According to my own data gathered from over 48,000 of university websites from all around the world, I have determined that WordPress powers an estimated 10,400 of them (21%). This data also includes faculty sub-domains.
In a future post I will share unique data and statistics about the usage of WordPress in academia, but for now let’s look at some great university websites that are powered by WordPress.
Using the database mentioned above, I have manually sifted through ~1,000 of random university websites (powered by WordPress) and have picked the best looking ones. I came up with a list of 60 websites, which means that I was impressed only by 6% of the visited websites.
Please share your thoughts on your favorite websites in the comments section at the bottom of the post.
Note: just like in my previous post Education Website Footer Design Examples and Ideas, these websites are listed in a random order and are not sorted by any specific criteria.
And now let’s get on with it.
1. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
One of America’s Top Research Universities.
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee provides an affordable, world-class education to 27,000 students from 92 countries. Its 15 schools and colleges include Wisconsin’s only schools of architecture, freshwater sciences and public health. As one of the nation’s top research universities, UWM partners with leading companies in Wisconsin and beyond to advance knowledge, bring new discoveries to market and prepare students for work in a global economy. Eighty percent of our 185,000 alumni live and work in Wisconsin, further contributing to the state’s health, vibrancy and economic growth.
2. Vistula University
Vistula University was founded in 1992 as the second non-public university in Poland.
The Vistula Group of Universities is a blend of tradition and the most innovative trends in science. Our uniqueness is the practicality of our faculties. We closely cooperate with business and international organizations, and our professors are renowned authorities with hands-on experience.
3. Wheaton College Massachusetts
Wheaton guarantees that every student will have access to funding to participate in a professional or research-based internship before senior year.
We create possibilities for our students by offering a full range of studies in the arts, sciences, humanities, mathematics and social sciences. Our approach to the liberal arts emphasizes active learning in the classroom, on the campus and in the real world.
4. The King’s University
As one of the most affordable private colleges in the nation, TKU offers you the unique benefit of a quality Christian education from outstanding faculty for less than most private universities.
5. Boise State University
At Boise State you can choose from more than 200 areas of study, and you will have the chance to combine minors, certificates, internships, hands-on research, work opportunities — and more — to make your educational experience unique.
6. Kaunas University of Technology
KTU is a leading Lithuanian university providing a wide range of studies and closely cooperating with business.
The University provides studies of engineering, technologies, physical and social sciences, humanities and arts. The research groups working at KTU contribute to the global scientific knowledge by conducting cutting edge interdisciplinary research on the most important questions of current time.
7. Giessen School of Theology
Giessen School of Theology (Freie Theologische Hochschule) is a state-accredited evangelical seminary that offers a three-year B.A. and a two-year M.A. in theology.
8. Kanazawa University
As the leading university on the Sea of Japan coast, Kanazawa University has contributed greatly to Japanese higher education and academic research since it was founded in 1949.
9. Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción
10. University of Wisconsin System
The University of Wisconsin System is one of the largest systems of public higher education in the country, serving more than 170,000 students each year and employing approximately 39,000 faculty and staff statewide.
The UW System is made up of 13 four-year universities and 13 two-year branch campuses affiliated with seven of the four-year institutions. On July 1, 2018, the former UW-Extension joined with UW-Madison and UW System Administration. Together, these institutions are a tremendous academic, cultural, and economic resource for Wisconsin, the nation, and the world.
11. Indiana University School of Medicine
IU School of Medicine is the largest medical school in the US and is annually ranked among the top medical schools in the nation by US News & World Report.
The school offers high-quality medical education, access to leading medical research and rich campus life in nine Indiana cities, including rural and urban locations consistently recognized for livability.
12. Roseman University of Health Sciences
Founded in Henderson, Nevada in 1999, Roseman University of Health Sciences is a non-profit, private institution of higher learning training the next generation of undergraduate and graduate level health care professionals that serve, collaborate and set new standards in their communities and within their professions.
13. University of South Florida St. Petersburg
At USF St. Petersburg, students enjoy smaller classes. Professors who know you by name. Students conducting research on the undergraduate and graduate levels – side by side with professors. A setting that encourages creativity.
