In a higher education landscape often dominated by rankings and test scores, Wittenberg has been recognized for what matters most: a transformative undergraduate experience. For delivering that experience, the University has been named a College of Distinction for the 2025-2026 academic year, a prestigious designation awarded to schools whose commitment to engaged, experiential education sets them apart.
Colleges of Distinction (CoD) annually recognizes the hundreds of teaching-centered colleges that comprise the fabric of the American educational system, going beyond the traditional ranking models that assess colleges based on historic prestige, selectivity, athletic prowess, and size of endowment. Instead, CoD chooses schools that deliver well on “four distinctions” – engaged students, great teaching, vibrant communities, and successful outcomes. Those institutions named Colleges of Distinction are nominated by graduates, school faculty and administrators, current students, and even members of the CoD team.
"We are honored to receive this national recognition from Colleges of Distinction," said Wittenberg University President Christian M. M. Brady, DPhil (Oxon.). “For 180 years, we have provided paths for students to discern their callings, develop the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career, and prepare for a purposeful and fulfilling life – all of which combine to form what we term the ‘Wittenberg Way.’ Our education is also grounded in the essential skills of critical thinking, reason, reflection, and broad-based academic preparation – the same skills praised by Colleges of Distinction.”
To be designated a “college of distinction,” a school’s curriculum must emphasize such core competencies as writing, oral skills, research, critical thinking, and global perspectives. They must also offer dynamic out-of-classroom learning and study abroad programs. Additionally, using a range of courses designed to engage and inspire, Wittenberg’s award-winning professors push students’ thinking beyond what is comfortable and into what is important.
One such program that highlights such focus and reflection is Wittenberg’s annual FIRE Week, where students have a chance to engage in-depth with faculty, staff, and other students on a wide range of topics. This past spring, about 200 students participated in the highly popular program, taking part in opportunities to study STEM in the Smoky Mountains, business in Chicago, criminal justice in Clark County, Ohio, history and culture along the Mississippi River, film and literary inspiration in Scotland, public art and community in Ohio, jazz, ghosts, gumbo and more in New Orleans, and nature's power in nearby recreational areas, in addition to participating in service projects in Costa Rica and building homes with the Fuller Center for Housing in Georgia.
“Wittenberg has crafted a campus culture where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “Its programs reflect the kind of innovation and intentionality that prepare students for life after graduation. We’ve never believed in ranking schools. Our goal is to celebrate institutions that help students find their place, their purpose, and their potential. Wittenberg stands out for creating an environment where students thrive not just academically, but as whole people.”
Schools are recognized as Colleges of Distinction after a process of extensive research and interviewing to ensure they are aligned with the organization’s mission. The methodology for selection includes a mix of qualitative and quantitative information gleaned from expert college presidents, provosts, deans, and administrators around the country. Nearly 400 CoD institutions ensure that each student is seen as a member of the community throughout a full range of academic offerings. Searching for a college is a complex, often emotional process. By pre-vetting hundreds of schools, Colleges of Distinction help students come to know a range of colleges while helping them understand what they want in a college education.
Unlike rankings that focus on prestige-driven metrics, Colleges of Distinction highlights schools that champion educational impact – everything from first-year seminars and collaborative projects to undergraduate research, global learning, and internships. Wittenberg’s inclusion is a result of its commitment to these high-impact practices and the personalized support it offers students throughout their college journey.
At Wittenberg, students benefit from small class sizes, enviable collaborative research with professors, and personal attention throughout their time on campus. The University’s Connections Curriculum also offers a breadth of coursework across the arts and sciences, depth of study in a major, and experiences that allow students to test out different careers and connect with professionals in Wittenberg’s vibrant, 25,000+ strong alumni base. After graduation, students enjoy a 97 percent success rate, securing meaningful employment or graduate school admission.
Founded in 1845, Wittenberg has consistently developed individuals’ capacity to think, read, and communicate with precision, understanding, and imagination. Dedicated to active, engaged learning in the core disciplines of the arts and sciences and in pre-professional education grounded in the liberal arts, the University is known for the quality of its faculty and their teaching. In fact, Wittenberg has more Ohio Professors of the Year than any four-year institution in the state and has been recognized nationally for excellence in community service, sustainability, and intercollegiate athletics.
Located among the beautiful rolling hills and hollows of Springfield, Ohio, Wittenberg offers more than 60 majors, minors, and special programs, the COMPASS: Sweet Success Center, service and study options close to home and abroad, a strong athletics tradition, and successful career preparation. Learn more about how Wittenberg changes lives at www.wittenberg.edu.
To view Wittenberg’s profile, or learn more about other programs receiving recognition at the University, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
About Colleges of Distinction
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to recognizing schools across the United States for their exceptional contributions to higher education. Member institutions within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their unwavering focus on providing an outstanding undergraduate experience. Their website offers dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and valuable resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to discover how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
