- Financial Commitment: D1 schools invest heavily in their athletic programs, providing scholarships, top-notch coaching, and state-of-the-art facilities. This financial commitment translates to a high level of competition and a significant impact on the school's overall profile.
- Academic Standards: While athletics are a major focus, D1 schools also maintain academic standards for their athletes. Student-athletes must meet certain GPA and standardized test score requirements to be eligible to compete. This balance between academics and athletics is a hallmark of the NCAA.
- National Exposure: D1 programs often receive significant media coverage, with games broadcast on national television and athletes becoming household names. This exposure can be a huge draw for prospective student-athletes and can also boost the school's overall reputation.
- Recruiting Insights: For aspiring college athletes, knowing which D1 schools are in your state (or the states you're interested in) is crucial for recruiting. You can start researching programs, coaches, and athletic facilities to see if they're a good fit for you. This guide gives you a starting point for your college athletic journey.
- Fan Focus: If you're a fan, this guide can help you discover new teams to follow in your state or across the country. Maybe you're moving to a new state and want to get involved in the local college sports scene. Or perhaps you just want to broaden your horizons and cheer on some different teams. Whatever your reason, this guide is your go-to resource.
- Educational Exploration: Let's not forget the academic side of things! D1 schools are, first and foremost, institutions of higher learning. This guide can help you explore different universities in a particular state, considering their academic programs alongside their athletic offerings. It's all about finding the right balance for your overall college experience.
- University of Alabama (Crimson Tide): Roll Tide! Known for its powerhouse football program, Alabama is a perennial contender for national championships. Their rivalry with Auburn is one of the fiercest in college sports.
- Auburn University (Tigers): War Eagle! Auburn's football team is also a major force, and their games against Alabama are legendary. They have strong programs across various sports.
- University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB Blazers): UAB has been building a strong athletic program, particularly in football. They're a rising force in the Conference USA.
- Alabama A&M University (Bulldogs): A historically black university (HBCU) with a proud athletic tradition, Alabama A&M competes in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).
- Alabama State University (Hornets): Another prominent HBCU in Alabama, Alabama State is also a member of the SWAC and has a rich athletic history.
- Troy University (Trojans): Troy has a competitive football program and has made strides in other sports as well. They're part of the Sun Belt Conference.
- University of North Alabama (Lions): Transitioning to Division 1, North Alabama is looking to establish itself in the ASUN Conference.
- University of Alaska Anchorage (Seawolves): Known for its hockey program, UAA also competes in other sports like basketball and skiing.
- University of Alaska Fairbanks (Nanooks): Like UAA, UAF has a strong presence in hockey and other winter sports. They offer a unique collegiate experience in the Alaskan wilderness.
- University of Arizona (Wildcats): The Wildcats are known for their basketball prowess, but they also have competitive programs in football and other sports. Their rivalry with Arizona State is a classic.
- Arizona State University (Sun Devils): ASU is another major player in the Pac-12 Conference, with strong programs in football, baseball, and other sports. The Territorial Cup rivalry with Arizona is always a must-watch.
- Northern Arizona University (Lumberjacks): NAU competes in the Big Sky Conference and has a strong cross-country program, taking advantage of the high-altitude training environment.
- Grand Canyon University (Antelopes): GCU has rapidly grown its athletic program in recent years and competes in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).
- University of Arkansas (Razorbacks): Woo Pig Sooie! The Razorbacks are a powerhouse in the SEC, with strong programs in football, basketball, and baseball. Their passionate fan base makes for an electric atmosphere at games.
- Arkansas State University (Red Wolves): Arkansas State competes in the Sun Belt Conference and has had success in football and other sports.
- University of Central Arkansas (Bears): UCA is transitioning to Division 1 and is a member of the ASUN Conference.
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA Bruins): A Pac-12 powerhouse with a rich history in basketball and other sports.
- University of California, Berkeley (Cal Bears): Another Pac-12 giant, known for its academic excellence and competitive athletic programs.
