SHU Earns National Recognition in Princeton Review's 2027 Rankings

Sacred Heart recognized among the nation's best residence halls, student support, community engagement, career services, and campus life

Key Highlights

• Sacred Heart University earned national recognition in multiple categories in The Princeton Review’s Best 392 Colleges: 2027 Edition
• The rankings are based on student surveys and reflect the quality of SHU’s academic, residential, and campus experiences
• SHU earned three top 10 rankings: No. 7 for intramural sports and No. 10 for both best college dorms and Greek life

Sacred Heart University has once again earned national recognition across multiple categories in The Princeton Review’s Best 392 Colleges: 2027 Edition. This includes top 10 ranking placements for residence halls, intramural sports, and fraternity & sorority life, along with strong national rankings for student support, community engagement, career services, and campus dining.

The annual rankings are based on student survey data collected by The Princeton Review and highlight colleges and universities that stand out for the quality of the student experience. This year’s results reflect Sacred Heart’s continued commitment to fostering a campus environment where students are supported academically, personally, and professionally.

SHU’s Prestigious Placement

Comfortable Residence Halls, Nationally Recognized

SHU ranks No. 10 in the nation for “Best College Dorms,” reflecting the University’s investment in modern residence halls that foster connection, community, and a strong sense of belonging. From first-year housing to upper-class living options, SHU’s residential experience helps students feel at home from day one.

Launch Your Career

SHU ranks among the top 25 colleges in the nation for “Best Career Services,” highlighting the University's commitment to preparing students for success after graduation. The recognition aligns with SHU's 99% career outcomes rate, with graduates employed or enrolled in graduate school within one year of earning their degree.

Top 15 in the Nation for Student Support

Sacred Heart ranks No. 11 nationally for “Best Student Support and Counseling Services,” recognizing the University's comprehensive approach to student well-being. Through personalized support, wellness resources, and a student-centered community, SHU helps students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Nationally Ranked Theatre Arts Program

SHU’s Theatre Arts program is ranked top 25 in the nation for “Best College Theatre.”  Students gain hands-on experience both on stage and behind the scenes while developing their craft in a collaborative environment that encourages creativity, artistic expression, and professional growth.

Students Who Give Back

SHU ranks No. 11 nationally for “Students Most Engaged in Community Service,” reflecting a campus culture rooted in service and social responsibility. Through volunteerism, civic engagement, and community partnerships, students make meaningful contributions locally and beyond.

Top 15 for Campus Dining

Sacred Heart ranks No. 14 nationally for “Best Campus Food,” recognizing a dining program that offers students a wide variety of high-quality options across campus. The ranking reflects SHU’s continued investment in a dining experience that brings students together while meeting a range of tastes and dietary needs.

A Thriving Fraternity & Sorority Community

SHU ranks No. 10 nationally for “Lots of Greek Life,” reflecting the strong sense of community, leadership, and involvement found within the University's fraternity and sorority organizations. These student-led groups create opportunities for service, connection, and personal growth.

Nationally Recognized Student Newspaper

The Spectrum, SHU’s student-run newspaper, ranks No. 14 in the nation for “Best College Newspaper.” The publication provides aspiring journalists, writers, photographers, and editors with valuable hands-on experience while serving as a trusted voice for the campus community.

A Campus Where Everyone Plays

SHU ranks No. 7 nationally for intramural sports, underscoring the University's vibrant campus life and commitment to student engagement. With opportunities to compete, stay active, and connect with classmates, intramurals offer something for students of all interests and skill levels.

Strong Town-Gown Relations

Sacred Heart ranks No. 16 nationally for “Town-Gown Relations,” highlighting the University's strong partnership with the surrounding community. From service initiatives and educational partnerships to local events and volunteer opportunities, SHU students and employees remain actively engaged throughout the region.

“These rankings reflect what Sacred Heart is all about; a place where students are encouraged and supported as they grow personally, academically, and socially,” said SHU President John J. Petillo. “National recognition is meaningful, but it is especially gratifying when it comes directly from our students and reflects the experiences they are having.”

Student comments featured in Sacred Heart’s The Princeton Review profile reinforce many of the qualities recognized in this year’s rankings. Students praised SHU for creating opportunities to build friendships and connections, noting that the University “does a very good job in giving all students experiences to meet new people” and offers “fun events for first-year and current students.” They also highlighted hands-on learning through “interactive platforms, project-based learning, and service-learning projects,” as well as faculty members’ “real-world experience” and “passionate” approach to teaching. Together, those comments paint a picture of a campus community that students describe as both “filled with school spirit” and a “hold-the-door-open community.”