Regional Colleges North Ranking - USCGA ranked 1st

The rankings of colleges and universities have long been a source of valuable information for prospective students and families seeking to make informed decisions about higher education. Among these rankings, the U.S. News & World Report's annual "Best Colleges" list has become one of the most recognized and respected guides for evaluating American higher education institutions.

For the 2015 edition, a variety of colleges in the Northern United States have garnered significant attention for their achievements and reputations, with some institutions standing out more than others in terms of overall rankings, academic quality, and unique attributes. The United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA), Cooper Union, and several others featured prominently in the U.S. News rankings, reflecting both their commitment to excellence and their contributions to regional higher education.

The United States Coast Guard Academy, ranked first in the "Best Regional Colleges of the North" category by U.S. News & World Report in 2015, stands as a distinguished institution with a mission that sets it apart from other colleges. As a federal service academy, the USCGA provides a rigorous academic and military education that prepares students for leadership roles in the United States Coast Guard and other branches of the U.S. military. The Academy, located in New London, Connecticut, is unique in that it is one of the few higher education institutions in the United States that combines a strong emphasis on military training with a broad, liberal arts education. The rankings recognize the institution's well-rounded approach, where cadets are trained in a wide array of disciplines—ranging from engineering and science to humanities and leadership development—while also receiving specialized training to serve in the U.S. Coast Guard. The United States Coast Guard Academy is notable for offering an education without tuition fees, as cadets agree to serve in the Coast Guard after graduation, making it an attractive option for those who are committed to public service and leadership roles within the military.

Following closely behind the United States Coast Guard Academy in the U.S. News rankings is Cooper Union, which earned the second spot on the list of “Best Regional Colleges of the North.” Located in New York City, Cooper Union is renowned for its strong engineering, architecture, and art programs, which attract talented students from across the country and around the world. What sets Cooper Union apart is its long-standing commitment to providing a full-tuition scholarship to every student admitted, regardless of financial background. This distinctive approach to financing education makes Cooper Union a highly sought-after institution, especially for those interested in pursuing careers in the arts, architecture, or engineering without the burden of significant student debt. However, Cooper Union’s model has faced financial challenges in recent years, and in 2014, the school began charging tuition for the first time in more than 150 years. Despite this change, the university’s prestigious reputation for excellence in education, along with its prime location in New York City, continues to make it a top choice for students seeking a high-quality, affordable education in the arts and sciences.

The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point earned the third position on the list of "Best Regional Colleges of the North," cementing its status as one of the most prestigious institutions for those interested in maritime studies and careers. Located on Long Island in New York, the USMMA is a federal service academy that trains officers for the United States Merchant Marine and other maritime-related professions. Students at Kings Point receive a comprehensive education in engineering, business, and the maritime sciences, while also receiving specialized military training that equips them for leadership positions in the Merchant Marine, the U.S. Navy, and other government agencies. The Academy's reputation for academic excellence and its emphasis on preparing graduates for challenging careers in the maritime industry contribute to its high ranking in the U.S. News list. Moreover, like the Coast Guard Academy, the United States Merchant Marine Academy provides an education at no cost to students, as they agree to serve in the Merchant Marine or related branches of the U.S. government upon graduation.

Another notable institution in the 2015 rankings is Messiah College, which earned the fifth position among "Best Regional Colleges in the North." Located in Grantham, Pennsylvania, Messiah College is a private Christian liberal arts institution that has consistently been recognized for its academic quality, commitment to Christian values, and inclusive community environment. The college offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, healthcare, and the humanities. Messiah College has earned a strong reputation for providing a well-rounded education that emphasizes both academic rigor and personal development. The college’s commitment to service and community engagement is also a defining feature, with students encouraged to participate in a wide range of volunteer opportunities both on and off campus. Additionally, Messiah College was ranked among the “Great Schools, Great Price” list by U.S. News, a reflection of its ability to provide a quality education at a relatively affordable cost.

Champlain College, which secured the 14th position in the 2015 rankings for “Best Regional Colleges in the North,” has consistently impressed with its unique approach to higher education. Champlain College, located in Burlington, Vermont, is known for its focus on experiential learning and preparing students for careers in fields such as technology, business, and the arts. The college offers an innovative curriculum that integrates academic study with real-world experience, including internships, study abroad programs, and community engagement initiatives. Champlain’s emphasis on applied learning helps students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly changing job market. In addition to its strong academic programs, Champlain College has also been recognized for its welcoming and inclusive campus culture. The college’s commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment has made it a standout institution in the North. It was also ranked as the top “Up and Comer” college in the region by U.S. News, highlighting its recent growth and increasing reputation as an institution of choice for students seeking a hands-on, career-focused education.

Delaware Valley College, which moved up three places to 19th in the 2015 U.S. News rankings of "Best Regional Colleges" in the North, has demonstrated a continued commitment to providing quality education to students. Located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, DelVal is a private college known for its emphasis on agricultural sciences, environmental sustainability, and the liberal arts. The college has developed a strong reputation in areas such as animal science, horticulture, and agricultural business, and its programs are designed to prepare students for careers in industries that require both technical knowledge and a deep understanding of environmental and agricultural issues. Delaware Valley College has also earned recognition for its commitment to affordability, as it has worked to keep tuition costs reasonable while providing financial aid to students who need it. The college’s rise in the rankings further underscores its continued progress and growing stature as a leading regional college in the North.

The diverse range of institutions included in the 2015 U.S. News rankings of "Best Regional Colleges in the North" highlights the breadth and variety of educational opportunities available to students in the Northeastern United States. These schools, which vary in size, focus, and academic offerings, provide valuable options for students seeking a high-quality education at a college with a unique character and mission. Whether it is the military training and leadership preparation offered at the United States Coast Guard Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy, the academic excellence of institutions like Messiah College and Champlain College, or the specialized programs in agriculture and environmental sciences at Delaware Valley College, these institutions reflect the range of opportunities available to students in the region.

The 2015 U.S. News rankings also underscore the growing emphasis on quality, accessibility, and student outcomes in regional colleges across the United States. As higher education continues to evolve and face new challenges, including rising tuition costs, increasing competition, and shifting student demographics, institutions like these are adapting to meet the needs of students. Their rise in the rankings speaks to their commitment to providing a high-quality education and their role in preparing the next generation of leaders and professionals. For prospective students, the rankings offer a valuable guide for selecting a college that aligns with their academic and personal goals, while also providing insight into the institutions’ commitment to delivering a strong educational experience.