2022 NSLVE report recognized Saint Francis University for its strong voter engagement, earning the Most Improved Voting Rate in the Pennsylvania Campus Voting Challenge, the Presidential Commitment Seal, and a Silver Seal from the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge. SFU also celebrated Constitution Day and National Voter Registration Day, launching a voter registration drive to promote civic participation.

Saint Francis University Earns High Marks in 2025 Niche College Rankings

Erin McCloskey | 10/03/2024
Saint Francis University has earned impressive rankings in the 2025 Niche College Rankings, including #37 Best Catholic Colleges in America and #63 Safest College Campus in America. These accomplishments reflect SFU's commitment to academic excellence, student satisfaction, and a safe, supportive environment rooted in Catholic, Franciscan values.

Saint Francis University Recognized in Washington Monthly 2024 College Guide for Value and Impact

University Communications & Marketing | 09/18/2024
Saint Francis University has been recognized for its exceptional value and educational impact in the Washington Monthly 2024 College Guide. The university ranked #69 out of 604 in the Master’s Universities category and earned the #101 spot out of 388 for the Best Bang for the Buck in the Northeast , underscoring its commitment to providing students with a high-quality education that is both affordable and impactful. The Washington Monthly rankings are distinctive in their focus on what colleges do for their students, the country, and the common good. These rankings evaluate institutions based