Jacksonville, AL — Jacksonville State University (Jax State) has continued its steady upward trajectory in the U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Regional Universities in the South rankings, climbing three places to No. 52, up from last year’s No. 55. The university also made a notable leap in Top Performers on Social Mobility, advancing to No. 73 after debuting in the Top 100 at No. 98 last year.
“These rankings reflect the momentum we’re building across the university,” said Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., President of Jacksonville State University. “More than just numbers, they signal continued progress for Jax State. The recognition in social mobility is significant, because it shows that we are making a real difference in the lives of students—helping them achieve degrees that change the trajectory of their families and communities.”
The Top Performers on Social Mobility category recognizes universities that successfully enroll and graduate large numbers of Pell Grant recipients—students from families earning under $50,000 annually. By improving outcomes for economically disadvantaged and first-generation college students, Jax State continues to demonstrate its commitment to access and opportunity.
Each year, U.S. News evaluates more than 1,500 colleges and universities nationwide, assessing them on factors such as graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, financial investment per student, and peer reputation. These metrics emphasize institutions’ ability to drive student success and long-term outcomes.
In addition to its regional ranking, Jax State also earned recognition as No. 26 among Top Public Universities in the South and No. 294 in the Nursing Program rankings, underscoring the strength and diversity of its academic programs.
“At Jax State, we see every student as a story waiting to be written,” said Dr. Christie Shelton, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “These rankings affirm that our faculty and staff are walking alongside students—many of whom are the first in their families to attend college—helping them not only graduate but thrive. It’s about opening doors, changing lives, and ensuring that every Gamecock has the chance to succeed.”
