The University of San Diego continues its upward trajectory as one of the nation’s leading Catholic universities, recognized for academic excellence, innovation and student success. USD appears in university rankings from U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, The Princeton Review and Niche — four of the most trusted and widely used platforms for prospective students researching colleges and universities. These recognitions highlight USD’s strength in areas such as teaching quality, student experience and commitment to service. Building on milestones such as founding the nation’s first stand-alone School of Peace Studies and serving as the first West Coast Changemaker Campus, the University of San Diego remains dedicated to preparing students who foster peace, work for justice and lead with love.
USD Ranks Second Nationally in Study Abroad Participation
The University of San Diego is once again among the top study-abroad institutions in the country, according to data from the Open Doors report.
University Rankings
Forbes
#23 In The West#63 In Private Colleges
#76 In Research Universities
Niche Best Colleges
#15 Best Colleges in California#23 Best College Campuses in America
#83 Top Private Universities in America
#98 Best College Locations in America
The Princeton Review
#12 Best Quality of LifeU.S. News & World Report
#14 Undergraduate Teaching#49 Best Value Schools
#73 Best Colleges for Veterans
Program Excellence
Niche Best Colleges
#80 Best Colleges for Communications in America
#82 Best Colleges for Math in America
#92 Best Colleges for Political Science in America
#92 Best Colleges for International Relations in America
#97 Best Colleges for Philosophy in America
U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report
#12 Tax Law
#22 Intellectual Property
#32 Constitutional Law
#52 Criminal Law Programs
#50 Environmental Law
#62 International Law Programs
#54 Contracts/Commercial Law Programs
#57 Law Schools
#55 Health Care Law Programs
#62 Best Business/Corporate Law Programs
#66 Trial Advocacy Programs
U.S. News & World Report
#77 Best Online Master's in Education Programs
Learn more about the School of Leadership and Education Sciences
U.S. News & World Report
#74 Doctor of Nursing Practice
Learn more about the Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science
The Kroc School is USD’s dedicated hub for advancing peace‐building and social justice through interdisciplinary education, research and global action.
- In October 2025, USD was honored with a Social Impact Award, recognizing the Kroc School’s work advancing peace, justice and community engagement.
- The School continues to attract a diverse and global student body (students from 30+ countries) and is listed as a partner institution for the Peace Corps Coverdell Fellows program — evidence of its institutional recognition and mission alignment.
U.S. News & World Report
#17 Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs
Learn more about the Division of Professional and Continuing Education
University News
Rankings Methodology
This page highlights four nationally recognized rankings platforms that reflect the University of San Diego’s academic excellence, student experience and institutional mission. While many organizations rank colleges and universities, these were chosen based on credibility, relevance to prospective students and families, and alignment with USD’s commitment to student success.
Our selected platforms — U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, The Princeton Review and Niche — together provide a balanced view of the USD experience. From national academic standing and career outcomes to student satisfaction and campus life, these rankings highlight the excellence and impact that define a USD education.