2024 Best Colleges in the Midwest

The University of Chicago is a prestigious private research university located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. Known for its rigorous academics and distinctive intellectual culture, the university consistently ranks among the top institutions in the United States. Founded in 1890, the University of Chicago offers a comprehensive liberal arts education combined with a strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary study. Its unique “Core Curriculum” fosters critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a deep engagement with the great works of human history.

As part of the prestigious Big Ten Academic Alliance, the University of Chicago is a hub for collaboration across disciplines, with world-class faculties in economics, history, law, biology, physics, and the humanities. The university’s dedication to teaching is matched by its commitment to producing cutting-edge research and contributing to societal advancement. The picturesque campus, marked by Gothic architecture, is home to a diverse student body from across the globe, creating an inclusive and vibrant academic community. Students benefit from the university’s extensive resources, including libraries, research centers, and state-of-the-art laboratories.

The University of Chicago is renowned for its alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields including economics, law, science, and public policy. Its location in the heart of Chicago provides students with access to a wealth of cultural, economic, and professional opportunities. The university’s tradition of free intellectual inquiry is bolstered by a culture of debate and discussion, with opportunities for students to engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities, from student government and cultural organizations to cutting-edge research projects. The University of Chicago is more than a place of study; it is a place where ideas are challenged, refined, and tested, making it a leader among colleges in the Midwest and beyond.

Northwestern University is a prestigious private research institution located in Evanston, Illinois, just north of Chicago. It is renowned for its rigorous academic programs, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life. As one of the leading universities in the Midwest, Northwestern offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs across its twelve schools, including the highly regarded Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, the Kellogg School of Management, the Feinberg School of Medicine, and the School of Law.

The university’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning is a hallmark of its educational philosophy. Northwestern encourages students to explore multiple fields of study, providing a flexible curriculum that allows students to pursue multiple interests and blend diverse disciplines. The university’s proximity to Chicago provides students with unique opportunities for internships, job placements, and networking with professionals across a wide range of industries, including business, media, technology, and healthcare.

Northwestern is also known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. The university’s faculty are leaders in their respective fields, contributing to groundbreaking research that spans from medical advancements to the arts and humanities. The campus itself is an intellectual hub, with state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant campus life that includes numerous student organizations, arts programs, and athletic teams competing in the Big Ten Conference.

Moreover, Northwestern’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion creates an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can thrive academically and personally. The university’s dedication to service and community engagement is reflected in its robust programs that encourage students to make a positive impact both locally and globally. With a strong alumni network and a reputation for excellence, Northwestern University continues to attract top talent from across the country and around the world.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, often referred to as Illinois or UIUC, is a prestigious public research university located in the heart of the Midwest in Urbana-Champaign, Illinois. Established in 1867, it is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and a cornerstone of the Big Ten Conference. The campus, sprawling across 1,783 acres, offers a rich blend of historic and modern architectural styles, providing a vibrant, dynamic environment for students, faculty, and staff.

Illinois is renowned for its rigorous academic programs across various disciplines including engineering, business, computer science, liberal arts, and health sciences. It consistently ranks among the top public research universities in the country, known for its innovative research, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to advancing knowledge. The university’s faculty includes leading experts in their fields, and students benefit from a highly collaborative learning environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

The Urbana-Champaign community is characterized by its welcoming atmosphere and diverse student body, with individuals from all 50 states and more than 100 countries. The area itself is a cultural hub with numerous museums, theaters, music venues, and outdoor activities, providing a well-rounded collegiate experience. The university’s athletics program is also a point of pride, with the Fighting Illini competing in the Big Ten Conference in a variety of sports.

Beyond academics and athletics, Illinois offers a wealth of student organizations, community service opportunities, and research initiatives. The university’s focus on sustainability and global engagement further enriches the educational experience, preparing graduates to become leaders in their respective fields. Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is not just a place to earn a degree but a place to shape a future.

The University of Notre Dame, located in the heart of the Midwest, is one of the most renowned private Catholic research universities in the United States. Nestled in South Bend, Indiana, Notre Dame is known for its commitment to academic excellence, faith, and tradition. Founded in 1842 by the Congregation of the Holy Cross, the university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines including liberal arts, sciences, engineering, business, and law.

