Azusa Pacific University achieved a historic placement in The Wall Street Journal’s 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S., as the top-ranked evangelical Christian university in California and the highest ranked institution in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). APU holds the No. 101 spot in the nation, positioned alongside premier universities such as Princeton (No. 1), Stanford (No. 3), and USC (No. 49). This marks the highest national ranking achieved by the university.
“This significant recognition by The Wall Street Journal affirms Azusa Pacific is a top Christian university in the nation with a clear track record of proven results,” said Adam J. Morris, PhD, president. “We provide our students with a transformative Christ-centered education that equips them to succeed as ethical and competent leaders in their chosen fields upon graduation. With strong marks in alumni earnings, social mobility, and character development, APU is a preferred choice for those seeking excellent academics, solid career preparation, a diverse and welcoming community, and opportunities to deepen their faith.”
In addition to the Best U.S. Colleges placement, APU also ranked high on the WSJ/College Pulse lists for Social Mobility (No. 29 nationally and No. 5 among private universities), Student Experience (No. 73), and Best Salaries (No. 161).
“We are honored by this national recognition of the extraordinary education provided by Azusa Pacific University faculty,” said Anita Fitzgerald Henck, PhD, provost. “The depth of student/faculty interaction in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical setting, in addition to global engagement and academic service learning, provides a truly holistic education. APU offers the best of academics, combined with Christian faith integration, and engagement with community partners at the undergraduate, masters, and doctoral level.”
The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse Best Colleges in the U.S. is the preeminent college ranking report which rates the top 500 colleges and universities in the country. Unlike other national rankings which prioritize admission rates and subjective criteria such as reputational rankings from opinions of leaders at other universities, WSJ’s methodology is more reflective of outcomes such as salary impact for graduates, years to pay off net price of tuition, graduation rate impact, social mobility, and student satisfaction. Other distinct factors include learning opportunities, preparation for career, character score, and diversity.
Azusa Pacific University, a top Christian higher education institution on the West Coast, equips students to become compassionate leaders who impact the world for Christ. APU offers 66 bachelor’s degrees, 40 master’s degrees, 32 certificates and credentials, and 9 doctoral programs to more than 6,500 students at the university’s main campus in Azusa, several regional locations across Southern California, and online. Learn more at apu.edu.