UNL continues listing among nation's best in U.S. News

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The "rankings" are in and UNL once again is listed right around the 100 mark among best national universities – this year at 101, tied with seven other universities at that rank. Last year's ranking was 104 among all national public and private universities.

The 2012 U.S. News and World Report rankings released today no longer include a Top 50 public national university list. UNL was 47th on that list last year, and a count indicates UNL remains within the top 50 universities.

For the first time in 2012 UNL is featured among schools that "get the nod for programs that help undergrads thrive." The UCARE program, Undergraduate Creative Activities and Research Experiences, is included among the 28 best university programs in undergraduate research and creative projects.

Also new in the ranking report this year are "A-Plus Schools for B Students" – UNL is on that list; and "Least Debt" – UNL is on that list as well. In explaining "A-Plus Schools for B Students" U.S. News and World Report says: "So you're a scholar trapped in the GPA of a B student, and your heart is set on a top college. There's hope." The schools on this list admit many applicants whose test scores and class standings put them in "non-A territory." These are "those where nonsuperstars have a decent shot at being accepted and thriving – where spirit and hard work could make all the difference in admissions offices."

Under "Least Debt," UNL is on the best list, with 60 percent of graduates with debt, and average amount of debt of $16,664.

U.S. News collects 15 indicators of academic quality and analyzes the data according to its methodology. Among the indicators are student ACT scores and class rank, peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, class size, faculty-to-student ratio, financial resources and alumni giving.

- Kelly Bartling, University Communications