Notre Dame’s picturesque campus spans over 1,250 acres, characterized by stunning Gothic architecture, expansive quads, and lush landscapes. The iconic Basilica of the Sacred Heart and the Golden Dome, symbol of the university, grace the landscape and provide a sense of historical significance and spiritual inspiration. The institution prides itself on fostering a strong sense of community, encouraging students to excel not only academically but also as individuals who contribute to society.

With a student-faculty ratio of 9:1, Notre Dame offers a personalized learning environment where students benefit from small class sizes and close interaction with esteemed faculty members. The university’s emphasis on a liberal arts education helps students develop critical thinking, leadership skills, and a sense of social responsibility. Notre Dame graduates are equipped to thrive in diverse professional fields due to a rigorous curriculum that integrates faith, ethics, and service with academic rigor.

Beyond the classroom, Notre Dame is a hub of cultural and extracurricular activities, with numerous student organizations, clubs, and varsity sports fostering a vibrant campus life. The Fighting Irish, with their storied football team, are a central part of the university’s identity, creating a spirited atmosphere that is uniquely Notre Dame. The university’s commitment to community service is reflected in the many service-oriented programs that encourage students to make a positive impact in their local and global communities. Overall, the University of Notre Dame stands as a beacon of intellectual, moral, and spiritual development in the Midwest.

Purdue University is a public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. It was founded in 1869 and has since become a leading institution for its excellence in engineering, technology, and science. Purdue offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across ten colleges and schools.

One of the notable features of Purdue is its strong focus on research and innovation. The university is home to several research centers and institutes, including the Birck Nanotechnology Center and the Purdue Research Park. Additionally, Purdue is known for its world-renowned engineering program, which has produced several notable alumni, including Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon.

In conclusion, Indiana is home to several top colleges and universities, including the University of Notre Dame and Purdue University. These institutions offer students a wide range of academic programs and opportunities to excel in their chosen fields.

The University of Iowa is a public research university located in Iowa City. Founded in 1847, it is the oldest and second-largest university in the state of Iowa. The university is known for its strong programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences, and is particularly well-regarded for its writing programs.

The University of Iowa is home to over 30,000 students, and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its 11 colleges. Some of the most popular majors at the university include business, engineering, and health sciences.

In addition to its academic programs, the University of Iowa is also known for its strong athletics programs. The university’s football and basketball teams are particularly popular, and the university has a strong tradition of producing successful athletes.

Grinnell College is a private liberal arts college located in Grinnell, Iowa. Founded in 1846, it is one of the oldest colleges in the state, and is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social justice.

Grinnell College has a student population of around 1,700, and offers a wide range of majors across its three academic divisions: humanities, social studies, and natural sciences. The college is particularly well-regarded for its programs in the sciences, and is known for its strong commitment to undergraduate research.

In addition to its academic programs, Grinnell College is also known for its strong commitment to social justice and community service. The college has a number of programs and initiatives aimed at promoting social justice and community engagement, and is known for its active and engaged student body.

The University of Kansas (KU) is a public research university located in Lawrence, Kansas. It is the largest university in the state of Kansas, with a student population of over 28,000. The university is known for its strong programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences.

KU has several highly-ranked programs, including its School of Education, which is ranked 8th among public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The university is also known for its School of Engineering, which is ranked 38th among public universities.

In addition to its strong academic programs, KU is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets and the Center for Computational Biology. These centers provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and gain valuable hands-on experience.

Kansas State University (KSU) is a public research university located in Manhattan, Kansas. It is the oldest public university in the state of Kansas, with a history dating back to 1863. KSU is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and veterinary medicine.

KSU has several highly-ranked programs, including its College of Veterinary Medicine, which is ranked 3rd in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The university is also known for its College of Engineering, which is ranked 70th among public universities.

In addition to its strong academic programs, KSU is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Biosecurity Research Institute and the Institute for Environmental Research. These centers provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and gain valuable hands-on experience.

The University of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, is a public research university that is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the country. It is also one of the founding members of the Association of American Universities. The University of Michigan offers over 250 degree programs across its 19 schools and colleges, including the highly ranked Ross School of Business and College of Engineering.

