Top 10 Safest College Campuses in the US

Safety is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a college. College is a great time of exploration and growth; finding one that values students’ comfort and peace of mind is an essential aspect. Educational institutions are meant to be places of learning and development, but, unfortunately, they can sometimes be full of fear and danger.

To help you choose a good school, we have compiled a list of the 10 safest college campuses in the United States (not in order). Ranging from private to public universities, these institutions provide a secure environment for their students.

What Makes a College Campus Safe?

When it comes to college security, several factors contribute to creating a safe environment. Here are some key elements:

• Adequate security measures such as well-lit pathways, security cameras, and emergency call boxes;
• Campus-wide security programs and initiatives;
• Accessible and reliable emergency services;
• Strong partnerships with local law enforcement;
• Clear policies and procedures for reporting and addressing any concerns;
• Regular safety audits and assessments;
• Supportive community and resources for mental health and well-being;
• Informed and trained faculty and staff on emergency response protocols.

Top 10 Safest College Campuses in the US

1) University of New Hampshire

Nestled in the picturesque state of New Hampshire, the University of New Hampshire is known for its stunning structures and commitment to student protection on and off the school’s grounds. 

Trained New Hampshire Campus Safety Academy graduates work hand-in-hand with the Manchester Police Department to guarantee to provide students with a secure environment to thrive academically and personally.

With its state-of-the-art security measures, dedicated safety programs, and supportive community, UNH prioritizes general protection. Feel free to stroll through the beautifully maintained grounds or attend late-night study sessions. 

2) Oakland University

Oakland University lies in the heart of Michigan. A College Magazine study ranks it the third-safest in the nation based on factors like campus safety resources, number of violent crimes reported within the school, housing availability, and total number of disciplinary incidents.

According to the study, they had over 20,000 students as of 2021, with just four violent crimes reported annually. Most of the incidents students report can be handled by the school’s disciplinary committee and do not require the involvement of the law.

Oakland University also offers various programs and resources to empower students to make informed choices and study without panicking. There are measures like the First Aid Support Team (also called FAST), a crisis intervention workshop, conflict resolution training, courses on prevention of violence, and partnerships with the community itself.

3) Princeton University 

Princeton University is renowned for its prestigious academics and rich history. It is known to prioritize the protection and well-being of its students. 

Students can direct their concerns through the school’s supervisory chain of command before directly contacting an Environmental Health Safety (EHS) staff. The Princeton University Hotline by EthicsPoint is another measure to report concerns anonymously in your preferred language.

The Card Access System (CACS), blue light phone emergency services, bike registration and lock, and Princeton Telephone and Email Notification System (PTENS) are just some of the measures put in place to provide the perfect combination of academic excellence and a secure community.

4) Harvard University

Harvard University is well known for its academic excellence and the fact that it takes student protection seriously. With a strong campus police force, shuttle services, walking service, lighted pathways, emergency phones, and computer-card key systems for all residential buildings, Harvard provides a secure environment for its students. 

You can notice how this university prioritizes the well-being of its students, right from its iconic structures and facilities to its bustling student community. Rest assured that you will be danger-free at any time of the day and anywhere on the school’s grounds.

5) Brigham Young University – Idaho

Brigham Young University - Idaho, located in the beautiful city of Rexburg, has a dedicated security team, comprehensive protocols, and a supportive community. 

BYU-Idaho is ranked high in most studies on the danger-free colleges in the US because it ensures a secure environment for its students to thrive as they attend classes, participate in extracurricular activities, or simply explore the surrounding area.

Therefore, it is not out of place to say that BYU-Idaho, with its stunning grounds and resources, is a haven for your learning experience

6) New York University

Right in the bustling city of New York, New York University (NYU) shows its commitment to creating a protected learning place with its dedicated 24/7 security services. 

OPERATION ID, a joint program with NYPD, ensures all valuable properties are registered at no cost. Safe Ride operates at night to give students a danger-free transportation option after normal working hours, especially at subway stations. These are just some of the security measures available. 

Students can thrive in the secure environment and vibrant atmosphere that NYU provides.

7) Washington State University

Washington State University (WSU) is located in the beautiful state of Washington. It ensures a danger-free environment for its students, staff, and faculty through its many units collaborating on different programs to address students’ needs at its various campuses.

The Campus Safety Plan provides individual WSU campuses with information and tips to inform them on the right actions to take in emergencies.

Join the community and experience a university that truly values the security and well-being of its students. WSU is a great place to learn confidently and make quality connections.

8) Tufts University

The lively cities of Medford and Somerville, Massachusetts, are home to Tufts University campuses, committed to creating a secure environment for its students. Crime on university grounds is kept rare by the team of security experts, including the Tufts University Police Department (TUPD) and the Tufts Emergency Medical Services (TEMS), which the students themselves run effectively.

With an emphasis on community policing, TUPD has dedicated and well-trained officers stationed at different community groups in the university. They offer self-defense courses, emergency blue light systems, and shuttles.

Tufts Threat Assessment and Management (TTAM) is another group that lets community members report threats of crime or violence anonymously. The group works hand-in-hand with others in the university to ensure dangerous situations are recognized and reported swiftly to prevent escalation.

9) Bay Path University

Bay Path University is a private university on 48 acres of land in a suburban setting. Its Department of Campus Public Safety (CPS) works hard to enforce the university, town, state, and federal laws to ensure a secure environment for people living and working in the Bay Path community.

Fire departments, walking services, an advanced e-911 system that connects directly to the Longmeadow Police, and secure residence halls that require electronic ID access and work round the clock are some of the services CPS provides and maintains.

10) Spring Arbor University

According to Nuwber, Spring Arbor University, a private university in Spring Arbor, Michigan, has one of the safest college campuses in the US. Surprisingly, no arrests, hate crimes, sexual offenses, or violence against women have been reported, making this university a safe place for its students.

The university’s website offers checklists for any possible concerns, including sexual assault and other situations.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right institution is essential in a world where safety is paramount. After exploring the top 10 danger-free college campuses in the US, it's clear that these institutions prioritize the well-being and security of their students. 

From their state-of-the-art security measures to dedicated programs, these colleges provide a haven for students to learn, grow, and create unforgettable experiences. 

So, if you’re attending any of the above schools, you can pursue your education with peace of mind, knowing that your protection is a top priority.