- University of Southern California (USC Trojans): USC has a storied football program and competes in the Pac-12 Conference.
- Stanford University (Cardinal): Stanford is known for its academic prowess and its dominance in various sports, particularly in the Pac-12.
- San Diego State University (Aztecs): SDSU's basketball program has gained national recognition, and they compete in the Mountain West Conference.
- (And many more!) California is packed with D1 schools, including those in the Big West Conference, the WCC, and other conferences. Seriously, you could spend days just exploring the D1 options in California.
- University of Colorado Boulder (Buffaloes): The Buffs compete in the Pac-12 Conference and are known for their scenic campus and strong athletic programs.
- Colorado State University (Rams): CSU is a member of the Mountain West Conference and has a growing athletic program.
- University of Denver (Pioneers): DU is known for its hockey program, which has won multiple national championships. They compete in the Summit League for other sports.
- United States Air Force Academy (Air Force Falcons): One of the military academies, Air Force competes in the Mountain West Conference and has a strong tradition in football and other sports.
- Northern Colorado (Bears): UNC competes in the Big Sky Conference.
- University of Connecticut (UConn Huskies): A powerhouse in basketball, UConn is a member of the Big East Conference and has a strong athletic tradition across various sports.
- Central Connecticut State University (Blue Devils): CCSU competes in the Northeast Conference and offers a range of Division 1 programs.
- Fairfield University (Stags): Fairfield is a member of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) and has competitive programs in basketball and other sports.
- Hartford University (Hawks): Hartford competes in the America East Conference.
- Yale University (Bulldogs): As a member of the Ivy League, Yale emphasizes academics while also fielding competitive athletic teams.
- University of Delaware (Fightin' Blue Hens): Delaware is a member of the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) and has a strong football program.
- Delaware State University (Hornets): An HBCU, Delaware State competes in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).
- University of Florida (Gators): The Gators are a powerhouse in the SEC, known for their football, basketball, and baseball programs.
- Florida State University (Seminoles): FSU is another major player in the ACC, with a storied football program and competitive teams in other sports.
- University of Miami (Hurricanes): The Hurricanes have a strong tradition in football and are a member of the ACC.
- University of Central Florida (UCF Knights): UCF has rapidly grown its athletic program and is a member of the Big 12 Conference.
- University of South Florida (USF Bulls): USF competes in the American Athletic Conference (AAC).
- Florida Atlantic University (FAU Owls): FAU is a member of the AAC and has had success in football and other sports.
- Florida International University (FIU Panthers): FIU competes in the AAC and is located in Miami.
- Jacksonville University (Dolphins): Jacksonville is a member of the ASUN Conference.
- Stetson University (Hatters): Stetson competes in the ASUN Conference.
- University of Georgia (Bulldogs): Go Dawgs! Georgia is a football powerhouse in the SEC, with a passionate fan base.
- Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets): Georgia Tech competes in the ACC and is known for its engineering programs as well as its athletics.
- Georgia Southern University (Eagles): Georgia Southern is a member of the Sun Belt Conference and has a strong football tradition.
- Georgia State University (Panthers): Georgia State competes in the Sun Belt Conference and is located in Atlanta.
- Kennesaw State University (Owls): Kennesaw State is a member of the ASUN Conference.
- Mercer University (Bears): Mercer competes in the Southern Conference.
- University of Hawaii at Manoa (Rainbow Warriors/Rainbow Wahine): Hawaii competes in the Big West Conference and has a unique island culture that influences its athletics.
- Boise State University (Broncos): Boise State's blue turf football field is iconic, and they have a strong program in the Mountain West Conference.
- University of Idaho (Vandals): Idaho competes in the Big Sky Conference.
- Idaho State University (Bengals): Idaho State also competes in the Big Sky Conference.
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Fighting Illini): Illinois is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.
- Northwestern University (Wildcats): Northwestern is a private university in the Big Ten, known for its academic rigor and competitive athletics.
- DePaul University (Blue Demons): DePaul is a member of the Big East Conference and has a strong basketball program.