The University of Michigan has a highly selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 23%. The university is also known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in football and basketball. Notable alumni include former President Gerald Ford, Google co-founder Larry Page, and actress Lucy Liu.

Michigan State University, located in East Lansing, is another top-ranked public research university in Michigan. It is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and business. Michigan State University offers over 200 academic programs across its 17 degree-granting colleges.

Michigan State University has a slightly higher acceptance rate than the University of Michigan, at around 66%. The university is also known for its successful athletic programs, particularly in basketball and football. Notable alumni include NBA player Draymond Green, former NFL player Morten Andersen, and actress Kristen Bell.

Overall, Michigan is home to several top-ranked colleges and universities, including the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students to excel both academically and athletically.

The University of Minnesota, located in Minneapolis, is one of the largest universities in the Midwest. It is a public research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university has a strong reputation for its research, particularly in the fields of science and technology.

The University of Minnesota has several campuses across the state, but the main campus in Minneapolis is the most well-known. The campus is home to over 50,000 students and offers a diverse range of programs, including business, engineering, education, and more.

One of the most notable features of the University of Minnesota is its commitment to sustainability. The university has implemented several green initiatives, including a bike-sharing program, a composting program, and a solar panel installation project.

Carleton College, located in Northfield, is a small liberal arts college with a strong reputation for academic excellence. The college has a student body of around 2,000 students and offers a wide range of majors, including biology, chemistry, economics, and more.

Carleton College is known for its rigorous academic programs and its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The college has a strong focus on experiential learning and encourages students to participate in research, internships, and other hands-on learning opportunities.

One of the most notable features of Carleton College is its beautiful campus. The college is situated on over 1,000 acres of land and features several unique buildings and landmarks, including the Goodsell Observatory and the Cowling Arboretum.

Overall, both the University of Minnesota and Carleton College are excellent choices for students looking to attend college in Minnesota. With their strong academic programs, commitment to sustainability and diversity, and beautiful campuses, these colleges are among the best in the Midwest.

Washington University in St. Louis is a private research university located in the city of St. Louis. It is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the country and is known for its strong programs in medicine, law, and business.

The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of around 7,000 students and offers over 90 majors across seven schools. The most popular majors include business, engineering, biology, and psychology.

In addition to its academic programs, Washington University is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the McDonnell International Scholars Academy and the Siteman Cancer Center.

The University of Missouri, also known as Mizzou, is a public research university located in Columbia, Missouri. It is the flagship institution of the University of Missouri System and is the largest university in the state.

Mizzou has a total undergraduate enrollment of around 25,000 students and offers over 300 degree programs across 18 colleges and schools. The most popular majors include business, health professions, and engineering.

The university is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Bond Life Sciences Center and the Reynolds Journalism Institute.

Overall, both Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Missouri offer top-notch academic programs and research opportunities for students in the Midwest region.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is a public research university located in Lincoln, Nebraska. With an enrollment of over 25,000 undergraduate and graduate students, UNL is the flagship institution of the University of Nebraska System.

UNL offers over 150 undergraduate majors and minors, as well as over 100 graduate programs across its nine colleges. The university is particularly well-regarded for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.

In addition to its academic offerings, UNL is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Nebraska Center for Energy Sciences Research and the Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute.

Overall, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a top-tier institution in the Midwest, offering a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities to its students.

The University of North Dakota (UND) is a public research university located in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Founded in 1883, it is the oldest and largest university in the state. UND is classified as a Doctoral University with Higher Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

UND offers over 225 fields of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university is known for its strong programs in aerospace, engineering, and health sciences. In addition, UND is one of the few universities in the country to offer a degree in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

According to the Princeton Review’s “Best Colleges: Region by Region,” UND is one of the best colleges in the Midwest. The university is also recognized for its affordability, with low tuition rates and a variety of scholarships and financial aid options available to students.

UND has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 70 countries. The university has a strong commitment to student success, offering a variety of academic and support services to help students achieve their goals.

Overall, the University of North Dakota is a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education in the Midwest. With its strong programs, affordable tuition rates, and commitment to student success, UND is a great option for students looking to achieve their academic and career goals.

