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12 Hidden Gem Colleges With Nationally Ranked Debate Teams
For students who love public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking, joining a college debate team can be one of the most rewarding experiences of their undergraduate years. Debate builds confidence, hones research and communication skills, and opens doors to internships, law school, and leadership roles. While many families think of debate programs at the Ivy League or large state schools, there are plenty of lesser-known colleges making their mark on the national stage.
Here are 12 hidden gem colleges with nationally ranked debate teams:

Kenyon College (Ohio)
Kenyon combines rigorous academics with a strong debate tradition. The team regularly competes in national tournaments and fosters a culture of intellectual exploration both inside and outside the classroom.
Bentley University (Massachusetts)
Known for its focus on business and leadership, Bentley also boasts a nationally competitive debate team. Students gain practical experience in public speaking and argumentation while representing the school at national competitions.
University of Vermont (Vermont)
The University of Vermont is home to one of the most active policy debate teams in the country. Students develop expertise in advocacy, policy analysis, and critical thinking, making UVM a strong choice for debate-minded applicants.
Ball State University (Indiana)
Ball State’s program competes in both British Parliamentary debate and NFA individual events. With a history of All-Americans and national champions, the program has earned a reputation for excellence.
Hofstra University (New York)
Hofstra supports a strong debate and forensics program, competing across speech, policy, and parliamentary formats. Students receive intensive training and regularly participate in national tournaments.
Gonzaga University (Washington)
Gonzaga’s debate team has grown into a competitive national presence, excelling in multiple formats. Strong coaching and supportive faculty make it a standout program for students who want to blend academics with debate.
University of North Dakota (North Dakota)
UND has a long tradition of debate and speech competition, supported by alumni networks and consistent national participation. Students gain both competitive experience and career-focused skills in communication.
University of Puget Sound (Washington)
Puget Sound emphasizes parliamentary debate and competes successfully in both regional and national circuits. The program is known for fostering teamwork and intellectual rigor.
Harding University (Arkansas)
Harding fields nationally competitive debate and individual event teams, with consistent rankings in tournaments across the country. Students benefit from the program’s supportive coaching and strong community.
Hillsdale College (Michigan)
Hillsdale’s growing debate program reflects the college’s emphasis on intellectual engagement. Its students compete nationally with teams that are rigorous, thoughtful, and highly competitive.
University of Richmond (Virginia)
Richmond’s forensics program is home to competitive debate teams that often reach elimination rounds at major national tournaments. The university’s strong liberal arts focus enriches the debate culture.
Grand Canyon University (Arizona)
GCU is an emerging force in the national debate community. Its teams have seen rising rankings in public forum and parliamentary circuits, making it a promising option for debate-oriented students.