Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University (Jax State) continues its impressive ascent in higher education recognition, achieving new heights in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Colleges Rankings. The university rose nine positions to claim the #55 spot among 135 Regional Universities in the South, securing its place as one of the premier institutions in the region. Further enhancing its reputation, Jax State is now tied at #25 among the 58 Top Public Universities in the South, reinforcing its status as a leader in public higher education.
“These rankings reflect the dedication and hard work of our entire university community, from faculty and staff to students and alumni,” said Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., President of Jacksonville State University. “Our rise in national recognition speaks to Jax State’s commitment to providing an exceptional education that is both accessible and impactful. We are proud of our continued progress and remain focused on empowering our students to succeed and make meaningful contributions to their communities.”
Commitment to Social Mobility and Academic Excellence
Jax State’s focus on fostering student success is exemplified by its #98 ranking in the Top Performers on Social Mobility, an indicator of its dedication to supporting students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and facilitating their pathways to achievement. The university also continues to make its mark in healthcare education, ranking #254 out of 686 programs in Nursing, showcasing its robust nursing programs that prepare skilled professionals to meet industry needs.
Recognition of Graduate and Online Programs
The university’s graduate and online programs have earned noteworthy rankings for their quality and flexibility. Jax State was placed #36 for Best Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Programs, underlining its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education to working professionals. Other highlights include:
- #117 in Best Nursing Schools: Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Tied at #214 in Best Public Affairs Programs
- Tied at #201 in Social Work
- Online master’s nursing programs ranked in the #141-186 range
“Our strong performance in the U.S. News rankings is a testament to the high quality of our academic programs and the efforts we’ve made to enhance student success,” stated Dr. Christie Shelton, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “At Jax State, we strive to create an environment where students are supported and challenged, ensuring they have the resources they need to excel both in the classroom and beyond.”
Consistent Growth and Future Aspirations
Jacksonville State University’s steady progress in the Best Regional Universities in the South and Best Public Universities in the South categories underscores a years-long commitment to continuous improvement. Since 2022, Jax State’s standing in the Best Regional Universities in the South has climbed from 77th to 55th, reflecting a 28.6% increase. In parallel, its ranking among Best Public Universities in the South has improved by 34.2%, moving from 38th to 25th over the same period.
This consistent growth points to Jax State’s enduring dedication to academic rigor, comprehensive student support, and overall institutional excellence.
For more detailed information on Jacksonville State University’s 2025 rankings, visit U.S. News & World Report or the university’s Rankings and Designations page.
