In the U.S. News and World Report release of 2026 Best Colleges, EKU once again ranked among Best National Universities, Top Public Schools, Top Performers on Social Mobility and Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs. For the third consecutive year, EKU landed first among Kentucky’s public universities in the Top Performers on Social Mobility list.
“We’re the top choice for first-generation students and first for graduate employment in the state,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “EKU is breaking barriers and so are our students, as evidenced by our continual recognition for social mobility—reflecting our commitment to access to higher education and graduate success.”
Social mobility refers to a person’s ability to move up in social or economic status. According to U.S. News and World Report, students who are economically disadvantaged are less likely than others to finish college. However, some colleges, such as EKU, are more successful at advancing social mobility through student success outcomes, leading to a national ranking for social mobility.
Of EKU’s Spring 2025 graduating class, 43% were Pell recipients or Pell eligible. For the past three years, more than 50% of the incoming freshman class have been first-generation college students. Earlier this year, EKU was named an “Opportunity College and University” by the Carnegie Foundation, which highlights institutions providing higher-than-expected levels of student access and post-graduation earnings.
A higher percentage of EKU graduates are employed in Kentucky one year after graduation than from any other public university in the state. Within six months of graduation, 77% report full-time employment, and 59% are employed within their field of study. EKU graduates also report an average starting salary of $50,000, and 93% indicate satisfaction with their career choice. EKU continually seeks to align academic programs with state workforce needs, preparing students for meaningful careers and long-term success.
“I chose Eastern Kentucky University because of its strong academic programs and sense of community,” said Matthew Quansah, a 2024 graduate of EKU’s Master of Public Health program. “The faculty and staff are dedicated to helping students succeed, and numerous resources are available for support. Overall, EKU seemed like the perfect fit for me to further my education and personal growth.”
The Best Colleges rankings evaluated nearly 1,700 U.S. colleges and universities based on factors measuring academic quality and graduate success. This review process offers a foundation for prospective college students to navigate the higher education landscape.
The U.S. News and World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings add to a growing list of national accolades for EKU, including Washington Monthly’s “Best Colleges for Your Tuition (and Tax) Dollars” and “2025 Best Bang for the Buck: South.” EKU is also ranked No. 2 for Military Friendly® Spouse Schools and the only school in Kentucky to make the top 10 list for Military Friendly® Schools.
By A’Mya Kendrick
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