Canisius a "College of Distinction"

September 22, 2022
College of Distinction

BUFFALO, NY – Canisius University is proud to announce that it has been named a 2022-23 “College of Distinction” by the national publication for college-bound students. Canisius was recognized for its exemplary commitment in four key areas:

Engaged Students – Students have the opportunity to take an active part in their own learning through common intellectual experiences, undergraduate research, and diversity and global learning;

Great Teaching – Students have meaningful interactions with faculty in first-year experiences, writing-intensive courses, and collaborative assignments and projects;

Vibrant Community – The institution offers opportunities, such as community-based learning and living-learning communities, so that students may connect with peers outside the classroom as part of providing a well-rounded college experience; and

Successful Outcomes – The undergraduate experience works cohesively to prepare students to not only graduate but to succeed long beyond.  Some of these experiences may include internships and capstone courses and projects.

In addition to this overall undergraduate recognition, Canisius University was named a “Catholic College of Distinction.”  This distinction recognizes schools that prepare both the hearts and minds of students for success.  It also acknowledges the unique benefits that Catholic institutions provide, such as small class sizes and more personal attention to students.

Canisius University was also included among a 2022-23 cohort of institutions named as “Education Colleges of Distinction.” The honor recognizes a school’s commitment to nurturing and supporting future educators in the following distinct qualities:

Stability - These programs have reputations for quality and success, and students know that their degrees will be respected and desired by future employers. Institutions who have earned the education badge have the highest accreditations and have been awarding teaching degrees for at least 10 years.

Multidisciplinary Exposure - Whether childhood, elementary, secondary or special education, prospective students know these institutions offer options to explore at these schools. These well-rounded programs also allow students to earn a specialization to further define and hone their skill set.

Practical Experience - These colleges and universities go beyond the required number of hours of student teaching. They push students to get practical experience as early and often as possible so they may be prepared and confident when they step into their first classroom.

Non-education Specialization - These programs encourage students to think and learn outside the box. Students can minor or specialize in a different discipline to round out their education and enhance their teaching.

Dedicated Advising and Counseling - The path to a teaching degree can be complex and overwhelming at times. Schools that have earned the Education badge have demonstrated a commitment to supporting students with excellent counselors and advisors.

High-Impact Practices - While all Colleges of Distinction are recognized for their high-impact practices, those with the Education badge ensure that their programs incorporate relevant and focused high-impact practices, including first-year seminars, service-learning among area schools, and collaborative projects.

Industry Connection - Students are able to forge connections for their career through internships, networking events, and alumni programs.

The Colleges of Distinction guidebook is published annually to assist high school students and parents identify colleges that suit individual personalities and career objectives. Colleges and universities are nominated as Colleges of Distinction by high school college counselors.  Publishers then utilize qualitative and quantitative information about those schools, and conduct interviews and college visits to make their final determinations.   

Canisius University is one of 27 Catholic, Jesuit colleges in the nation and the premier private college in Western New York.  Canisius prepares leaders – intelligent, caring, faithful individuals – able to promote excellence in their professions, their communities and their service to humanity.