- Loyola University Chicago (Ramblers): Loyola Chicago gained national attention with its men's basketball Final Four run and competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Illinois State University (Redbirds): Illinois State competes in the Missouri Valley Conference.
- Southern Illinois University Carbondale (Salukis): SIU competes in the Missouri Valley Conference.
- Eastern Illinois University (Panthers): EIU competes in the Ohio Valley Conference.
- Western Illinois University (Leathernecks): WIU is a member of the Ohio Valley Conference.
- University of Illinois Chicago (UIC Flames): UIC competes in the Missouri Valley Conference.
- Indiana University Bloomington (Hoosiers): Hoosier basketball is legendary, and Indiana is a member of the Big Ten Conference.
- Purdue University (Boilermakers): Purdue is another Big Ten school in Indiana with a strong athletic program, particularly in basketball and football.
- University of Notre Dame (Fighting Irish): Notre Dame is an independent in football and a member of the ACC for other sports, with a national following.
- Ball State University (Cardinals): Ball State competes in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
- Indiana State University (Sycamores): Indiana State competes in the Missouri Valley Conference.
- University of Evansville (Purple Aces): Evansville is a member of the Missouri Valley Conference.
- Valparaiso University (Beacons): Valparaiso competes in the Missouri Valley Conference.
- University of Iowa (Hawkeyes): Iowa is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong wrestling program.
- Iowa State University (Cyclones): Iowa State is another Big Ten school in the state, with a passionate fan base and competitive athletics.
- University of Northern Iowa (Panthers): UNI competes in the Missouri Valley Conference.
- University of Kansas (Jayhawks): Rock Chalk Jayhawk! Kansas basketball is a national powerhouse, and the school is a member of the Big 12 Conference.
- Kansas State University (Wildcats): K-State is another Big 12 school in Kansas, with a strong agricultural heritage and competitive athletics.
- Wichita State University (Shockers): Wichita State competes in the American Athletic Conference.
- University of Kentucky (Wildcats): Kentucky basketball is legendary, and the school is a member of the SEC.
- University of Louisville (Cardinals): Louisville is a member of the ACC and has strong programs in basketball and football.
- Western Kentucky University (Hilltoppers): WKU competes in the Conference USA.
- Eastern Kentucky University (Colonels): EKU is a member of the ASUN Conference.
- Morehead State University (Eagles): Morehead State competes in the Ohio Valley Conference.
- Murray State University (Racers): Murray State is a member of the Missouri Valley Conference.
- Northern Kentucky University (Norse): NKU competes in the Horizon League.
- Louisiana State University (LSU Tigers): Geaux Tigers! LSU football is a national obsession, and the school is a member of the SEC.
- Tulane University (Green Wave): Tulane is a private university in New Orleans and a member of the AAC.
- University of Louisiana at Lafayette (Ragin' Cajuns): ULL competes in the Sun Belt Conference.
- Louisiana Tech University (Bulldogs): Louisiana Tech is a member of the Conference USA.
- University of Louisiana at Monroe (Warhawks): ULM competes in the Sun Belt Conference.
- McNeese State University (Cowboys): McNeese State is a member of the Southland Conference.
- Nicholls State University (Colonels): Nicholls State competes in the Southland Conference.
- Northwestern State University (Demons): NSU is a member of the Southland Conference.
- Southeastern Louisiana University (Lions): Southeastern Louisiana competes in the Southland Conference.
- Southern University and A&M College (Jaguars): Southern is an HBCU and a member of the SWAC.
- Grambling State University (Tigers): Grambling is another prominent HBCU in Louisiana and a member of the SWAC.
- University of Maine (Black Bears): Maine competes in the America East Conference and has a strong hockey program.
- University of Maryland, College Park (Terrapins): Maryland is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong basketball program.
- United States Naval Academy (Navy Midshipmen): Navy is one of the military academies and competes in the Patriot League.
- Towson University (Tigers): Towson competes in the CAA.
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC Retrievers): UMBC gained national attention with its historic upset of Virginia in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament and is a member of the America East Conference.
