U.S. News & World Report surveyed more than 1,400 colleges and universities for its annual publication, and based its rankings on 15 widely accepted indicators of excellence. UST’s low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, small class sizes and the high percentage of freshmen who were ranked in the top quarter of the high school their graduating class were key factors in St. Thomas’ ranking.  

A prospective student’s decision to select a university depends on many subjective factors, but university rankings provide a starting point to compare various aspects of different schools at a glance. Combined with campus visits and interviews, the rankings provide an unmatched resource for parents and students contemplating one of life’s most challenging financial decisions.  

UST is categorized among schools that provide a full range of undergraduate and master’s programs, but few doctoral programs. University of St. Thomas offers eight master’s programs and one doctoral program in philosophy. The 572 universities in this category are ranked within four geographic areas – North, South, Midwest and West – because these schools tend to draw students heavily from the surrounding states. 

 “The University of St Thomas is pleased to be recognized by U.S. News and World Report as an outstanding university in the Western region,” said UST President Dr. Robert Ivany. “Our faculty’s excellence and dedication to our students deserve admiration and appreciation. Everyone in the Houston community benefits from our graduates who become leaders of faith and character in our society.” 

University of St. Thomas, dedicated to educating leaders of faith and character, is a private institution committed to the liberal arts and to the religious, ethical and intellectual tradition of Catholic higher education.