Washington Monthly College Ranking (US)

The 2011 College Rankings published by Washington Monthly offer a comprehensive assessment of U.S. colleges, emphasizing the social impact of institutions rather than focusing solely on traditional academic metrics such as test scores or reputation. These rankings highlight colleges and universities that demonstrate a commitment to service, community engagement, and providing opportunities for low-income students, reflecting the magazine's mission to prioritize higher education institutions that contribute positively to society.

Among the institutions that received recognition in this ranking were Berea College, University of California, San Diego (UCSD), Creighton University, Tuskegee University, and several others. Each of these schools was honored for their efforts to educate and empower students in ways that extend beyond academic achievement, with a focus on social mobility, community involvement, and public service.

Berea College, located in Kentucky, earned the prestigious title of the top liberal arts college in the United States in Washington Monthly's 2011 rankings. Berea’s achievement stems from its exceptional success in educating and graduating academically talented, low-income students. The college was founded in 1855 as the first interracial and coeducational institution in the South, which underscores its longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion. What sets Berea apart from other liberal arts colleges is its focus on providing access to higher education for students who might otherwise be unable to afford it. Berea College does not charge tuition; instead, it provides all of its students with a work-study opportunity. Each student is expected to work on campus in exchange for a full scholarship, which allows them to focus on their studies without the burden of tuition fees. This innovative model has resulted in high graduation rates among low-income students, and Berea graduates often go on to become service-oriented leaders in their fields and communities. Berea’s ranking as the number one liberal arts college is a testament to the college's effectiveness in providing a transformative educational experience that fosters both intellectual growth and social responsibility.

In the realm of community service, the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) stands out as the nation’s leader in Washington Monthly's 2011 rankings of national universities. For the second consecutive year, UC San Diego was recognized as the top institution in the category of “What Colleges Are Doing for the Country.” This ranking considers how colleges engage with the broader community, encouraging students to participate in volunteer work, community service, and other initiatives that benefit society. UC San Diego has consistently demonstrated its commitment to community service through a wide variety of programs and partnerships aimed at addressing local and global challenges. Additionally, UCSD has earned a place on the President's Community Service Honor Roll with Distinction, which is one of the highest federal recognitions for colleges and universities that excel in service-learning and community engagement. The institution’s focus on using higher education as a means to positively impact society aligns with Washington Monthly's core values, and the university's role in encouraging students to contribute to the public good is a central aspect of its mission.

Creighton University, a private Catholic institution in Omaha, Nebraska, topped the master's universities category in Washington Monthly's 2011 rankings. Creighton was praised for its strong emphasis on community service and civic engagement, which are central elements of the university’s mission. As a Catholic university, Creighton is guided by the principles of service to others, and its students are encouraged to engage in volunteer work, internships, and service-learning opportunities both locally and internationally. The university has earned a place on the President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, which recognizes schools for their outstanding commitment to service-learning and community involvement. Creighton’s top ranking among master’s universities highlights its dedication to providing a holistic education that integrates academic achievement with the values of social responsibility and public service. Its strong focus on preparing students to lead lives of meaning and purpose is reflected in the university's commitment to making a difference in the world through service.

In the same category, St. Mary's University of San Antonio and Truman State University followed closely behind Creighton, earning second and third places, respectively. Both institutions were recognized for their contributions to civic engagement and their emphasis on service-oriented learning. St. Mary’s, another Catholic university, integrates its mission of justice and service into its academic programs, encouraging students to pursue careers in public service and social justice. Truman State, known for its focus on liberal arts education, similarly emphasizes the development of students who are not only academically proficient but also committed to serving their communities and contributing to the greater good.

In the category for baccalaureate colleges, Washington Monthly ranked Tuskegee University in the top spot. Tuskegee, a historically black university in Alabama, is renowned for its contributions to research, especially in the fields of agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. According to the rankings, Tuskegee spent more than $14 million on research, highlighting the institution's commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering academic excellence. Tuskegee's focus on research and its significant impact on academic and professional fields have earned it a well-deserved place at the top of the baccalaureate college rankings. In addition to its strong research profile, Tuskegee was also ranked 21st in the nation in the percentage of graduates who go on to pursue Ph.D. degrees, underscoring its effectiveness in preparing students for advanced academic work and leadership roles in their respective fields.

The Cooper Union in New York City, which ranked second in the baccalaureate college category, also received high praise for its commitment to academic excellence and public service. Cooper Union is particularly well known for offering full-tuition scholarships to all of its undergraduate students, a policy that allows it to attract some of the most talented and motivated students from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds. The college's unique financial model is a testament to its dedication to making high-quality education accessible to those who might otherwise be unable to afford it. Cooper Union's focus on providing a rigorous education in engineering, architecture, and the arts makes it a highly regarded institution, and its commitment to serving a diverse student body further aligns with the values emphasized in Washington Monthly's rankings.

Northwestern College, a Christian liberal arts college located in Orange City, Iowa, rounded out the top three in the baccalaureate college category. The college has been recognized for its emphasis on service-oriented education, academic rigor, and preparation for leadership in both professional and community settings. Northwestern's commitment to fostering a Christ-centered community where students engage in both academic and service opportunities makes it a notable institution in the rankings.

In conclusion, Washington Monthly's 2011 College Rankings offer a refreshing perspective on higher education, recognizing institutions for their commitment to service, community engagement, and their ability to provide opportunities for low-income students to succeed. From Berea College's emphasis on affordability and service to UC San Diego's dedication to community involvement, the rankings highlight colleges and universities that prioritize the greater good. Institutions like Creighton University, Tuskegee University, and St. Mary’s University show that the true value of education extends far beyond academic prestige and test scores; it lies in the ways that institutions prepare students to become responsible, engaged citizens who will contribute positively to their communities and professions. These rankings remind us that the ultimate purpose of higher education is not only to create successful individuals but also to foster leaders who are dedicated to serving others and making a difference in the world.