Forbes College Rankings - West Point ranked No. 1

In 2009, Forbes partnered with the Center for College Affordability and Productivity to release its second-annual ranking of America’s best colleges, evaluating 600 undergraduate institutions across the country. This ranking was based on various metrics that emphasized the quality of education, student experience, and outcomes. The Forbes ranking is significant because it considers multiple factors, including academic quality, financial health, student satisfaction, and post-graduation success. It aims to reflect not only the prestige of institutions but also how well they prepare students for life beyond college. In the 2009 edition, several top institutions like the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Princeton University, and the California Institute of Technology topped the list, marking them as the best in the country according to Forbes.

The U.S. Military Academy at West Point secured the number one spot, surpassing prestigious academic institutions like Princeton and Harvard. This ranking highlights the unique nature of West Point, where academic excellence is coupled with rigorous military training and leadership development. West Point’s commitment to preparing students for leadership roles within the U.S. military gives it a distinct advantage in the rankings, emphasizing the value of the experiences it offers beyond just traditional classroom education.

Princeton University, consistently ranked among the best universities globally, followed closely in second place. Its world-renowned faculty, impressive research facilities, and commitment to providing a comprehensive and rigorous liberal arts education contribute to its high ranking. Caltech, known for its focus on science and technology, ranked third, highlighting its excellence in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and research. The institution’s small student body and emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration in scientific fields give it a unique place in the rankings, attracting students who are looking for an intense, research-focused education.

Williams College, a small liberal arts college in Massachusetts, ranked fourth, exemplifying the ongoing appeal of liberal arts education in shaping well-rounded individuals. Harvard University, the iconic Ivy League institution, rounded out the top five, reaffirming its position as one of the most prestigious and academically challenging schools in the world. The ranking is a testament to the university’s long-standing tradition of producing graduates who go on to achieve significant success in various fields.

Wellesley College, an all-women’s institution, ranked sixth, showcasing its strong academic programs, particularly in the humanities and social sciences. The U.S. Air Force Academy ranked seventh, which, like West Point, provides a unique educational experience combining academics with military training, preparing its students for careers in the armed forces. Amherst College, a prestigious liberal arts college, came in eighth, praised for its close-knit community, rigorous academics, and the flexibility it offers students in terms of course selection. Yale University, renowned for its law school and extensive academic programs, was in ninth, followed by Stanford University, which rounds out the top 10 due to its prominence in both the arts and sciences, as well as its entrepreneurial spirit that permeates the campus.

The Forbes list was not only a celebration of the most well-known and prestigious colleges but also highlighted schools that might not have the same national recognition but excelled in providing students with a high-quality education and excellent post-graduation outcomes. The ranking is a reminder that the college experience encompasses much more than just name recognition or prestige—it also reflects the overall student experience, academic challenges, and long-term benefits.

In addition to these top performers, there were several institutions that stood out for their impressive rankings despite not having the same level of fame as the Ivy League or major research universities. Huntington University, a Christian liberal arts college located in Indiana, was ranked 97th overall. This was the second consecutive year the university had earned a spot in the top 100 institutions in the country. The ranking was a testament to Huntington's strong academic offerings, the supportive campus community, and its emphasis on Christian values. Additionally, Huntington was ranked as one of the best private colleges in the Midwest, and its performance on the Forbes list highlighted its strong position among other universities in the region.

The University of La Verne, based in California, also made a notable improvement, ranking 206th in 2009 after a significant jump of 198 positions from the previous year. This dramatic rise was the best of any California school on the Forbes list, signaling an improvement in both the quality of education and student satisfaction. La Verne's rise was particularly impressive considering the competitive nature of California’s higher education system, where schools like Stanford and UCLA dominate. Its recognition on the Forbes list demonstrated that smaller institutions can provide excellent value for students seeking an affordable, quality education in California.

The University of Wyoming’s inclusion in the list as the 17th best public college in the U.S. further emphasizes the growing recognition of state schools outside of the Ivy League and major research institutions. Its ranking was also bolstered by its position as one of America’s best college buys. The university’s relatively low tuition costs combined with its quality of education and strong outcomes after graduation made it an attractive choice for many students. Wyoming’s affordability and emphasis on academic programs that prepare students for careers in high-demand fields contributed to its place among the top institutions in the country.

Abilene Christian University, a Christian university in Texas, ranked 407th overall, placing it in the top 10 percent of U.S. colleges. This position was significant given that it had improved from a ranking of 444th the previous year. Abilene Christian University’s emphasis on providing a supportive, faith-based environment for students helped it gain recognition on the Forbes list, particularly as it outperformed other schools in Texas, including notable private institutions such as Texas Christian University and Baylor University. Abilene Christian’s ranking reflects its growing reputation among Christian colleges, providing students with a strong academic experience along with a nurturing community where faith and learning intersect.

Forbes’ 2009 ranking of the best colleges is an important resource for prospective students and parents who are looking to assess colleges based on various metrics. It provides a comprehensive evaluation of schools that considers not only their academic reputation but also the social experience, student outcomes, and financial value. Schools like West Point, Princeton, and Caltech dominate the rankings, but smaller schools like Huntington University, the University of La Verne, and Abilene Christian University prove that smaller or faith-based institutions can also provide an excellent education and student experience, especially when it comes to outcomes and satisfaction.

Ultimately, the rankings underscore the diversity of colleges and universities across the United States and remind prospective students that the "best" college for one individual may differ drastically from another, depending on what factors matter most—be it academic excellence, campus life, financial aid, or post-graduation success. For many, the Forbes list serves as an informative guide to understanding the wide range of options available and helps students make decisions based on more than just prestige but also on the quality of education and student satisfaction.