NGU Named a Top Private School in SC
Posted on: September 22, 2026
Tigerville, SC —North Greenville University has been recognized as a top five private school in South Carolina, according to a recent report from U.S. News and World Report.
Ranking No. 31 among all regional universities in the south in the “Top Private Colleges” category, NGU earned the No. 4 ranking in the state.
“North Greenville University continues to be a place where students are transformed to serve,” said NGU President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “We are committed to our mission, and these recognitions reflect the emphasis we place on academic excellence at NGU. Our graduates are prepared to carry out their calling here in South Carolina and across the globe.
NGU also earned recognition as a Best Value School (No. 6 in South Carolina), a Top Performer on Social Mobility (No. 8 in SC), and Best Regional Universities in the South (No. 10 in SC).
Total enrollment continues to remain strong at NGU, with more than 2,200 students enrolled this fall.
NGU Online programs are meeting needs within the market, especially within the education sector, as enrollment in online programs has increased incrementally each of the past five years.
As students seek more options for their careers, NGU Vice President for Enrollment and Marketing/Communication Chad Peters said offering strong online programs will remain a priority.
“We are eager to strengthen our online programs due to the fact the online modality provides flexibility for students who have busy schedules due to work and family obligations,” Peters said. “Our programs are distinguished by our excellent professors known for their expertise and practical experience, who help carry out NGU’s mission every day.”
Two of NGU’s online programs, elementary educational studies and early childhood educational studies, have seen particular success meeting needs related to the teacher shortage in South Carolina.
“In a time when the teacher shortage continues to impact our state, we are grateful for the opportunity to prepare caring, knowledgeable, and Christ-centered educators who are ready to make a lasting difference in the lives of their students,” said Dr. Constance Wright, dean of NGU’s College of Education. “We are proud of the graduates we send into South Carolina classrooms, and we consistently hear from school leaders about the quality, professionalism, and readiness of our teacher candidates.”
According to Niche, NGU ranks as the No. 3 college in South Carolina for education, trailing only Clemson University and the University of South Carolina in the category.
“Many of our students are balancing full-time jobs, families, and other responsibilities while pursuing their degree,” said Dr. Lori Vinson, Director of NGU’s online educational studies programs. “The flexibility of the online format allows students to continue meeting those responsibilities while still receiving the personal support and meaningful learning experiences that prepare them for their next step. We want students to know that earning a degree and pursuing a new calling in education is possible, even when life does not fit the traditional college schedule.”
NGU’s College of Health Sciences saw a 3 percent boost year over year, with the continued success in the Master of Arts in Biomedical Sciences (MABS), and addition of the Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc).
“The NGU PA program in the T. Walter & Christine M. Brashier College of Health Sciences has established a strong tradition of excellence in preparing compassionate and highly skilled healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Jordan Hairr, who serves as dean of the Brashier College of Health Sciences. “The MABS and DMSc programs build upon that foundation by serving students preparing for careers in the health professions as well as experienced clinicians seeking to expand their knowledge, leadership, and practice.”
With six academic colleges, NGU offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in more than 120 areas of study.
