CHARLOTTE, N.C. — September 22, 2026 – Johnson & Wales University’s Charlotte Campus maintained its strong position of number 11 in the “Best Value: Regional Colleges, South” ranking, according to the latest report from U.S. News & World Report.  

“We are pleased to see Johnson & Wales University recognized in this year’s U.S. News & World Report rankings,” said Chancellor Mim Runey, LP.D. “This recognition reflects the university’s commitment to innovation, adapting to the needs of students and industry while preparing graduates to lead in a rapidly changing world.” 

The “best value” ranking reflects the university’s commitment to providing greater access and affordability to cutting-edge, industry-responsive education. This past year, the university expanded the JWU Pledge, an initiative that provides up to 100 percent of tuition for qualifying students and families from all U.S. states and territories.

Building on its commitment to innovation, this fall JWU Charlotte welcomed its first cohort into the three-year bachelor’s degree in hospitality management program. As the first higher education institution in the Southeast to offer an in-person, three-year bachelor’s degree, JWU is providing students with a distinctive pathway to earn their degree faster and enter the workforce sooner. 

In addition to the JWU Charlotte Campus being ranked number 11 in “Best Value: Regional Colleges, South, it was also ranked in the following categories:  

• Regional Colleges, South: 39 (tied) 
• Top Private Schools: Regional Colleges, South: 30 (tied)  

The JWU Providence Campus advanced to number six in the “Most Innovative: Regional Universities, North” ranking, up one spot from last year. 

About JWU 

Founded in 1914, Johnson & Wales University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 8,000 graduate, undergraduate and online students at its campuses in Providence, Rhode Island and Charlotte, North Carolina. An innovative educational leader, the university offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in arts and sciences, business, food innovation, hospitality, nutrition, and health and wellness. It also offers undergraduate programs in culinary arts, dietetics and design. JWU’s unique model provides students with the personalized attention, academic expertise and industry connections that inspire professional success and personal growth. The time students spend at JWU is nothing short of transformative, as demonstrated by career outcomes, expected earnings and economic mobility rankings. The university’s impact is global, with alumni in 125 countries pursuing careers worldwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Jill Smith, Director of Communications & Media Relations  
(O) 980-598-1004, (C) 704-340-3273