Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine was recognized as one of the best research-oriented medical schools in the nation, rising one spot to rank 18th, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, released today.
This is the 13th year in a row Feinberg has placed in the top 20 of research-oriented medical schools, and several departments ranked highly among the specialty-specific rankings.
“The medical school continues its steady progress through the highest ranks of world-class academic medical centers,” said Eric G. Neilson, MD, vice president for Medical Affairs and Lewis Landsberg Dean. “We have once again been recognized for our innovative education and exceptional commitment to leading-edge discovery. As we continue to invest in these programs, I have no doubt our climb will continue as a premier institution.”
This year, seven of Feinberg’s specialty programs were recognized among the best in the nation — an all-time high for nationally-ranked specialties. Physical therapy was ranked 4th in the nation, obstetrics and gynecology was ranked 9th, while internal medicine rose two spots to be ranked 15th, pediatrics was ranked 16th, radiology and psychiatry were both ranked 17th, and surgery was ranked 24th.
The newly published U.S. News research rankings are based on National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding, survey assessments completed by deans and senior faculty at peer institutions and entering class data. The magazine surveyed the nation’s 153 fully accredited medical schools and 35 schools of osteopathic medicine.
Feinberg, founded in 1859, has built a national reputation for excellence through its leading-edge scientific initiatives, premier clinical facilities and innovative curriculum. The medical school is a central component of Northwestern Medicine, a top-tier academic health system, and currently includes 1,893 regular faculty who teach, conduct research and/or practice medicine. During the 2019-2020 academic year, Feinberg welcomed 639 medical students, 1,216 residents and fellows, 376 PhD students, 479 postdoctoral fellows, and 704 master’s and professional program students.
