University receives highest ever U.S. News & World Report ranking

For the first time in its history, Wayne State University has been named one of the top 100 public universities in the country in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best College rankings, which were released on Sept. 24. Wayne State’s No. 97 ranking is an improvement of 12 spots over last year.

The annual survey — aimed to guide prospective students and their families — evaluated 1,500 universities and colleges, using 17 measures of academic quality in its assessment. The latest edition prioritizes social mobility and post-graduate success.

Wayne State’s strong showing is buoyed by its No. 62 ranking in social mobility, a significant improvement of 89 spots, or 59% over last year. The ranking positions Wayne State in the top 14% of national institutions for social mobility, and the leader in Michigan.  

“As outlined in our Prosperity Agenda, we are committed to accelerating mobility for our students by providing them with an accessible, innovative learning environment that prepares them to excel both academically and in their careers,” said President Kimberly Andrews Espy, Ph.D.  “This ranking affirms what we already knew: Wayne State is one of America’s top public universities, providing students an excellent education and experience.

“With one of our largest-ever incoming undergraduate classes, increased overall enrollment and our growing reputation as a center of academic and research excellence, it’s clear that Wayne State is on the move. It’s exciting, and we are energized to further grow our impact.”

Wayne State’s overall national university ranking also jumped significantly from last year, moving up to No. 179 from No. 201. This places the university in the top 12% of the 1,500 universities and colleges evaluated by U.S. News & World Report.