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Bellarmine University has been named the best university in Kentucky by WalletHub in its newly released 2026 rankings of the nation’s best universities. The rankings evaluate nearly 800 institutions nationwide based on factors including student success, affordability, and long-term career outcomes.

Among all institutions with graduate-level programs, Bellarmine is ranked as the top university in the Commonwealth of Kentucky and #264 nationally. In WalletHub’s broader ranking of all colleges and universities – which includes smaller institutions that focus on undergraduate degrees – Bellarmine ranks #2 among all Kentucky institutions and #316 nationally. 

“Bellarmine is a consistent presence on lists of the nation’s top universities. These rankings affirm what our students and alumni already know – Bellarmine provides one of the strongest returns on investment in higher education,” said Dr. Susan M. Donovan, Bellarmine’s president. “We are proud to be recognized once again for delivering on our promise of access, affordability, and opportunity in the Catholic higher education tradition.” 

WalletHub's annual rankings evaluate institutions across seven dimensions: student selectivity, affordability, faculty resources, campus safety, campus experience, educational outcomes, and career outcomes. 

Bellarmine earned its strongest scores in career outcomes, campus safety, and affordability – all areas that directly reflect the university’s strategic focus on personalized success and affordability. Among ranked Kentucky institutions, Bellarmine had the highest rank for career outcomes. 

According to the university’s most recent outcomes data, 99% of Bellarmine graduates are employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation, a rate that is 16% higher than the average for all colleges and universities. Over a lifetime, a Bellarmine degree generates a return on investment of $1.93 million, significantly exceeding averages for both public and private institutions in the state. 

Bellarmine is also one of just 16% of U.S. institutions to receive the “Opportunity College” classification for its success in blending higher levels of college access with higher earnings after graduation – a distinction that recognizes the university’s success in advancing economic mobility through education. 

The WalletHub rankings continue a a strong year of momentum for Bellarmine, including its largest and most diverse incoming class in nearly a decade, the launch of a new comprehensive fundraising campaign, and increased enrollment in high-demand graduate programs.