U.S. News & World Report, LinkedIn and Forbes recognize Hampton among leading private universities and HBCUs
Hampton, Va. (Sept. 24, 2026) – Hampton University has earned top national recognition from U.S. News & World Report, LinkedIn and Forbes, with new rankings highlighting the University’s academic strength, student experience and graduates’ long-term career success.
The recognitions come during a period of continued academic and research growth at Hampton, a newly classified Carnegie-classified R2 research university. Collectively, the rankings highlight Hampton’s ability to provide a rigorous education while preparing students to lead and succeed well beyond graduation.
“Hampton’s continued recognition on a national scale reflects the strength of our academic community and our commitment to the #1 Student Experience in America,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams ’83. “Our students come to Hampton to be challenged, supported and prepared to lead. These results demonstrate the lasting value of that experience and the extraordinary work of our faculty, staff, students and alumni.”
Hampton also improved its position in the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings compared with 2025, rising from the number seven place to six. This climb adds to the University’s momentum as it expands academic programs, strengthens its faculty and advances research across disciplines.
Excellence in a Changing Higher Education Landscape
As colleges and universities nationwide respond to changing student expectations, workforce demands and advances in technology, Hampton is investing in the areas that will shape the future of higher education and the economy.
The University continues to expand its academic and research enterprise while strengthening opportunities that connect classroom learning with careers, leadership and service. That work builds on Hampton’s historic mission while positioning students for success in an increasingly competitive global environment.
LinkedIn’s recognition is particularly focused on outcomes after graduation. Its Top Colleges methodology examines alumni career outcomes, including how quickly graduates secure full-time employment and advance into senior-level positions.
Hampton’s Impact by the Numbers
- No. 1 Private School in Virginia — U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings
- No. 4 HBCU for Long-Term Career Success — LinkedIn Top Colleges
- No. 5 Private HBCU — Forbes HBCU Rankings
- No. 6 HBCU (tie) — U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings
- No. 6 Private School in the South — U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings
The national recognition reflects more than Hampton’s standing among its peers. It points to the outcomes that matter most to students and families: a strong academic foundation, meaningful opportunities, preparation for careers and graduate study, and a network that continues to create value throughout a graduate’s professional life.
Founded in 1868, Hampton’s legacy has long been defined by academic excellence, leadership and service. Today, the University is building on that foundation through expanded research, innovation and academic opportunities designed to prepare world-ready leaders of character and consequence.
View the full rankings:
U.S. News & World Report Best HBCUs Rankings
About Hampton University
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is one of the nation’s strongest Historically Black Colleges and Universities and a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution. For more than 150 years, Hampton has prepared world-ready leaders of character and consequence through a distinctive educational experience grounded in academic excellence, leadership, innovation, and service.
Home to students from 44 states and 32 countries and territories, the University is nationally recognized for groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer research, cybersecurity, marine and environmental science, and other disciplines that address society’s most pressing challenges. With an annual economic impact of $515 million across the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton continues to advance discovery, strengthen communities, and prepare graduates to lead with purpose in an increasingly interconnected world. Learn more at www.hamptonu.edu.
