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Top of the Charts

We have a history of blazing trails—and it shows in our 2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings. ŷַ was recognized in the Top 20 out of nearly 160 Regional Midwest Universities and named #1 in the state in several subcategories.

#1 Performer on Social Mobility in Illinois

Rather than perpetuating educational attainment gaps in our society, we have invested for years in the kinds of experiences and wraparound support that ensure all students have the same opportunity to graduate with purpose, earning us recognition as the #1 top performer in social mobility in Illinois and #3 in the Midwest. We are committed to helping students from underserved backgrounds not only find their calling—but a career path. Within a year of graduation, 93% of ŷַ graduates are either employed or attending graduate school.

 

#1 in Undergraduate Teaching in Illinois

This designation recognizes the ŷַ faculty’s unusually strong commitment to high quality teaching, not just research and publishing, at the undergraduate level. Our professors aren’t hiding behind lecterns. They’re here to guide you, to support you, to connect you to amazing internship and career opportunities and cheer you on—every step of the way. An average class size of just 16 students means your ideas will be heard and they will know and care about you.

#1 Best Value in the Midwest

We’re proud to be No. 1 in the Midwest on the publication’s “Best Value Schools” list, a category that closely examines academic quality and average net cost of attendance. We believe finances shouldn’t stand in the way of helping you find your purpose. Through scholarships and other financial aid, we’ll work with you and your family to make the cost of a high-impact private school education manageable.

 

More Than Just Numbers

Behind each of our rankings is a story—of students and professors partnering on discoveries. Of graduates innovating in careers of critical need. Of a community building a more just and humane world. Whether you’re the first in your family to go to college, or the first to make a big discovery or break a barrier in your chosen field, we’ll be there to empower you. Join us.