Southern Arkansas University is proud to announce that it has once again been recognized as the #1 Best Small Public College in Arkansas by Niche.com, marking the second consecutive year SAU has received this top honor. The University also maintained its strong standing as the #2 Top Public University in Arkansas, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for students seeking academic excellence in a supportive, close-knit community.
This national recognition comes as SAU adds 51 more students to its undergraduate enrollment as it works to reach its goal of 3,200 students with a vibrant mix of continuing students, first-time students, transfers, and concurrent enrollments, with its focus on promoting its dynamic academics and students’ experiences as the Best Small Public College in Arkansas.
“We are thrilled to again be named the #1 Best Small Public College in Arkansas,” said Dr. Bruno Hicks, president of SAU. “This honor affirms the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students who work tirelessly to create a vibrant learning environment. Combined with the growth of our undergraduate enrollment, this recognition highlights the momentum and strength of the SAU community.”
Niche’s national rankings are based on a rigorous analysis of key factors including academics, affordability, student satisfaction, and campus life. SAU’s recognition places it among the top 15% of nearly 1,000 small public colleges nationwide.
The University’s emphasis on student success is also evident in programs like Next Step Guarantee, where 564 students enrolled this fall and 138 reported that the program influenced their decision to attend SAU. These initiatives help ensure that students not only earn degrees but also graduate prepared for meaningful careers, graduate school, or other career-related opportunities.
As anticipated, SAU experienced a decline in graduate enrollment, primarily among international students — a trend seen nationwide. The University is responding by expanding its online graduate offerings and pursuing new programs that align with Arkansas’ workforce needs.
Additionally, SAU continues to advance its academic excellence through initiatives such as the ABET accreditation process for engineering programs and the 2025 NCLEX-RN first-time nursing licensure exam candidates achieved a 100% pass rate.
“These rankings and the continued growth in undergraduate enrollment showcase the positive trajectory of SAU,” Dr. Hicks said. “We are proud to be recognized among the best in Arkansas and the nation, and we remain dedicated to providing students with an exceptional education in a supportive community.”
For more information on the Niche.com 2026 Best College rankings, visit www.niche.com/colleges/rankings.
About SAU:
SAU, located in Magnolia, Arkansas, provides students with a complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to fit the needs of career and professional trends of today. As part of this commitment, SAU proudly offers the Next Step Guarantee program, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources, career guidance, and support to transition successfully from college to their chosen careers or graduate studies. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.
