Rankings, Awards & Distinctions

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Recognizing Excellence: Celebrating Westfield State's Ranking Achievements

At Westfield State, we have many things to be proud of. Our commitment to excellence in education has been recognized through various rankings and accolades. For instance, we are honored to be ranked #25 among the “Best Colleges in Massachusetts,” credited for offering top-notch programs across a variety of subjects. Our master’s program in elementary education is ranked #7, showcasing our dedication to training future educators. Additionally, our undergraduate programs in history (#14), business administration (#21), and criminal justice (#27) have also been recognized for their exceptional quality. Additional rankings can be found below.

A College of Distinction

Westfield State University has been named a College of Distinction for the 2024-2025 academic year, marking its commitment to providing a high-quality undergraduate education that focuses on hands-on learning, strong student-teacher relationships, a vibrant campus life, and successful outcomes. 

Westfield State University Receives National Acclaim as a 2024-2025 College of Distinction

Colleges of Distinction 2024-2025 Awards

Best College Food in the Massachusetts State College System

Westfield State has received recognition for best college food in the Massachusetts state college system, as ranked by NICHE in 2024.

2024 Best College Food in Massachusetts

Learn more about WSU Dining

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Affordability

Westfield State University has earned recognition as one of the most affordable colleges in Massachusetts, according to the College Affordability Guide 2024 rankings.

2024 Most Affordable Colleges in Massachusetts

View our Cost & Aid at a Glance

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Excellence in Academic Programs

Westfield State University stands out in many areas according to College Factual's 2022 rankings. Programs like social work and history (education) are #1 for best value in graduate studies. Undergraduate programs in health sciences and sociology also earn the #1 spot for best value. Plus, our criminal justice program ranks #10 nationwide. These rankings show that Westfield State is dedicated to providing top-notch education and helping students succeed.

Westfield State recognized by 2022 College Factual among ‘Best Colleges’ rankings for excellence of academic programs

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Best Online Bachelor's Programs

Westfield State University is ranked among the top 100 colleges in the country offering online bachelor’s programs, according to U.S. News & World Report. In the publication’s “2022 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs” ranking, released Jan. 25, 2022, the University is tied for #87 overall and is the only institution among its peer comprehensive Massachusetts state universities among 272 nationwide to be ranked and scored.

Westfield State University ranked among top 100 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs rankings

Learn more about our online degrees

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Top Public Universities in U.S.

Westfield State University ranks among Massachusetts' top public universities in the 2022 U.S. News & World Report's "Best Colleges" list. It's tied as the highest-ranking public university in New England for the second consecutive year and is positioned at 85th among 171 institutions in the "Regional Universities–North" category, jumping five spots from last year. Additionally, it's ranked #24 in the "Top Public Schools" list and 72nd in "Best Value Schools" among regional universities, surpassing its peer Massachusetts state universities.

Westfield State University among top public universities in U.S. News & World Report’s college rankings

Campus in the Fall

Celebrating Westfield State's Additional Distinctions

At Westfield State, our dedication to excellence extends beyond academic rankings. We take pride in our numerous distinctions that highlight our commitment to student success and community engagement:

  • One of the highest six-year graduation rates among the Massachusetts universities.
  • One of the largest producers of new teachers among the Massachusetts state universities.
  • Commonwealth Honors Program.
  • LEAD Scholars Program (Formerly known as the Urban Education Program)
  • Only public university in New England offering a Bachelor of Science in Regional Planning.
  • Only 4-year state institution west of Boston to offer a BFA in Graphic Design.
  • Highest percentage of undergraduate students who choose to live on campus among the state universities.
  • One of the largest employers in the City of Westfield.
  • Only four-year public university in “New England’s Knowledge Corridor."
  • Participant in New England Regional Program for tuition adjustment for students from adjacent states.
  • Designated as a “Top Military-Friendly College” by Advanced Military Education Magazine.
  • Designated as a military-friendly school by Victory Media.