- Mount St. Mary's University (Mountaineers): Mount St. Mary's competes in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC).
- Coppin State University (Eagles): Coppin State is an HBCU and a member of the MEAC.
- Boston College (Eagles): BC is a member of the ACC and has a strong hockey program.
- Boston University (Terriers): BU competes in the Patriot League and has a strong hockey program.
- Harvard University (Crimson): Harvard is an Ivy League school, emphasizing academics while also fielding competitive athletic teams.
- University of Massachusetts Amherst (Minutemen/Minutewomen): UMass is a member of the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Northeastern University (Huskies): Northeastern competes in the CAA.
- College of the Holy Cross (Crusaders): Holy Cross is a member of the Patriot League.
- University of Massachusetts Lowell (River Hawks): UMass Lowell competes in the America East Conference.
- University of Michigan (Wolverines): Go Blue! Michigan is a Big Ten powerhouse with a strong athletic tradition.
- Michigan State University (Spartans): Michigan State is another Big Ten giant in the state, and their rivalry with Michigan is legendary.
- Central Michigan University (Chippewas): CMU competes in the MAC.
- Eastern Michigan University (Eagles): EMU is a member of the MAC.
- Western Michigan University (Broncos): WMU also competes in the MAC.
- Oakland University (Golden Grizzlies): Oakland is a member of the Horizon League.
- University of Detroit Mercy (Titans): Detroit Mercy competes in the Horizon League.
- University of Minnesota (Golden Gophers): Minnesota is a Big Ten school with a strong hockey program.
- University of St. Thomas (Tommies): St. Thomas is transitioning to Division 1 and competes in the Summit League.
- University of Mississippi (Ole Miss Rebels): Hotty Toddy! Ole Miss is a member of the SEC and has a passionate fan base.
- Mississippi State University (Bulldogs): Hail State! Mississippi State is another SEC school in the state, with a strong baseball program.
- University of Southern Mississippi (Golden Eagles): Southern Miss competes in the Sun Belt Conference.
- Jackson State University (Tigers): Jackson State is an HBCU and a member of the SWAC, recently gaining national attention under coach Deion Sanders.
- Mississippi Valley State University (Delta Devils): MVSU is an HBCU and a member of the SWAC.
- Alcorn State University (Braves): Alcorn State is an HBCU competing in the SWAC.
- University of Missouri (Tigers): Mizzou is a member of the SEC.
- Saint Louis University (Billikens): SLU competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- University of Missouri-Kansas City (Roos): UMKC is a member of the Summit League.
- Missouri State University (Bears): Missouri State competes in the Missouri Valley Conference.
- Southeast Missouri State University (Redhawks): SEMO is a member of the Ohio Valley Conference.
- Lindenwood University (Lions): Lindenwood is transitioning to Division 1 and competes in the Ohio Valley Conference.
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (Cougars): SIUE competes in the Ohio Valley Conference.
- University of Montana (Grizzlies): Montana competes in the Big Sky Conference.
- Montana State University (Bobcats): Montana State is also a member of the Big Sky Conference, and their rivalry with Montana is intense.
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln (Cornhuskers): Nebraska is a Big Ten school with a storied football program and a loyal fan base.
- University of Nebraska Omaha (Mavericks): UNO competes in the Summit League.
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV Runnin' Rebels): UNLV basketball has a rich history, and the school is a member of the Mountain West Conference.
- University of Nevada, Reno (Wolf Pack): Nevada competes in the Mountain West Conference.
- University of New Hampshire (Wildcats): UNH is a member of the America East Conference and has a strong hockey program.
- Rutgers University (Scarlet Knights): Rutgers is a Big Ten school and the State University of New Jersey.
- Princeton University (Tigers): Princeton is an Ivy League school known for its academic excellence and competitive athletics.
- Seton Hall University (Pirates): Seton Hall competes in the Big East Conference.
- Fairleigh Dickinson University (Knights): FDU is a member of the Northeast Conference.
