Lenoir-Rhyne recognized among Top 15 universities in the South

Lenoir-Rhyne has been named a Top 15 Best Value university among all universities in the Southern region in U.S. News and World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings released today.

LR is ranked #15 in “Best Value – Regional Universities (South),” improving from #19 last year. The university also rose to #45 among “Regional Universities (South),” up from #51 in 2024.

“Lenoir-Rhyne University is known as one of North Carolina’s top private universities, but these rankings highlight something equally important—the value and affordability of a Lenoir-Rhyne education,” said Lenoir-Rhyne President Dr. Summer McGee. “Families should not have to choose between affordability and high quality. At Lenoir-Rhyne, they get both.”

These recognitions highlight Lenoir-Rhyne’s continued commitment to delivering exceptional academic quality while ensuring higher education remains within reach for students from diverse backgrounds. The Best Value ranking considers academic excellence, affordability and financial aid support.

Lenoir-Rhyne University’s commitment to educational access and value is demonstrated in four ways:  

• Financial Aid: Thanks to its generous donors and comprehensive financial aid, 99 percent of students receive financial aid, with more than $30 million awarded annually.  
• Career Outcomes: 98% of graduates are employed full-time or pursuing advanced study within six months of graduation.  
• Return on Investment: Every $1 invested in an LR education, graduates earn $3.62 in lifetime earnings.
• Innovation: Lenoir-Rhyne has many innovative routes to a degree, including Bear Bound for transfer students, LR Online for adult learners and accelerated master’s degrees that allow students to complete both bachelor’s and graduate-level studies in a reduced timeframe.

The latest U.S. News & World Report rankings further solidify Lenoir-Rhyne’s reputation as one of the leading regional universities in the South, recognized for its academic strength, affordability and outcomes.