Seton Hall was ranked no. 156 in the U.S News & World Report (UNWR)’s Best National University rankings, rising two spots from its 2026 ranking of no. 158, reflecting a period of success and strength that aligns with the university’s mission to deliver valuable education that changes students into leaders.
The university was also recognized by the Carnegie Foundation and the American Council on Education (ACE) as an R2 “high research activity” institution because of its commitment to providing students with quality research and experimental learning opportunities.
Seton Hall’s National Rankings
Several of the university’s undergraduate academic programs were ranked as top programs nationally. SHU ranked no. 185 nationally for undergraduate economics, no. 129 for undergraduate psychology, no. 116 for undergraduate business and no. 115 for undergraduate nursing.
SHU ranked no. 56 nationally in the new “Earnings by Major” category, which uses federal College Scorecard data to compare the earnings of graduates in the same fields of study across national universities.
Among Catholic National Universities, SHU ranked no. 21, placing the university among the top 25 Catholic institutions in the country.
In New Jersey, SHU receives high rankings
For the New Jersey National Universities category, SHU remained tied at no. 156 with Montclair State University (MSU). Ranked ahead of the university are six institutions, which are all among the nation’s top 100.
As SHU receives these rankings, the university’s strategic plan, “Inspiring Great Minds to Greater Purpose,” continues to be implemented. The plan aims to provide students with transformational learning experiences and career-building opportunities that grow students into leaders.
In a press release, Erik Lillquist, interim provost, chief administrative officer and executive vice president, said these rankings highlight SHU’s impactful programs, research opportunities and innovation.
“This recognition reflects the sustained, continuous work taking place throughout Seton Hall to strengthen academic quality and advance student success,” Lillquist said. “As we continue implementing Inspiring Great Minds to Greater Purpose, we remain focused on creating a transformational academic experience that prepares our students to lead, serve and make meaningful contributions in their professions and communities.”
Reflecting Lillquist’s sentiment, SHU President Msgr. Joseph R. Reilly said the university’s latest recognitions reflect its dedication to providing strong academic support while remaining true to its Catholic mission.
“We are gratified to receive this external recognition from U.S. News,” Reilly said. “This and other recent confirmations of the University’s excellence are a testament to the vibrancy of our Catholic mission, which is brought to life each day by dedicated faculty, clergy, staff and students.”
A Year of Strength and Success
Alongside the UNWR rankings, this year SHU also received national recognition in the Princeton Review’s 2027 rankings.
SHU earned the no. 1 ranking for Best College Radio Station, with WSOU 89.5 FM recognized again as an impactful experiential learning opportunity for students. The university also ranked no. 5 nationally for Best Student Support and Counseling Services.
Bringing home rankings from UNWR and the Princeton Review, SHU continues to deliver strong academic experiences, engagement and leadership, reinforcing its position among national institutions.
Michela DiLorenzo is the head editor of the Setonian’s news section. She can be reached at michela.dilorenzo@student.shu.edu.