- Monmouth University (Hawks): Monmouth competes in the CAA.
- New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT Highlanders): NJIT is a member of the America East Conference.
- Rider University (Broncs): Rider competes in the MAAC.
- Saint Peter's University (Peacocks): Saint Peter's gained national attention with its Elite Eight run in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament and is a member of the MAAC.
- University of New Mexico (Lobos): New Mexico competes in the Mountain West Conference.
- New Mexico State University (Aggies): NMSU is also a member of the Conference USA.
- Syracuse University (Orange): Syracuse is a member of the ACC and has a strong basketball and lacrosse tradition.
- St. John's University (Red Storm): St. John's competes in the Big East Conference.
- Columbia University (Lions): Columbia is an Ivy League school located in New York City.
- Cornell University (Big Red): Cornell is another Ivy League school in New York State.
- Fordham University (Rams): Fordham competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Manhattan College (Jaspers): Manhattan is a member of the MAAC.
- Iona University (Gaels): Iona competes in the MAAC.
- University at Albany, SUNY (Great Danes): UAlbany is a member of the America East Conference.
- Binghamton University (Bearcats): Binghamton competes in the America East Conference.
- University at Buffalo (Bulls): Buffalo is a member of the MAC.
- Canisius University (Golden Griffins): Canisius competes in the MAAC.
- Colgate University (Raiders): Colgate is a member of the Patriot League.
- Hofstra University (Pride): Hofstra competes in the CAA.
- Long Island University (Sharks): LIU is a member of the Northeast Conference.
- Marist College (Red Foxes): Marist competes in the MAAC.
- Niagara University (Purple Eagles): Niagara is a member of the MAAC.
- St. Bonaventure University (Bonnies): St. Bonaventure competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Stony Brook University (Seawolves): Stony Brook is a member of the CAA.
- Wagner College (Seahawks): Wagner competes in the Northeast Conference.
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Tar Heels): UNC basketball is legendary, and the school is a member of the ACC. Their rivalry with Duke is one of the most famous in college sports.
- Duke University (Blue Devils): Duke is another ACC basketball powerhouse, and its rivalry with UNC is epic.
- North Carolina State University (Wolfpack): NC State is a member of the ACC and has strong programs in various sports.
- Wake Forest University (Demon Deacons): Wake Forest is another ACC school in North Carolina.
- East Carolina University (Pirates): ECU competes in the AAC.
- Appalachian State University (Mountaineers): App State is a member of the Sun Belt Conference.
- Charlotte (49ers): Charlotte competes in the AAC.
- Davidson College (Wildcats): Davidson is a member of the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Elon University (Phoenix): Elon competes in the CAA.
- Gardner-Webb University (Runnin' Bulldogs): Gardner-Webb is a member of the Big South Conference.
- High Point University (Panthers): High Point competes in the Big South Conference.
- North Carolina A&T State University (Aggies): NC A&T is an HBCU and a member of the CAA.
- University of North Carolina at Asheville (Bulldogs): UNC Asheville competes in the Big South Conference.
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro (Spartans): UNC Greensboro is a member of the Southern Conference.
- University of North Carolina at Wilmington (Seahawks): UNC Wilmington competes in the CAA.
- Western Carolina University (Catamounts): Western Carolina is a member of the Southern Conference.
- Campbell University (Fighting Camels): Campbell competes in the CAA.
- University of North Dakota (Fighting Hawks): UND competes in the Summit League and has a strong hockey program.
- North Dakota State University (Bison): NDSU is a powerhouse in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and a member of the Summit League for other sports.
- Ohio State University (Buckeyes): The Ohio State Buckeyes are a Big Ten powerhouse, especially in football.
- University of Cincinnati (Bearcats): Cincinnati competes in the Big 12 Conference.
- Kent State University (Golden Flashes): Kent State is a member of the MAC.
- Miami University (RedHawks): Miami (of Ohio) competes in the MAC.
- Ohio University (Bobcats): Ohio University is a member of the MAC.
