McNeese Earns National Recognition for 15th Consecutive Year 

For the 15th consecutive year, McNeese State University has received national recognition as one of the best regional universities in the South by U.S. News and World Report.

In the just released 2026 edition of “Best Colleges,” McNeese is also ranked No. 40 among the Top Public Schools in the southern region – one of five Louisiana institutions to make the Top 50.

In addition, McNeese’s undergraduate degree in teaching tied for 18th in the South regional rankings among the Top 80 Best Undergraduate Teaching programs.

Using a wide range of data sources, U.S. News analysts and editors calculated more than 80 Best Colleges rankings, all with the intent of enabling students and their families to identify colleges that best meet their needs. The rankings highlight colleges that excel in such areas as value, social mobility, teaching, veterans’ needs and in select academic disciplines.

This fall, McNeese had its largest enrollment increase in more than 22 years, welcomed its largest first-time freshman class in many years and filled its residence halls to capacity.

“We will continue to build on this momentum we have achieved,” said Dr. Wade Rousse, McNeese president. “This consistent ranking once again validates the hard work and achievements of our faculty and staff in showcasing McNeese’s vibrant campus community, diverse programs and strong academic reputation and making McNeese the first choice of students seeking a university that prepares them for successful careers.”

McNeese continues to earn state and national recognition for faculty and student achievements, including exceptional licensure exam pass rates, admission to medical and professional schools and outstanding career return on investment.

Looking ahead, the university will open its new student union at the end of 2025. The modern facility will feature study and meeting areas, a ballroom for events and a new cafeteria.

The 2020 hurricanes destroyed the McNeese bookstore building and the Navarre Stadium press box and the doors finally opened for both this year. The new Team Store carrying the latest Cowboy merchandise opened in the spring to Cowboy fans, customers, students and faculty, while the new $32 million state-of-the-art press box opened for the kickoff of the 2025 football season.

A $2.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education will allow the university to provide mentoring from upper classmen to first-year students that will improve student retention through the First-Year Experience program and academic tutoring through the Center for Learning and Student Success.

McNeese has also recently been named a Purple Heart University by the Military Order of the Purple Heart. The designation is a formal acknowledgment of the institution’s commitment to the veteran community that includes all veterans and military personnel.