SHU Earns National Marks in 2027 Niche Rankings

SHU recognized among the nation's best for career preparation, campus quality, student wellness, and student life

Key Highlights

• Sacred Heart University earned top national recognition across multiple categories in Niche’s 2027 Best Colleges rankings
• SHU ranked No. 44 nationally for best college campuses and No. 2 in Connecticut
• Sacred Heart ranked No. 38 in the nation for best college dorms, earning an A grade and the No. 2 position in Connecticut
• SHU earned an A+ for campus dining and ranked No. 35 nationally for best college food
• The University received A+ grades in Niche’s new Future Readiness and Student Wellness pilot categories

Sacred Heart University has earned top national marks across several categories in Niche’s 2027 Best Colleges rankings, including top 50 placements for campus quality, residence halls, and dining, as well as an A grade for student life.

SHU also received A+ grades for student wellness and future readiness, two new Niche pilot categories that reflect the University’s commitment to supporting students throughout their college experience and preparing them for success after graduation.

Niche’s college rankings are based on an analysis of academic, admissions, financial aid, and student-life data from the U.S. Department of Education, along with reviews from students and alumni. This year’s results highlight many of the qualities students and families consider when choosing a college, from the campus environment and residential experience to personal well-being and career preparation.

SHU’s Prestigious Placements

Top 50 College Campus in America

Sacred Heart ranks No. 44 out of 1,373 institutions on Niche’s “Best College Campuses in America” list, placing SHU among the top 50 nationally and No. 2 in Connecticut.  The recognition reflects SHU’s modern academic facilities, recreational facilities, and a welcoming campus environment.

A+ Rated for Future Readiness

Sacred Heart earned an A+ in Niche’s Future Readiness category, recognizing the University’s commitment to preparing students for success after graduation. The distinction reflects SHU’s emphasis on experiential learning, career development, and professional preparation across academic programs. The recognition is backed by a 99% career outcomes rate, with graduates employed or enrolled in graduate school within one year of earning their degree.

A+ Rated for Student Wellness

Sacred Heart earned an A+ in Niche’s Student Wellness category, recognizing the University’s commitment to supporting the whole student. SHU staff and faculty recognize that students’ well-being comes first: mind, body, and spirit. Through counseling resources, health and wellness services, personalized support, and a caring campus community, SHU helps students thrive academically, personally, and socially.

Top 50 Campus Housing in America

SHU ranks No. 38 out of 1,351 institutions for “Best College Dorms in America,” earning an A grade and the No. 2 position in Connecticut. From first-year housing to upper-class living options, SHU’s residential experience is designed to provide welcoming spaces where students can build friendships, become part of the campus community, and feel at home.

A+ Campus Dining

Sacred Heart earned an A+ for campus dining and ranks No. 35 out of 1,355 institutions on Niche’s “Best College Food in America” list. SHU’s dining program offers students a wide variety of options across campus while accommodating a range of tastes and dietary needs.

Top 100 for Student Life in America

SHU ranks No. 89 out of 1,487 institutions for “Best Student Life in America,” placing the University among the top 100 nationally and No. 2 in Connecticut. The ranking reflects a vibrant campus community where students can form connections, explore their interests, and get involved through clubs, organizations, athletics, performing arts, service opportunities, and campus events.

Top 20% Safest Campuses in America

Sacred Heart earned an A- for campus safety and ranks among the top 20% of institutions included on Niche’s “Safest College Campuses in America” list. The recognition reflects the University’s comprehensive approach to maintaining a secure and supportive environment where students can live, learn, and participate fully in campus life.

“These results reflect the experience we strive to provide every Sacred Heart student,” said SHU President John J. Petillo. “From the places where our students live and learn to the resources that support their well-being and prepare them for their careers, every aspect of campus life plays a role in helping them succeed.”

Sacred Heart also earned national recognition for several academic programs. Its physical therapy program ranks No. 113 out of 701 programs nationally, while accounting and finance ranks No. 135 out of 820. SHU’s communications program ranks No. 3 in Connecticut.

Together, the 2027 Niche results underscore the strength of the Sacred Heart student experience—a welcoming campus community where students are supported, engaged, and prepared for what comes next.