- University of Akron (Zips): Akron competes in the MAC.
- Bowling Green State University (Falcons): Bowling Green is a member of the MAC.
- Cleveland State University (Vikings): Cleveland State competes in the Horizon League.
- University of Toledo (Rockets): Toledo is a member of the MAC.
- Wright State University (Raiders): Wright State competes in the Horizon League.
- Youngstown State University (Penguins): Youngstown State is a member of the Horizon League.
- University of Dayton (Flyers): Dayton competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- University of Oklahoma (Sooners): The Oklahoma Sooners are a Big 12 powerhouse, especially in football.
- Oklahoma State University (Cowboys): Oklahoma State is another Big 12 school in the state, with strong programs in wrestling and baseball.
- University of Tulsa (Golden Hurricane): Tulsa competes in the AAC.
- Oral Roberts University (Golden Eagles): Oral Roberts is a member of the Summit League.
- University of Oregon (Ducks): The Oregon Ducks are known for their innovative uniforms and strong athletic programs in the Pac-12 Conference.
- Oregon State University (Beavers): Oregon State is another Pac-12 school in the state, with a strong baseball program.
- Portland State University (Vikings): Portland State competes in the Big Sky Conference.
- University of Portland (Pilots): Portland is a member of the WCC.
- Pennsylvania State University (Nittany Lions): Penn State is a Big Ten powerhouse, particularly in football and wrestling.
- University of Pennsylvania (Quakers): Penn is an Ivy League school located in Philadelphia.
- University of Pittsburgh (Pitt Panthers): Pitt is a member of the ACC.
- Temple University (Owls): Temple competes in the AAC.
- Villanova University (Wildcats): Villanova has a strong basketball program and is a member of the Big East Conference.
- Duquesne University (Dukes): Duquesne competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- La Salle University (Explorers): La Salle is a member of the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Saint Joseph's University (Hawks): Saint Joseph's competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Bucknell University (Bison): Bucknell is a member of the Patriot League.
- Drexel University (Dragons): Drexel competes in the CAA.
- Lehigh University (Mountain Hawks): Lehigh is a member of the Patriot League.
- Lafayette College (Leopards): Lafayette competes in the Patriot League.
- Robert Morris University (Colonials): Robert Morris is a member of the Horizon League.
- St. Francis University (Red Flash): St. Francis competes in the Northeast Conference.
- University of the Sciences in Philadelphia (Devils): USciences is transitioning to Division II.
- Pennsylvania State University (Nittany Lions): Penn State is a Big Ten powerhouse, particularly in football and wrestling.
- University of Pennsylvania (Quakers): Penn is an Ivy League school located in Philadelphia.
- University of Rhode Island (Rams): URI competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Brown University (Bears): Brown is an Ivy League school in Providence.
- Bryant University (Bulldogs): Bryant is a member of the America East Conference.
- University of South Carolina (Gamecocks): The South Carolina Gamecocks are a member of the SEC.
- Clemson University (Tigers): Clemson is another ACC school in the state, with a strong football program.
- The Citadel (Bulldogs): The Citadel is a military college that competes in the Southern Conference.
- College of Charleston (Cougars): College of Charleston competes in the CAA.
- Coastal Carolina University (Chanticleers): Coastal Carolina is a member of the Sun Belt Conference.
- Presbyterian College (Blue Hose): Presbyterian is a member of the Big South Conference.
- South Carolina State University (Bulldogs): South Carolina State is an HBCU and a member of the MEAC.
- University of South Dakota (Coyotes): USD competes in the Summit League.
- South Dakota State University (Jackrabbits): SDSU is a member of the Summit League.
- University of Tennessee (Volunteers): The Tennessee Volunteers are a member of the SEC, known for their passionate fan base.
- Vanderbilt University (Commodores): Vanderbilt is a private university in Nashville and a member of the SEC.
- University of Memphis (Tigers): Memphis competes in the AAC.
- Middle Tennessee State University (Blue Raiders): MTSU is a member of the Conference USA.
