View of campus green with pillars

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Northern State University has again been recognized among the top regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.

Northern is 80th on the Best Regional Universities Midwest list of the 2021 Best Colleges rankings, released today. On the smaller Best Public Regional Universities Midwest list, Northern ranked 19th.

This is the 13th straight year NSU has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report, and the university has consistently improved rankings each year. For example, Northern’s Best Regional Universities Midwest ranking is 23 spots higher than five years ago, according to information from the NSU Office of Institutional Research and Assessment.

U.S. News defines regional universities as those offering a broad range of undergraduate degrees; some master's degrees; but few, if any, doctoral programs, according to the U.S. News explanation of methodology.

In a separate ranking, Northern was also recently included in University HQ’s list of the Most Affordable Colleges and Universities by State, which recognized two of the most affordable colleges in each state in the U.S.

“We’re honored to be recognized by U.S. News and World Report and additional rankings that aim to guide students toward quality universities in their college search,” said NSU President Dr. Tim Downs. “I’m proud of the exceptional experience Northern provides to students, focusing on affordability, outstanding academics and numerous extracurricular opportunities.”

To learn more about studying at Northern State University, contact NSU Admissions at 605-626-2544 or admissions@northern.edu.

About Northern State University

Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and, soon, an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $120 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.