Princeton Review's Best 373 Colleges

The Princeton Review’s Best 373 Colleges for 2011 offers a comprehensive overview of 373 standout colleges and universities across the United States and Canada. This annual guide features detailed profiles of institutions that have garnered praise for their academic quality, campus life, and student satisfaction. It is worth noting that only around 15 percent of America’s 2,500 four-year colleges, as well as a select few Canadian colleges, are included in this prestigious compilation. These institutions are evaluated based on surveys of students currently attending the colleges, which give valuable insight into the student experience. Below are profiles of a few of the prominent schools featured in the 2011 edition of The Princeton Review's Best 373 Colleges, highlighting their achievements in various categories.

University of Delaware

The University of Delaware (UD) holds a prominent spot in the Princeton Review’s Best 373 Colleges for 2011. Located in Newark, Delaware, the university is not only recognized for its academic strength but also for the vibrancy of its campus life. UD is particularly noted for its study abroad program, ranking 16th in the category "Most Popular Study Abroad Program". This ranking speaks volumes about the university’s emphasis on global education and its ability to provide students with enriching international experiences. Additionally, the University of Delaware stands out for its overall atmosphere, earning accolades for school spirit, its approachable administration, and responsive faculty.

Students at UD are consistently enthusiastic about the campus culture. The Princeton Review highlights the beautiful campus and the sense of community that permeates throughout the school. The university’s vibrant campus life creates an environment where students feel supported both academically and socially. This attention to student engagement and involvement in a variety of extracurricular activities is a significant factor in what makes the University of Delaware a standout institution for undergraduates. The Princeton Review also praises the university's commitment to fostering a well-rounded educational experience, one that seamlessly integrates academics with opportunities for students to explore their interests and passions outside the classroom.

Harvey Mudd College

Harvey Mudd College (HMC) in Claremont, California, is a stellar example of a top-tier institution for students pursuing degrees in the fields of math, science, and engineering. For the 14th consecutive year, HMC has earned its place among the nation’s best institutions for undergraduate education. It is an institution that consistently excels in the areas that matter most to students and academics. Among the 373 colleges featured in the 2011 edition of The Princeton Review, HMC was the only institution focused on math, science, and engineering to make the Top 20 lists in two major academic categories: “Professors Get High Marks” (ranked 10th) and “Most Accessible Professors” (ranked 14th).

These rankings underscore the high regard students hold for the quality of teaching and the accessibility of faculty members. At HMC, professors are not only highly respected for their academic prowess but are also recognized for their approachability and dedication to mentoring students. HMC students report having strong, personalized relationships with their professors, which contribute significantly to their academic success and overall college experience.

HMC also ranks 3rd in “Students Study the Most”, reflecting the rigorous academic environment in which students are fully immersed. With an overall academic rating of 99, the highest possible score, Harvey Mudd College provides an unparalleled academic experience, especially for those with a passion for math and science. Beyond academics, the college excels in other areas as well, earning high marks in “Quality of Life” (88) and “Green” initiatives (80). Students at HMC are encouraged to balance their academic pursuits with a healthy lifestyle, supported by a strong campus culture that promotes sustainability and environmental consciousness.

University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati (UC), a public research university located in Cincinnati, Ohio, is another standout in The Princeton Review’s Best 373 Colleges for 2011. UC students and faculty alike share a deep sense of pride in their institution. The university has earned solid ratings in several important categories, including quality of life and fire safety, as well as for its green initiatives, which reflect the school’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The school’s vibrant campus is frequently described by students as a “quilt of culture,” reflecting its diverse and inclusive atmosphere.

UC is also noted for its commitment to student satisfaction. The Princeton Review highlights how students at UC feel that their experience is “very realistic,” with an academic environment that prepares them well for both professional success and personal growth. UC’s focus on creating a realistic and supportive environment allows students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Moreover, its emphasis on sustainability and environmental awareness ensures that students can feel confident in their institution’s efforts to contribute positively to the world. With a focus on providing a well-rounded education and fostering a culture of inclusivity, UC continues to be a top choice for students seeking a comprehensive and engaging college experience.

University of Dayton

The University of Dayton (UD), located in Dayton, Ohio, is also a prominent institution featured in The Princeton Review’s Best 373 Colleges for 2011. UD is renowned not only for its strong academic programs but also for its top-tier student quality of life. The university ranked 20th in “Best Quality of Life”, which speaks to the holistic experience students enjoy while at UD. With an overall score of 96 for quality of life on a scale of 60-99, students describe the campus as a place where they feel supported, valued, and engaged in every aspect of their college journey.

In addition to the quality of life, the university also ranks highly in several other categories, including “School Runs Like Butter” (19th), which measures how smoothly the university is operated, and “Everybody Plays Intramural Sports” (8th). These rankings reflect the smooth organizational structure at UD and the emphasis placed on extracurricular engagement, which enriches the student experience outside of the classroom. Additionally, UD ranks 16th in “Happiest Students” and 18th in “Easiest Campus to Get Around”, further reinforcing the university's reputation for providing an accessible and enjoyable environment for students to live and study.

Conclusion

The Princeton Review's Best 373 Colleges for 2011 offers a glimpse into the unique strengths and attributes of some of the top universities in the United States. Institutions like the University of Delaware, Harvey Mudd College, the University of Cincinnati, and the University of Dayton have earned their places in this prestigious guide due to their excellence in various categories, including academic quality, campus life, student satisfaction, and commitment to sustainability. What makes these institutions stand out is their ability to create an environment where students can thrive not only academically but socially, personally, and professionally. As students look for colleges that offer a comprehensive educational experience, these schools provide compelling options for those seeking excellence in higher education.