U.S. News & World Report Recognizes SWOSU as One of the Best Regional Universities in the West

March 30, 2023

SWOSU Press Release

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is pleased to announce that it has been recognized as one of the top regional universities in the West, according to the 2023 edition of the “Best Colleges” report by U.S. News & World Report. SWOSU has been ranked in the “Regional Universities West” category, which includes both public and private institutions.

The U.S. News & World Report ranks the regional universities in four geographical groups: North, South, Midwest, and West. The “Regional Universities West” category includes universities that offer a full range of undergraduate programs and some master’s programs. As part of the Western region, SWOSU is up against 120 other universities, including those part of the Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO).

SWOSU has been ranked #71 among the best regional universities in the West, with all but one of the RUSO’s institutions ranked below it. In addition, SWOSU has achieved a #84 ranking in the “Top Performers on Social Mobility: Regional Universities- West” category and a #37 ranking in “Top Public Schools: Regional Universities- West.”

The U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Colleges” rankings are determined based on key characteristics, such as information regarding majors, campus life, and more. They also use data provided directly by the institutions, with statistics that are not available to and from external sources. The U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics provides information about graduation rates, retention rates, and expenditures.

When asked about this recognition SWOSU President Dr. Diana Lovell said, “this acknowledgment is a testament to SWOSU’s commitment to delivering high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for our students.”

SWOSU has proudly stood on the hilltop in Weatherford, Oklahoma since its establishment in 1901. Offering over 100 affordable undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon, SWOSU provides a diverse range of academic opportunities with a high-quality education to its students. The university boasts a vibrant community of more than 5,000 scholars and over 200 dedicated faculty and staff. With strong academic programs and a commitment to excellence, SWOSU continues to be a top choice for students seeking a quality education.

For more information about SWOSU, visit www.swosu.edu. To see the 2022-23 U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Colleges” list, visit https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges.