Washington Monthly College Ranking
The Washington Monthly’s 2011 College Rankings offer a unique perspective on the role of higher education institutions in contributing to the greater good of society through the education of their students. Unlike other rankings that focus solely on academic reputation or selectivity, Washington Monthly places its emphasis on how colleges and universities are making a difference in the lives of their students, communities, and the nation at large. These rankings are a reflection of the ways institutions prioritize service, social mobility, research, and accessibility, providing insights into how well colleges prepare students for citizenship, leadership, and contributing to a common social good. Among the top performers in these 2011 rankings are Berea College, the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), Creighton University, and Tuskegee University, each of which has demonstrated excellence in serving their students and their respective communities.
Berea College in Kentucky topped the list in the 2011 liberal arts college rankings from Washington Monthly, earning the No. 1 spot for its commitment to accessible education and focus on equity and social good. Berea College is unlike many other institutions in the United States due to its unique approach to affordability and social mobility. The institution has remained steadfast in its mission to provide access to higher education to students from low-income backgrounds, offering a “no tuition” promise. This means that students at Berea College work on campus in exchange for their education, reducing the financial burden of attending college. This distinctive model has earned Berea College the distinction of being a "Best Buy" college by Forbes magazine, a recognition that highlights its affordability and commitment to value for students. Berea College’s focus on liberal arts education and its dedication to creating opportunities for underprivileged students make it a standout institution, not just in academics but in the pursuit of equity, opportunity, and community service.
Following closely behind Berea College in the Washington Monthly rankings is Morehouse College, a historically Black liberal arts institution in Atlanta, Georgia, that has long been celebrated for its role in producing leaders and creating opportunities for students from marginalized backgrounds. Morehouse’s commitment to educating students and preparing them for careers in leadership and social change has cemented its position as the second-best liberal arts college in the United States, according to Washington Monthly. Bryn Mawr College, another distinguished liberal arts institution, rounds out the top three. Bryn Mawr is known for its strong academic programs, emphasis on gender equality, and dedication to cultivating a community of intellectual exploration and personal growth. These three institutions—Berea College, Morehouse College, and Bryn Mawr College—highlight the values that Washington Monthly seeks to emphasize: access, opportunity, and a commitment to educating students who will make meaningful contributions to their communities and to broader society.
The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) earned the No. 1 spot in Washington Monthly's 2011 national university rankings, reflecting its impressive achievements in research, innovation, and societal contribution. UCSD is renowned for its cutting-edge research initiatives and diverse academic programs, many of which address critical national and global challenges. As a hub for technological innovation, interdisciplinary research, and student engagement, UCSD has established itself as a leader among national universities, outpacing other prominent institutions such as the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), which secured the second spot, and the University of California, Berkeley, which took third place. UCSD’s strong performance in these rankings is tied to its emphasis on student success, community involvement, and commitment to producing research that has real-world applications, advancing both academic understanding and public policy. The university’s unique ability to combine a world-class education with research opportunities and civic engagement positions it as a driving force in higher education and national progress.
Creighton University, a Jesuit institution in Nebraska, achieved the No. 1 spot in the Washington Monthly national master’s universities rankings, reflecting its dedication to service, social responsibility, and value for students. Creighton has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to providing quality education and ensuring affordability for students. In addition to being ranked first in the master’s universities category by Washington Monthly, U.S. News & World Report also placed Creighton as No. 1 among Midwest Regional universities in 2011. The university’s affordability and return on investment further solidify its position as a "best value" institution in higher education. Creighton’s success in combining academic rigor with an emphasis on service, leadership, and community engagement has allowed its students to graduate prepared for a variety of professional paths while making meaningful contributions to their communities. Creighton’s focus on fostering opportunities for social mobility and its dedication to supporting students economically exemplify the values that Washington Monthly highlights in its rankings.
Tuskegee University is another standout institution that has made significant contributions to the social mobility of its students. Ranked No. 1 in Washington Monthly’s national ranking of the top 50 baccalaureate colleges, Tuskegee University demonstrates excellence in higher education through its commitment to accessibility, ROTC participation, and opportunities for economic advancement. The university has a strong emphasis on service and preparing students to succeed both academically and professionally. According to Washington Monthly, 67 percent of Tuskegee’s students are Pell Grant recipients, a testament to the institution’s dedication to serving students from low-income families. Additionally, Tuskegee’s graduation rate is 7 percent higher than what would be predicted based on its student demographics, reflecting its focus on supporting students and ensuring their academic success. The institution is also second in ROTC participation, providing students with opportunities for military service, leadership development, and professional advancement. Tuskegee’s success in creating pathways for students through affordability, ROTC, and strong academic outcomes underscores its vital role in the social fabric of higher education.
The Washington Monthly 2011 College Rankings emphasize how higher education institutions are making a difference through their missions, resources, and student success rates. These rankings prioritize the social responsibility of colleges, focusing on their ability to educate students, support social mobility, and produce research that addresses pressing national and international issues. Institutions such as Berea College, UCSD, Creighton University, and Tuskegee University exemplify how colleges can balance academic excellence, affordability, service, and innovation. From creating access for low-income students to advancing research and leadership opportunities, these institutions represent the goals and vision of the Washington Monthly rankings.
Higher education institutions play a vital role in shaping the future of their students and contributing to the collective well-being of their communities and nations. The institutions highlighted in these rankings provide compelling examples of how colleges can rise to these responsibilities through innovative programs, affordability, academic excellence, and service. By focusing on the greater good, these universities and colleges are producing graduates who are equipped to face contemporary challenges and create positive change across the globe.
Comments