Rankings Stories & News

UNI campus in the fall

UNI recognized in Wall Street Journal’s “2026 Best Colleges in America” rankings

The University of Northern Iowa has been named to the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in America list, ranking No. 289 out of nearly 600 institutions listed nationwide.
UNI campus

UNI remains a top choice for Best Regional Public Universities in the Midwest

The University of Northern Iowa has once again been ranked No. 2 among the Midwest’s Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report, continuing a two-decade tradition of excellence. 
Student walking on UNI campus

UNI ranked among nation’s best colleges for tuition value and service

The University of Northern Iowa has received national recognition in Washington Monthly’s 2025 College Rankings, earning a place among the nation’s Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars. 
Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Transfer Honor Roll

UNI recognized as a transfer-friendly institution for eight years in a row

The University of Northern Iowa has been named to Phi Theta Kappa’s Transfer Honor Roll for its eighth year in a row, recognizing the dynamic pathways UNI has created to support transfer students. 
Future students take note: UNI's accounting program just got another top recognition

Future students take note: UNI’s accounting program just got another top recognition

The Wilson College of Business accounting program is the first in the world to obtain supplemental accounting accreditation from AACSB through an accelerated path.
Students walking toward Curris Business Building

Wilson College of Business becomes first in the world to earn AACSB supplemental accounting accreditation through accelerated path

After decades of maintaining accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International, the Wilson College of Business at the University of Northern Iowa can now add AACSB’s supplemental accounting accreditation to its impressive resume.
Military Friendly School Gold Status 2025-26

UNI receives Military Friendly designation for sixth year in a row

For six years, UNI has been designated a Military Friendly® School, this year earning both Gold Status and the Military Friendly Spouse School distinctions.
Student working on laptop

U.S. News & World Report ranks UNI among Best Online Programs

UNI received top honors for both its online master’s in education programs and for the first time, its online bachelor’s programs.
UNI campus in the fall

UNI once again receives recognition as transfer-friendly institution

The University of Northern Iowa has once again been named to Phi Theta Kappa’s Transfer Honor Roll with just 227 other colleges and universities.
UNI campus during the fall

UNI holds steady as a top public university in the Midwest according to U.S. News & World Report

UNI has once again been ranked No. 2 on U.S. News & World Report's 2025 list of Best Regional Public Universities in the Midwest.