Leatherneck Nation

I'll take a stab at it.

Here's my list:

Comprehensive National Research Institutions (USD & SIU with Law Schools)
1) University of South Dakota
2) Southern Illinois University
3) North Dakota State University
4) South Dakota State University

Regional Schools/Schools technically not designated Regional but without Law School, Med School, Engineering or Comprehensive Graduate STEM Offerings
5) University of Northern Iowa
5) Illinois State University
7) Indiana State University
8) Western Illinois University
9) Missouri State University

Regional Schools that do not offer any programs of distinction
10) Youngstown State University




Criteria that went into Ranking included: Comprehensiveness of Programs Offered, Research, STEM Programs, Engineering Programs, Business Programs, Level of Selectivity, Doctoral Programs, Law School, and Medical School.

NDSU research dollars are incredible:

With well over $100 million in research expenditures annually, NDSU’s research intensity frequently places it in lists of top 50 research universities.

Great Engineering and Pharmacy programs.


but I agree with your top 5 list.

2017 rankings by US News- for what it's worth. These rankings can be deceptive and considered unreal by some,however, it's out there and prospective students and parents do look.
Regional= Midwest- public and private
National- public and private

wiu- 49th regional
isu (red) 152 national
sdsu 202 national
ndsu 188 national
siu-c 214 national
missouri state 71 regional
youngstown- not ranked regional
south dakota 202 national
isu (blue) not ranked national
uni 20 regional

others of some interest
siu-e 63 regional
truman 8 regional, (1 public)
niu 214 national
eiu 40 regional