By Hazel Scott/ASU
Progress is measured in many ways, and for Alabama State University, movement in the latest national rankings offers another indication of the University’s continued institutional momentum.
Alabama State University has moved from No. 36 in 2025 to No. 29 in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), a seven-position improvement. The University also ranks No. 28 among Top Public Schools.
The latest HBCU ranking provides another national measure of Alabama State University’s institutional profile and progress.
ASU President Quinton T. Ross, Jr., expressed that the movement underscores the importance of maintaining a sustained focus on the factors that contribute to student success and institutional excellence.
“As we continue implementing FOCUS 2030 (the University’s Strategic Plan), we remain committed to strengthening the underlying indicators that contribute to institutional excellence—including student retention and graduation, academic quality, faculty and financial resources, social mobility, and overall student outcomes,” Ross explained.
U.S. News rankings consider multiple measures of institutional performance and student outcomes. While rankings represent only one way to indicate a university’s progress, Alabama State University’s movement from No. 36 to No. 29 provides a measurable indicator of increased national recognition.
The new report comes as Alabama State University advances its FOCUS 2030 strategic priorities, with an emphasis on strengthening the University’s academic foundation, supporting student achievement and positioning the institution for continued growth.
“Our work must continue,” Ross stressed. “Through intentional planning, data-informed decision-making, academic innovation, and a sustained focus on student success, we will continue positioning Alabama State University for even greater national recognition.”
For Alabama State University, Ross acknowledged the latest ranking is one marker in a broader effort to strengthen the institution and enhance student experience.
“The University remains focused on the work behind the numbers—improving student outcomes, strengthening institutional resources and advancing its national visibility. We will continue to ‘Make Room for Greatness!’” Ross added.
More About the Rankings
U.S. News & World Report’s HBCU rankings compare eligible Historically Black Colleges and Universities with one another. To be included, an institution must be currently designated as an HBCU by the U.S. Department of Education and meet U.S. News’ eligibility requirements, including being an undergraduate baccalaureate-granting institution that primarily enrolls first-year, first-time students and being included in the 2027 Best Colleges rankings.