- Tennessee State University (Tigers): TSU is an HBCU and a member of the Ohio Valley Conference.
- Tennessee Technological University (Golden Eagles): Tennessee Tech competes in the Ohio Valley Conference.
- University of Tennessee at Martin (Skyhawks): UT Martin is a member of the Ohio Valley Conference.
- East Tennessee State University (Buccaneers): ETSU competes in the Southern Conference.
- University of Texas at Austin (Longhorns): The Texas Longhorns are a Big 12 powerhouse, especially in football.
- Texas A&M University (Aggies): Texas A&M is another Big 12 school in the state, with a passionate fan base.
- Baylor University (Bears): Baylor is a member of the Big 12 Conference.
- Texas Tech University (Red Raiders): Texas Tech is another Big 12 school in Texas.
- Texas Christian University (TCU Horned Frogs): TCU competes in the Big 12 Conference.
- University of Houston (Cougars): Houston is a member of the Big 12 Conference.
- Southern Methodist University (SMU Mustangs): SMU competes in the AAC.
- Rice University (Owls): Rice is a private university in Houston and a member of the AAC.
- University of North Texas (Mean Green): UNT competes in the AAC.
- University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP Miners): UTEP is a member of the Conference USA.
- University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA Roadrunners): UTSA competes in the AAC.
- Sam Houston State University (Bearkats): Sam Houston State is a member of the Conference USA.
- Stephen F. Austin State University (Lumberjacks): SFA competes in the WAC.
- University of the Incarnate Word (Cardinals): UIW is a member of the Southland Conference.
- Lamar University (Cardinals): Lamar competes in the Southland Conference.
- Texas A&M University–Commerce (Lions): A&M-Commerce is a member of the Southland Conference.
- Prairie View A&M University (Panthers): PVAMU is an HBCU and a member of the SWAC.
- Texas Southern University (Tigers): TSU is another HBCU in Texas and a member of the SWAC.
- University of Utah (Utes): The Utah Utes are a member of the Pac-12 Conference.
- Brigham Young University (BYU Cougars): BYU is an independent in football and a member of the Big 12 for other sports.
- Utah State University (Aggies): Utah State competes in the Mountain West Conference.
- Southern Utah University (Thunderbirds): Southern Utah is a member of the WAC.
- Utah Valley University (Wolverines): Utah Valley competes in the WAC.
- University of Vermont (Catamounts): UVM competes in the America East Conference.
- University of Virginia (Cavaliers): The Virginia Cavaliers are a member of the ACC.
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech Hokies): Virginia Tech is another ACC school in the state, known for its passionate fan base.
- Old Dominion University (Monarchs): ODU competes in the Sun Belt Conference.
- Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU Rams): VCU is a member of the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- George Mason University (Patriots): George Mason competes in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- College of William & Mary (Tribe): William & Mary is a member of the CAA.
- James Madison University (Dukes): James Madison competes in the Sun Belt Conference.
- Liberty University (Flames): Liberty is a member of the Conference USA.
- Norfolk State University (Spartans): Norfolk State is an HBCU and a member of the MEAC.
- Hampton University (Pirates): Hampton is an HBCU competing in the CAA.
- Longwood University (Lancers): Longwood is a member of the Big South Conference.
- Radford University (Highlanders): Radford competes in the Big South Conference.
- University of Washington (Huskies): The Washington Huskies are a member of the Pac-12 Conference.
- Washington State University (Cougars): Washington State is another Pac-12 school in the state.
- Gonzaga University (Bulldogs): Gonzaga is known for its basketball program and competes in the WCC.
- Seattle University (Redhawks): Seattle U competes in the WAC.
- Eastern Washington University (Eagles): EWU competes in the Big Sky Conference.
- West Virginia University (Mountaineers): WVU is a member of the Big 12 Conference, and their fans are known for their passion.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison (Badgers): The Wisconsin Badgers are a Big Ten powerhouse.
- Marquette University (Golden Eagles): Marquette is a member of the Big East Conference.
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Panthers): UWM competes in the Horizon League.
