MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University is among only four public institutions in the state named to the Colleges of Distinction 2025-26 “Best Colleges in the U.S.”

MTSU also made several of the organization’s best-of lists, including Best in Tennessee, Best Public Institutions, Business, Education, Nursing, Most Affordable, Career Development and Military Support.

“We are pleased that our institution’s leadership and devotion to student success continues to earn national recognition,” said MTSU President Sidney A. McPhee. 

The recognition is based on Colleges of Distinction’s valuating criteria, which it calls the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community, and Successful Outcomes.

Through research and interviews, the organization identifies institutions that make a meaningful impact on students’ lives, not just ones that fight their way to the top of rankings lists, said Tyson Schritter, chief operating officer at Colleges of Distinction.

“MTSU has crafted a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning,” Schritter said. “Its programs reflect the kind of innovation and intentionality that prepare students for life after graduation.”

Nominations for the honor comes from high school guidance counselors, college administrators and research by its selection team, Schritter said.

To find out more about MTSUs recognition, go to https://collegesofdistinction.com/best-colleges-of-distinction/.

— Andrew Oppmann (Andrew.Oppmann@mtsu.edu)