For student-athletes looking to compete at the highest collegiate level—and who have the skills to back it up—an NCAA Division 1 program is probably the best choice. Recruits who compete at the NCAA D1 level are typically among the best-ranked athletes on a national—or even international—level as well. They don’t just regularly appear on track and field rankings—they top them. For instance, out of 1,600+ high-school athletes ranked as the best 100m runners worldwide, only about 300—about 18 percent—would qualify for an athletic scholarship at a top D1 track and field program.
Division 1 track and field colleges push their athletes to be better, faster and stronger. Track and field athletes interested in competing at the D1 level should know that for most recruits, their college experience revolves almost entirely around their sport, offering little time for extracurricular activities.
Though there’s a lot of hard work involved to get to the D1 level—and stay there—the payoff can make it worth all the effort. Top D1 track and field colleges offer many benefits, including full and partial athletic scholarship offers, experienced coaches to take your game to the next level, well-funded facilities and enthusiastic fans. Athletes who have the talent, drive and academics to compete for a D1 men’s track and a field college should check out our full list of Division 1 track and field programs to start narrowing down target schools. Where can I find Division 1 track and field programs?
Currently, there are over 250 Division 1 track and field programs across the country. If you’re set on attending a Division 1 track and field college and have the athletics and academic talents to compete at that level, you’ll find many schools and programs to pursue. Top Division 1 colleges for track and field are some of the largest, oldest and most prestigious schools in the country. Potential recruits must work hard and sharpen their skills both on and off the track to land a coveted roster spot at one of these top Division 1 programs.
When narrowing down your search, it’s important to consider your personal preferences, explore a list of top Division 1 track and field colleges and stay up to date on the NCAA Division 1 track and field rankings. For a complete list of Division 1 men’s track and field colleges, including their location and corresponding athletic conference, look at our full list of Division 1 track and field colleges below.
Several organizations offer D1 men’s track and field rankings throughout the season, including the NCAA, the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association, and the Track & Field Results Reporting System.
Check out NCSA’s Power Rankings of top Division 1 track and field colleges.
Find the complete NCAA Division 1 track and field rankings here.