14. Brock University
Brock University is one of Canada’s top post-secondary institutions. Located in historic Niagara region, Brock offers all the benefits of a young and modern university in a safe, community-minded city with beautiful natural surroundings.
With more than 19,000 students in seven diverse Faculties, Brock University offers an academic experience that’s second to none. Our degree programs are designed with your future in mind. We focus on your career with co-op and service learning options that provide maximum exposure to your chosen field of study.
15. The Italian University for Design
16. University of Lynchburg
University of Lynchburg is a nationally recognized private university where students gain a greater heart for humanity and a mindset of individual growth. Here, thought-provoking learning ignites change in each individual, and the world.
University of Lynchburg faculty are outstanding scholars who are leaders in their disciplines. Of the 200 full-time faculty members, 77% are tenured or tenure track. The student-faculty ratio is 10:1, which allows for personal attention and student-faculty collaborative research.
17. Skagit Valley College
Skagit Valley College provides opportunities for students in pursuit of their educational and employment goals, while contributing to the economic and cultural enrichment of our communities.
18. Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private research university of extraordinary academics, distinctive offerings, and an undeniable spirit.
Founded in 1870, Syracuse University is a private, coeducational, research institution located in the heart of Central New York. Students can choose from more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs across Syracuse’s 13 academic units.
19. Georgia Southern University
Georgia Southern University is the state’s largest and most comprehensive center of higher education south of Atlanta.
With 141 degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, Georgia Southern has been designated a public Carnegie Doctoral/R2 institution and serves nearly 26,500 students from all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico as well as 102 nations.
20. Современная гуманитарная академия
Современная гуманитарная академия (Академия, СГА) является научно-образовательным центром, деятельность которого направлена на разработку новых научных подходов к проектированию инновационных систем массового образования на основе научных разработок своих исследовательских коллективов, ведущих изыскания в области эдукологии, психологии и социологии обучения, когнитивной нейрологии, роботизации интеллектуальных процессов и др.
21. Mays Business School – Texas A&M University
Mays Business School at Texas A&M University ranks among the top public business schools in the country for its programs and for faculty research.
With an enrollment of 6,400 students in Fall 2017, Mays is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB), one of the most prestigious credentials for schools of business.
22. University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida is a thriving preeminent research university located in metropolitan Orlando. With more than 68,000 students, UCF is one of the largest universities in the U.S.
In addition to its impressive size and strength, UCF is ranked as a best-value university by Kiplinger, as well as one of the nation’s most affordable colleges by Forbes. The university benefits from a diverse faculty and staff who create a welcoming environment and opportunities for all students to grow, learn and succeed.
23. Stanford University
Stanford University is one of the world’s leading research universities.
It is known for its entrepreneurial character, drawn from the legacy of its founders, Jane and Leland Stanford, and its relationship to Silicon Valley. Areas of excellence range from the humanities to social sciences to engineering and the sciences. Stanford is located in California’s Bay Area, one of the most intellectually dynamic and culturally diverse areas of the nation.
24. Washington State University
WSU is one of just 115 U.S. colleges and universities—out of 4,600+ public and private institutions—named among doctoral universities with the “highest research activity” in the Carnegie Classification (2016).
25. L.R. Scarborough College
L.R. Scarborough College, a Baptist liberal arts college, combines a classical curriculum with Christian orthodoxy to cultivate students with a biblical worldview and a globally focused vision for life and ministry.
26. Hochschule Fresenius
Founded in 1848 by Carl Remigius Fresenius, and with its roots in the Fresenius Chemical Laboratory, Hochschule Fresenius, University of Applied Sciences can look back on an over 165-year-old tradition in privately funded education in Germany. This makes it the oldest educational chemistry institute of its kind.
27. Office of Research – University of Florida
The University of Florida is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Top 10 public research universities in the United States.
Research at UF plays a significant role in advancing our fundamental understanding of the world in which we live, generating creative breakthroughs that lead to technologies with positive benefit, creating opportunities for economic growth in the state, and changing the trajectory of young people through education.
28. Friedrich-Alexander-Universität
FAU is the most innovative university in Germany.
According to the latest ranking from the media concern Reuters, the University is still at the top in Germany, and ranked at an excellent 31st position worldwide. This is a considerable improvement over last year.
29. Spring Arbor University
Since 1873, Spring Arbor University has helped students pursue wisdom by offering an education grounded in the Christian faith.
What began as a small elementary and secondary school in the late 1800’s has evolved into a top-tier, liberal arts, Christian university with more than 3,000 enrolled students.
30. Colorado School of Mines
Colorado School of Mines is known globally for the quality of its distinctive graduates, the success of its alumni and its unique expertise in topics related to earth, energy and the environment.
Mines produces industry-ready scientists and engineers known for their work ethic, problem-solving ability and teamwork focus. Mines graduates are in great demand by companies and government entities around the world and are involved in solving major technical and societal challenges of our times.
31. The University of Tennessee
The University of Tennessee is the state’s land-grant, higher education institution and preeminent public university.
The UT System’s delivery of education, discovery, outreach and public service contributes to the economic, social and environmental well-being of all Tennesseans.
32. University of Maine
Founded in 1865, the University of Maine is a land and sea grant institution, and the flagship campus of the University of Maine System.
The University of Maine offers a strong traditional education at an affordable price. UMaine is one of New England’s premier universities.
33. Unidad de Desarrollo Tecnológico (UDT)
The Technological Development Unit (UDT) of the Universidad de Concepción (UdeC) is an institute dedicated to science, technology and innovation in the field of bioeconomy.
34. The University of Alabama
As the state’s flagship university, The University of Alabama family has always focused on being the best. After all, we are The Capstone of Higher Education.
Founded in 1831 as the state’s first public college, The University of Alabama is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and service. We provide a creative, nurturing campus environment where our students can become the best individuals possible, learn from the best and brightest faculty, and make a positive difference in the community, the state and the world. You’ll like what you find here. Become part of The University of Alabama family.
35. Quest University Canada
Quest is unique. Its groundbreaking approach to postsecondary education began as an experiment. Now in its second decade, the university has made its mark, staking its claim as one of Canada’s important institutions of higher learning.
We are Canada’s first independent, not-for-profit, secular liberal arts and science university devoted entirely to excellence in undergraduate education.
36. Campbell University
Fueled by a higher calling, we provide a transformational learning experience that prepares students for servant leadership and equips them with skills and habits to make a difference in the lives of others.
37. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The nation’s first public university is at the heart of what’s next, preparing a diverse student body to become creators, explorers, innovators and leaders in North Carolina and throughout the world.
Carolina’s nationally recognized, innovative teaching, campus-wide spirit of inquiry and dedication to public service continue the legacy that began in 1795 when the University first opened its doors to students.
38. UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health
Welcome to the Gillings School of Global Public Health, the top public school of public health. Our mission is to improve public health, promote individual well-being and eliminate health inequities across North Carolina and around the world.
39. Curtin University
Curtin is an innovative, global university known for its high-impact research, strong industry partnerships and commitment to preparing students for jobs of the future.
40. Northwest Christian University
NCU provides a transformational educational experience that champions wisdom, faith and service, providing graduates with superb career preparation within a Christ-centered environment.
For more than 120 years students have been coming to Northwest Christian University to learn, grow, and lead. Our academic programs prepare you not only for graduate schools and careers, they are designed, in the liberal arts tradition, to develop critical thought. NCU has been ranked among the top comprehensive colleges in the West by U.S. News and World Report.
41. University of Washington
The UW is one of the world’s preeminent public universities. Ranked No. 14 in the world on the 2018 Academic Ranking of World Universities, the UW educates more than 54,000 students annually. We turn ideas into impact and transform lives and our world.
42. Uniwersytet Wrocławski
43. The Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)
UQAM is a dynamic, open, creative university with an international outreach. It is recognized for the originality and quality of its programs, its cutting-edge research, solidly grounded in social concerns, and its innovation in the arts.
44. Cairn University
Cairn University exists to educate students to serve Christ in the church, society, and the world as biblically minded, well-educated, and professionally competent men and women of character.
45. McMaster University
Founded in 1887, McMaster University is one of only four Canadian universities (and one of only two in Ontario) consistently ranked among the top 100 in the world by the major global ranking systems.
Home to more than 70 research centres and institutes, McMaster is comprised of the Arts & Science Program and six Faculties: The DeGroote School of Business, and the Faculties of Engineering, Health Sciences, Humanities, Science, and Social Sciences.
