Illinois State University remained in the top 200 schools in the nation and moved up in the ranking for public universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. Among public universities, Illinois State jumped to 81st in the nation, up from 83rd last year.
In the magazine, Illinois State is ranked No. 152 under the “Best National Universities,” moving up four spaces from No. 156 last year. The category includes 281 American universities offering a wide range of undergraduate degrees as well as master’s and doctoral degrees.
According to the report, the University rose in the subcategory of smaller classes offered on campus. The report notes 33 percent of classes are 20 students or under, up from 32 percent last year. Illinois State maintained a graduation rate of 71 percent, far above the national average of 56 percent for public universities, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
“Simple numbers rarely give the complete picture of success for a University,” said President Timothy J. Flanagan. “Student success is one of the hallmarks of a great university, and Illinois State will continue on its path to provide an exceptional experience for our students.”
U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on academic quality and excellence. Factors include an undergraduate academic reputation index that is guided by information from high school counselors as well as college and university presidents, provosts and deans. Other factors include student retention, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, alumni giving and graduation rate performance.
