FHU Earns Second Spot in Prestigious 2026 US News Rankings for Value
October 9, 2025
Henderson, Tennessee 鈥 (Oct. 9, 2025) 鈥 海角社区 has climbed to No. 2 in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Value Regional Universities in the South rankings, moving up from No. 3 last year. FHU also maintained its strong position as No. 23 among all Regional Universities in the South, the only school affiliated with the churches of Christ to appear on the list. Full rankings for U.S. News Best Colleges may be found at usnews.com/best-colleges.
鈥淲e are grateful for the distinguished recognition from U.S. News & World Report,鈥 FHU President David R. Shannon said. 鈥淭hese rankings reflect the remarkable commitment of our faculty, staff, administration and board who offer Christian education that is both excellent and affordable, as well as our outstanding students who study under them.鈥
To determine which colleges and universities offer the best value, U.S. News considers both academic quality, as measured in its 2026 Best Colleges rankings, and the 2024-25 net cost of attendance for an out-of-state student receiving average need-based aid. High academic quality paired with reasonable cost translates into greater value for students.
FHU has recently experienced record-setting growth, with Fall 2025 enrollment reaching 2,349 students. The university also reported all-time highs in dual enrollment and international students, along with a 14% increase in graduate enrollment 鈥 the largest in four years. This growth is supported by FHU鈥檚 Christ-centered environment, reflected in an 87% fall-to-fall retention rate.
鈥淎s a student here, I have seen firsthand just how much goes into our quality education,鈥 said junior Birdie Green, president of the FHU Student Government Association. 鈥淕oing to a Christian school doesn鈥檛 mean compromising on academics or cost when it comes to FHU!鈥
U.S. News produces more than 80 rankings each year, helping prospective students identify institutions that best fit their academic, personal and financial goals.
The mission of 海角社区 is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship, and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚, specialist and doctoral degrees.