Ohio State University (OSU) is a public research university located in Columbus, Ohio. It is one of the largest universities in the United States and is known for its strong academic programs and top-ranked sports teams.

OSU offers over 200 undergraduate majors and more than 250 graduate programs. It is particularly well-known for its programs in business, engineering, and medicine. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

In addition to its academic programs, OSU is also known for its vibrant campus life. The university has over 1,000 student organizations and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, cultural festivals, and sporting events.

Kenyon College is a private liberal arts college located in Gambier, Ohio. It is known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus, which includes Gothic-style buildings and a scenic nature preserve.

Kenyon College offers over 50 majors and minors in fields such as English, history, biology, and psychology. The college is particularly well-known for its programs in creative writing and environmental studies.

In addition to its academic programs, Kenyon College is also known for its strong sense of community. The college has a low student-to-faculty ratio and encourages students to engage in collaborative learning and research projects. The college also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and art exhibitions.

Overall, Ohio is home to a variety of top-ranked colleges and universities, including Ohio State University and Kenyon College. These institutions offer a range of academic programs and vibrant campus communities, making them great options for students seeking a high-quality education in the Midwest.

The University of South Dakota (USD) is a public research university located in Vermillion, South Dakota. It was founded in 1862 and is the oldest university in the state. USD offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including business, law, medicine, and education.

USD is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to research. The university is classified as a high research activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. In addition, USD has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top public universities in the Midwest.

The university has a total enrollment of approximately 10,000 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1. USD offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 150 student organizations, club sports, and NCAA Division I athletics.

Some notable programs at USD include the Beacom School of Business, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), and the School of Law, which is ranked as one of the top law schools in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

Overall, the University of South Dakota is a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education in the Midwest. With its strong academic programs, commitment to research, and wide range of extracurricular activities, USD offers students an excellent college experience.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison, located in the heart of the Midwest, stands as a beacon of academic excellence and vibrant campus life. Established in 1848, it is one of the premier public research universities in the United States and a member of the prestigious Big Ten Conference. Known for its beautiful lakeside campus, the university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, historic architecture, and an engaging community of over 40,000 students.

UW-Madison offers a wide array of academic programs, with over 230 undergraduate majors, master’s, and doctoral programs across its 13 schools and colleges. The College of Letters & Science, the Wisconsin School of Business, and the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences are particularly renowned, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and hands-on learning experiences. Its robust research initiatives, including the Wisconsin Idea, emphasize extending knowledge beyond the classroom to benefit communities statewide and globally.

The university’s culture is deeply tied to the Midwest’s friendly and collaborative spirit, making it an inviting destination for students from diverse backgrounds. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, UW-Madison cultivates an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Beyond academics, the campus is alive with Badger pride, featuring NCAA Division I sports teams, dynamic arts programs, and a host of student organizations. Located in the vibrant city of Madison, students enjoy a mix of cultural events, outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community, all making UW-Madison a quintessential Midwestern collegiate experience.

Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Marquette University is a distinguished private Catholic, Jesuit institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic education. Founded in 1881, Marquette is named after Jacques Marquette, a 17th-century Jesuit missionary and explorer, embodying a tradition of innovation, service, and exploration.

Marquette University offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across 11 colleges and schools, including Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, and Health Sciences. It is particularly noted for its robust programs in business, law, and health sciences, fostering a hands-on, experiential learning environment.

The university emphasizes a well-rounded education, integrating rigorous academics with opportunities for community service and leadership. As a Jesuit institution, Marquette instills values of ethical decision-making, social justice, and a commitment to the common good, preparing students to be agents of positive change in their communities and beyond.

Marquette’s urban campus in Milwaukee offers a vibrant setting with proximity to cultural attractions, professional networking opportunities, and outdoor activities along Lake Michigan. The university also fosters a strong sense of community through its Division I athletic teams, the Marquette Golden Eagles, which are a source of pride and camaraderie.

Known for its dedicated faculty, diverse student body, and emphasis on personal growth, Marquette University consistently ranks among the top universities in the Midwest. It stands as a beacon for students seeking an education rooted in academic rigor and a commitment to serving others.