UWRF receives national recognition for providing high quality education

RIVER FALLS – The University of Wisconsin-River Falls has once again been recognized by multiple publications as one of the top public regional universities in the Midwest, a sign of the university’s ongoing commitment to providing students a high-quality education. 

U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review have each selected UWRF for its excellence in educating students. The rankings also reflect college affordability and students being prepared for successful careers. 

“Our faculty and staff are deeply committed to creating transformational experiences that go far beyond the classroom,” said Interim Chancellor John Chenoweth. “From internships and study abroad to athletics, research and creative endeavors, these opportunities empower our students to thrive—personally and professionally—while delivering an exceptional value.” 

The U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings released on Sept. 23 lists UWRF tied for No. 15 among public regional universities in the Midwest and tied for 54^th among regional universities in the Midwest.  

The U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings are calculated using up to 19 measures of academic quality, with the intent of helping students and their families identify colleges that best meet their needs. The report evaluates 1,500 colleges and universities nationally.  

UWRF has again been named to the Princeton Review’s Best Regional Colleges list for 2026. UWRF is among 151 colleges to be listed in the Midwest region and is one of four public schools in Wisconsin. 

The Princeton Review, a leading education services company in the U.S., states that colleges making its list are “academically outstanding and worth consideration in your college search.” The ranking is based on academic excellence and feedback from current students.  

Students said they were drawn to UWRF for its quality education at an affordable price, faculty who want to help students achieve success and a myriad of opportunities for internships, student teaching, studying abroad and real work experience, which make grads exceptionally competitive once they hit the job market.  

One satisfied student summed up the access students have to faculty. 

“They are available often and answer questions in a timely manner, which helps ease a lot of stress,” the student wrote. “I have had nothing but a great experience so far.” 

In addition to awards for academic excellence, UWRF holds a current STARS Gold rating in recognition of its sustainability achievements from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). 

STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) measures and encourages sustainability in all aspects of higher education. Ratings are awarded in Reporter, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum levels, with Platinum being the highest. 

UWRF was awarded the STARS Gold rating in April 2024, and it remains active for three years.  

Submitted by UW-River Falls