Father Dave Pivonka, TOR '89 President | Franciscan University website

September 24, 2024

STEUBENVILLE, OHIO—U.S. News & World Report’s 2024-25 Best Colleges guidebook has ranked Franciscan University of Steubenville 28th among all “Midwest Universities.” This ranking places Franciscan in the top tier of the region’s 164 colleges and makes it one of Ohio’s top six universities.

In addition to its 89 percent first-year retention rate, 75 percent graduation rate, and a 15-1 student/faculty ratio, Franciscan University has seen significant developments. The recent opening of Christ the Teacher Academic Hall and Pope St. Paul VI Event Center is notable. The new facility is now the largest building on campus at more than 110,000 square feet and includes an academic wing for engineering, business, and nursing students as well as an event center wing for spiritual and educational conferences.

“We’re excited more people are hearing about the great things happening at Franciscan,” said Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89, president of Franciscan University. “As we continue to grow year after year, I’m most grateful for our amazing students who come for our unique approach to Catholic formation and academic excellence and go forth transformed and equipped to build up the Church and sanctify the world.”

Franciscan University also received high marks from U.S. News & World Report for its effectiveness in enrolling and graduating low-income and first-generation students. The university jumped from 92nd to 36th place in two years in the “social mobility” category.

The strong rating from U.S. News comes during a period of growth for Franciscan University. In August, it welcomed its largest incoming class in history with 812 students. For ten consecutive years, overall enrollment has broken records, bringing the total number of students enrolled on campus and online to 3,977. This growth was also evident at Commencement in May with a record-breaking class of 896 graduates.

“I love how the Catholic faith is integrated into every class available, including STEM and language courses,” said one incoming freshman in a new student survey. “I also recognize how quickly the school is growing and the academic rigor.”

Additionally, U.S. News placed Franciscan University 13th among Best Colleges for Veterans in the Midwest. This category recognizes universities that make college education more affordable for veterans and active-duty service members.

U.S. News & World Report has included Franciscan University of Steubenville in the elite top tier of Midwest Universities each year since 1998.

For more information about Franciscan University, visit franciscan.edu.