Community service has become a defining feature of higher education institutions that aim to build socially responsible leaders. Today, many universities are going beyond academic excellence to integrate service into campus life, research, and curriculum. These schools not only encourage students to give back but also embed civic engagement as a core part of their identity.
Below are the top 10 universities in the U.S. recognized for their leadership in community service, based on program strength, student participation, partnerships, and institutional commitment.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Universities Leading in Community Service
1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
UCLA’s Center for Community Engagement integrates service learning across disciplines. Thousands of students participate annually in volunteer programs, community-based research, and partnerships with local nonprofits across Los Angeles.
Standout Program: UCLA Volunteer Day — one of the largest student-run service days in the nation.
2. Tulane University
Service is part of Tulane’s graduation requirement. Students must complete community-based learning as part of their coursework, setting a national example for civic engagement in higher education.
Standout Program: Center for Public Service — coordinates academic service learning and internships in New Orleans.
3. Georgetown University
Georgetown’s Jesuit values promote social justice, with students engaging in community service through programs like the Center for Social Justice Research, Teaching, and Service.
Standout Program: DC Schools Project — a long-running tutoring and mentoring initiative for immigrant youth.
4. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
UNC promotes service through its Carolina Center for Public Service, supporting community-based research, internships, and student-led projects across North Carolina.
Standout Program: Buckley Public Service Scholars Program — a leadership track combining coursework and service.
5. University of Michigan
With programs like Michigan Community Scholars and Ginsberg Center, U-M emphasizes community action rooted in equity and inclusion. Students contribute hundreds of thousands of service hours annually.
Standout Program: Semester in Detroit — an immersive, service-based urban learning experience.
6. Portland State University
Known for its motto “Let Knowledge Serve the City,” PSU integrates community service into nearly every degree. Students contribute more than a million hours of service learning annually.
Standout Program: Capstone Courses — required service-based projects partnered with community groups.
7. University of Maryland, College Park
UMD’s commitment to service is visible through the Leadership & Community Service-Learning (LCSL) office, which organizes alternative breaks and civic engagement programs.
Standout Program: Terps for Change — semester-long service placements and reflection sessions.
8. Stanford University
Stanford supports service through the Haas Center for Public Service, which connects students with nonprofit, education, and government organizations locally and globally.
Standout Program: Cardinal Quarter — paid public service internships and fellowships for undergraduates.
9. Duke University
DukeEngage offers full funding for students to work on service projects worldwide. The university emphasizes ethical global partnerships and reflection.
Standout Program: DukeEngage — over 500 students participate annually in domestic and international service.
10. Brown University
Brown integrates service learning into its open curriculum through the Swearer Center, which supports community partnerships and social innovation.
Standout Program: Bonner Community Fellowship — connects students with long-term community impact projects.
Comparative Overview
| University | Standout Program | Service Requirement | Global Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| UCLA | Volunteer Day | No | Limited |
| Tulane University | Center for Public Service | Yes | Yes |
| Georgetown University | DC Schools Project | No | Yes |
| UNC Chapel Hill | Buckley Scholars Program | Optional | Limited |
| University of Michigan | Semester in Detroit | Optional | Yes |
| Portland State University | Capstone Courses | Yes (in curriculum) | No |
| University of Maryland | Terps for Change | Optional | Yes |
| Stanford University | Cardinal Quarter | No | Yes |
| Duke University | DukeEngage | No | Yes |
| Brown University | Bonner Fellowship | No | Yes |
These universities lead by example, showing how community service can be a powerful part of a college education. Whether through service-learning courses, global outreach, or structured fellowships, they prepare students not only for careers—but for citizenship.
For students looking to make a difference while earning a degree, these institutions provide the perfect environment to turn passion into action.
FAQs
Do these universities require service to graduate?
Some, like Tulane and Portland State, require service as part of the curriculum. Others strongly encourage it but make it optional.
Is international service offered through these programs?
Yes, several universities (like Duke and Stanford) offer funded global service experiences.
Can service count toward academic credit?
At most of these institutions, yes. Many offer service-learning courses or capstone projects for credit.
