University earns national recognition for value, teaching and student experience
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 22, 2026) — Belmont University climbed into the top 100 private colleges nationally for the first time, according to U.S. News & World Report's 2027 Best Colleges rankings.
Belmont's top rankings this year include:
- No. 99, Top Private Colleges
- No. 25, Undergraduate Teaching Programs
- No. 29, First-Year Experiences
- No. 59, Best Value Schools
Belmont was also recognized among National Universities, Undergraduate Nursing, Undergraduate Business, Best Colleges for Veterans and Top Performers on Social Mobility.
"We're grateful for this recognition from U.S. News & World Report because it reflects the work of our entire community," said Belmont University President Greg Jones. "Rankings can offer one perspective on a university's strengths, and we're encouraged when they affirm areas where we've invested deeply, from the classroom experience to how we support students. Still, our focus remains unchanged: preparing students to lead lives of purpose, serve their communities and make a meaningful impact in the world."
The rankings follow a period of significant investment at Belmont through Hope Transforms, the University's $700 million campaign, including the new Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business facility on Music Row, The CORD at the Historic Powerhouse and the newly launched Animation & Media Arts B.F.A. Belmont also opened the fall semester with record-breaking first day enrollment, the largest in University history.
Belmont's Gordon E. Inman College of Nursing was recognized among Undergraduate Nursing programs. Ninety-five percent of nursing graduates achieve career outcomes within six months of graduation, and the college's 2025 graduates posted a 98% first-time NCLEX pass rate, with 100% ultimately earning licensure.
The Massey College of Business was also recognized among Undergraduate Business programs. The College, which offers 12 undergraduate majors ranging from entrepreneurship to supply chain management, reported a 96% employment rate within six months of graduation in 2025.
Belmont University Media Contact
Julia Copeland, Director of PR
615.460.6178
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