Top prestigious universities in the US?

I'm a high school junior researching potential colleges, and I'm trying to figure out which universities are considered the most prestigious in the US. Besides the Ivy League, are there others known for their reputation?

Certainly, there are many prestigious universities outside of the Ivy League.

In fact, many of the nation's top schools are not Ivies! Here are a few that come to mind:

- Stanford University: Well-regarded as a global leader in technology innovation and entrepreneurship, Stanford is located in California's Silicon Valley and is famous for its programs in Computer Science, Engineering, and Business.

- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Known for its exceptional programs in Engineering, Physics, and Economics, MIT is another world-leading institution in STEM fields.

- University of Chicago: This school, fondly known as UChicago, is renowned for its programs in Economics, Political Science, and Physics.

- California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Caltech is globally recognized for its strong programs in the physical sciences and engineering.

- Johns Hopkins University: Known for its cutting-edge research and top programs in fields like Biological Sciences, Public Health, and Medicine.

- Northwestern University: Excellent programs in Journalism, Theatre, and Business are what make Northwestern stand out among other institutions.

- Duke University: Duke is highly regarded, with strong programs in Biological Sciences, Public Policy Analysis, and Economics.

- Vanderbilt University: Known for its high-quality Education, Medical, Law, and Business programs, Vanderbilt has made a name for itself among top-tier universities.

Please remember that prestige can often be subject-related, i.e., some universities might be prestigious for specific fields of study. It's important to research the strength of the specific department or program you're interested in, rather than solely looking at overall rankings or prestige. College is not a one-size-fits-all experience, so it's essential to find a school that fits your personal academic and extracurricular interests!