Southwestern University has been named a 2025-2026 College of Distinction, once again earning nationwide recognition for its transformative undergraduate experience. This prestigious designation is awarded to schools whose commitment to engaged, experiential education sets them apart.

Colleges of Distinction, a nationwide college guide, evaluates colleges and universities using four unique criteria: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community, and successful outcomes. Through extensive research and interviews, Colleges of Distinction identifies institutions that make a meaningful impact on their students’ lives.

“Southwestern University has crafted a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning,” Colleges of Distinction Chief Operating Officer Tyson Schritter said. “Its programs reflect the kind of innovation and intentionality that prepare students for life after graduation.”

Colleges of Distinction also lauded Southwestern for the University’s outstanding career development, business, and education programs.

As a testament to the strength of the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD), Southwestern was honored with a 2025-2026 Career Development badge. This distinction is awarded to institutions who display exceptional commitment in preparing students for lifelong career success. Schools are evaluated based on their delivery of integrated career exploration and preparation, accessible programs and training, and dedicated, career-centered staff.

“Career services can often be treated as an afterthought, but not at Southwestern,” Schritter said. “The CCPD’s approach to career development is deeply embedded in the student experience from day one through graduation and beyond.”

Southwestern was further honored for its commitment to preparing students for the demands of today’s global economy by being named a 2025-2026 Business College of Distinction. This award is granted to schools whose undergraduate business programs balance classroom theory with real-world application, preparing graduates to lead with confidence, integrity, and agility.

“Southwestern understands that effective business education is about more than numbers, but also about nurturing innovative, ethical leaders,” Schritter said. “Through faculty mentorship, interdisciplinary coursework, and immersive learning opportunities, Southwestern students are gaining the insight and experience needed to adapt in a rapidly changing landscape.”

Similarly, Southwestern’s honor as a 2025-2026 Education College of Distinction is a testament to the quality of the University’s hands-on approach to learning, leading, and succeeding. Recognizing SU’s stellar curriculum and outcomes for education majors, Colleges of Distinction granted this award as a stamp of approval for the impactful ways that students are prepared to lead their own classrooms after graduation.

Unlike rankings that focus on prestige-driven metrics, Colleges of Distinction highlights schools that champion educational impact, from first-year seminars and collaborative projects to undergraduate research, global learning, and internships. Southwestern’s inclusion is a result of its commitment to these high-impact experiences and personalized support that it offers students throughout their Southwestern Experience.

To view Southwestern’s profile or to find more information about the programs it offers, visit collegesofdistinction.com/school/southwestern-university.