46. Tomas Bata University in Zlín – Faculty of Technology
47. Moscow Pedagogical State University
Moscow Pedagogical State University (MPGU) is a pioneering Russian university in pedagogy, teachers’ training and research. MPGU, being the oldest teachers’ training university in Russia, is committed to preservation of traditions and introduction of innovative approaches to pedagogical education.
According to the President of Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, few universities can equal MPGU in matters of educational achievements.
48. Faulkner University
Faulkner University is a private, Christian liberal arts university based in Montgomery, Alabama. With a mission to provide an education anchored by not only intellect but also character and service, the Faulkner experience aims to educate the whole person.
49. The British Friends of the Hebrew University [BFHU]
The British Friends of the Hebrew University [BFHU] was founded in 1926 with a mission to support all aspects of the development and academic research excellence of the Hebrew University including research projects, scholarships and capital programmes such as buildings, facilities and equipment.
50. Elon University
Elon is a selective, mid-sized private university renowned as a national model for engaged and experiential learning. Students work closely with faculty who are dedicated to excellent teaching and scholarship. The curriculum is grounded in the traditional liberal arts and sciences and complemented by nationally accredited professional and graduate programs.
51. Kentucky State University
Kentucky State University (KSU) was chartered in May 1886 as a land grant institution. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky – the state capital – KSU offers associate (two-year) degrees in three disciplines, baccalaureate (four-year) degrees in 24 disciplines, and master’s degrees in five disciplines.
52. Austrian Marketing University of Applied Sciences
53. Fayetteville Technical Community College
FTCC serves over 40,000 students annually and provides 250+ occupational, technical, general education, college transfer, and continuing education programs.
54. University of Rhode Island
The University of Rhode Island is a diverse and dynamic community whose members are connected by a common quest for knowledge.
As a major research university defined by innovation and big thinking, URI offers its undergraduate, graduate, and professional students distinctive educational opportunities designed to meet the global challenges of today’s world and the rapidly evolving needs of tomorrow. That’s why we’re here.
55. Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis’ mission is to discover and disseminate knowledge, and protect the freedom of inquiry through research, teaching and learning.
56. Montreal Diocesan Theological College
Since 1873, Montreal Diocesan Theological College has been training people to be ministers of the Christian Gospel. We are rooted in the Anglican tradition, study alongside our ecumenical colleagues, and partner with one of Canada’s leading universities.
57. Averett University
Averett University prepares students to serve and lead as catalysts for positive change. Averett fulfills this mission by educating students from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and nations through liberal arts-based undergraduate and graduate programs in a personal, collegial, interdisciplinary environment.
58. IUBH University of Applied Sciences
The IUBH International University is a private, state-recognized university. It offers dual bachelor programs in Germany and Austria.
59. Northeastern University
Northeastern has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the nation’s top 50 universities for six consecutive years.
For more than 100 years, Northeastern has been driven by a simple truth: Experience deepens learning like nothing else can. Today, that truth has never been more relevant. Experience propels you beyond the confines of one discipline, campus, or degree to a lifetime of growth, learning, and knowledge creation, anytime, anywhere.
60. NC State University
At NC State University, we create prosperity for North Carolina and the nation. We began as a land-grant institution grounded in agriculture and engineering. Today, we’re a pre-eminent research enterprise that excels across disciplines.
NC State is a powerhouse in science, technology, engineering and math. We lead in agriculture, education, textiles, business and natural resources management. We’re at the forefront of teaching and research in design, the humanities and the social sciences. And we’re home to one of the world’s best colleges of veterinary medicine.
Wrapping it all up
I hope that this article proves that WordPress can be tailored to fit many requirements, even strict governmental requirements for accessibility and usability.
Many still believe that WordPress is easily hacked, has a poor performance, is “only for blogs”, etc. If you happen to meet such a person, feel free to show them this list of some of the top academia websites in the world. If they trust WordPress, why wouldn’t you?
You can also check out my previous post with 40 examples of website footer design on education websites.
What do you think?
Please take a minute and leave a comment below and let me know what you think about these websites, do you have any favorites? Or maybe you would like to suggest other websites to be included in a similar list in the future?
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