- University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (Phoenix): UWGB is a member of the Horizon League.
- University of Wyoming (Cowboys/Cowgirls): Wyoming competes in the Mountain West Conference.
Hey guys! Are you a sports fanatic or a prospective college athlete? Maybe you're just curious about the landscape of collegiate athletics? Well, you've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the world of NCAA Division 1 schools, breaking it down state by state. Think of this as your ultimate roadmap to understanding the D1 scene, from the powerhouses to the hidden gems. So, buckle up and let's explore the exciting world of college sports!
What is NCAA Division 1?
Before we jump into the state-by-state breakdown, let's quickly cover what NCAA Division 1 actually means. Division 1 (D1) represents the highest level of intercollegiate athletics sanctioned by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the United States. These schools generally have the largest budgets, the most competitive teams, and the most extensive athletic facilities. Think big stadiums, nationally televised games, and some of the most talented athletes in the world.
Division 1 is further subdivided into conferences, which are groups of schools that compete against each other regularly. Some of the most well-known D1 conferences include the Power Five (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, Pac-12, and SEC), the Big East, and the Mountain West. These conferences often have their own unique traditions and rivalries, adding another layer of excitement to the college sports landscape. Understanding these conferences is key to understanding the dynamics of D1 athletics.
Why This State-by-State Guide Matters
So, why are we breaking down D1 schools by state? Well, there are several reasons why this approach is super helpful:
By organizing D1 schools by state, we're making it easier for you to find the information you need, whether you're an athlete, a fan, or a prospective student. Think of this as your personalized college sports search engine!
NCAA Division 1 Schools Listed by State
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! We're going to walk through each state (in alphabetical order, because who wants chaos?) and list the D1 schools within its borders. We'll also highlight a few notable programs or rivalries in each state to give you a taste of the local flavor. Get ready for a whirlwind tour of college sports across the USA!
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
California is a hotbed for D1 athletics, with a ton of schools to choose from. Here are just a few of the highlights:
Colorado
(We'll continue this state-by-state breakdown, but you get the idea! We'll cover each state, highlighting the D1 schools and any notable programs or rivalries.)
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Florida is another state with a robust D1 presence, fueled by passionate fans and a warm climate ideal for year-round sports:
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Indiana is known for its basketball tradition, but it also has strong programs in other sports:
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is home to several prestigious universities with D1 athletic programs:
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Jersey boasts a mix of public and private universities with D1 programs:
New Mexico
New York
New York has a huge number of D1 schools, reflecting its large population and diverse athletic landscape:
North Carolina
North Carolina is a basketball hotbed, but it also has strong programs in other sports:
North Dakota
Ohio
Ohio has a strong tradition of college athletics, particularly in football and basketball:
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to a large number of D1 schools, both public and private:
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Texas is huge on college sports, with a ton of D1 schools:
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Virginia has a strong mix of public and private D1 schools:
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Conclusion
Wow, we made it! That was a lot of schools, guys. From coast to coast, the NCAA Division 1 landscape is incredibly diverse and exciting. Whether you're an athlete looking for the perfect fit, a fan wanting to support your local team, or just curious about college sports, this guide should give you a solid foundation. Remember to do your research, explore different options, and most importantly, enjoy the thrill of college athletics! And don't forget to check back for updates as conference realignments and other changes occur in the ever-evolving world of NCAA Division 1 sports.
Lastest News
-
-
Related News
Top Table Tennis Players In The World
Alex Braham - Nov 9, 2025 37 Views -
Related News
Bremerton News: Shooting Updates & Community Impact
Alex Braham - Nov 13, 2025 51 Views -
Related News
Valdosta GA Breaking News Today: Latest Updates
Alex Braham - Nov 12, 2025 47 Views -
Related News
Sports Information Jobs In Indiana: Your Career Guide
Alex Braham - Nov 15, 2025 53 Views -
Related News
Gunfire Incidents Involving Police: An In-depth Look
Alex Braham - Nov 15, 2025 52 Views