College Raptor, Citizens Bank’s college planning platform, has included Waynesburg University on its 2026 list of “Top Hidden Gem Colleges in the Mid-East United States.”
The Hidden Gems rankings spotlight schools that combine excellence with attainability, typically those with fewer than 7,000 undergraduate students, fewer than 5,000 applications annually and five or more unique majors. According to their methodology, the Hidden Gems list highlights lesser-known schools that are smaller in size, maintain a more accessible acceptance rate and consistently deliver strong academic outcomes.
“We’re at a turning point in how students and families approach college decisions,” said William Staib, Co-Founder and President of College Raptor, via press release. “It’s no longer just about getting in; it’s about finding great schools that families can afford and where students will thrive.
“‘The Hidden Gems’ lists and the Citizens Student Hub were built with that purpose: to give students and families insights and personalized support to navigate this journey with clarity and confidence.”
Waynesburg was one of 32 Pennsylvania colleges included in the rankings.
“This recognition affirms our mission to provide a high-quality, Christian education that remains within reach for students and families,” said Waynesburg University President Douglas G. Lee. “We are proud to see Waynesburg’s value and outcomes continue to be acknowledged nationally.”
About College Raptor
The full methodology of College Raptor’s rankings is outlined here. College Raptor’s annual Hidden Gem research complements its annual “Best College” rankings. When used with College Raptor’s College Match Tool, these lists empower students and families to curate their own best colleges lists based on unique campus preferences, academic performance and goals, as well as financial circumstances.
More than 35 million students and families have used College Raptor to find cost-effective, academically appropriate college options that prepare them for future careers. For more information, visit CollegeRaptor.com.
About Waynesburg University
Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University’s Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.
