Top of the Charts

We have a history of blazing trails—and it shows in our 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings. Dominican was recognized in the Top 15 out of nearly 160 Regional Midwest Universities and named #1 in the state in several subcategories.

#1 Performer on Social Mobility in Illinois

Rather than perpetuating educational attainment gaps in our society, we have invested for years in the kinds of experiences and wraparound support that ensure all students have the same opportunity to graduate with purpose, earning us recognition as the #1 top performer in social mobility in Illinois and #2 in the Midwest. We are committed to helping students from underserved backgrounds not only find their calling—but a career path. Within a year of graduation, 95% of Dominican alumnae/i are employed and 20% are attending graduate school.

 

A student is seated at Dominican University's Commncement ceremony. The student's back is to the camera. The student's graduation cap is decorated with flowers and the words Some Day is Today.

#1 Most Innovative School in Illinois

State-of-the-art technology, engaging new learning spaces and a cutting-edge curriculum are just a few of the reasons Dominican was named the most innovative school in Illinois. From virtual reality simulations in our nursing classrooms to a podcast studio in our Learning Commons, we ensure you don’t wait until after graduation to put new skills into practice. 

Dominican University students using virtual reality headsets in a classroom.

#1 Best Value in the Midwest

We’re proud to be No. 1 in the Midwest on the publication’s “Best Value Schools” list, a category that closely examines academic quality and average net cost of attendance. We believe finances shouldn’t stand in the way of helping you find your purpose. Through scholarships and other financial aid, we’ll work with you and your family to make the cost of a high-impact private school education manageable.

 

More Than Just Numbers

Behind each of our rankings is a story—of students and professors partnering on discoveries. Of graduates innovating in careers of critical need. Of a community building a more just and humane world. Whether you’re the first in your family to go to college, or the first to make a big discovery or break a barrier in your chosen field, we’ll be there to empower you. Join us.