100 Best Colleges for your Money

In the evolving landscape of higher education, students and their families are faced with increasingly difficult decisions about where to attend college. A key factor in these decisions is not just the reputation or prestige of an institution, but also the return on investment — how well the cost of attending a college translates into educational value, career opportunities, and financial outcomes after graduation. Money magazine’s “Best Colleges for Your Money” list for 2016-17 highlights colleges that provide the best combination of quality, affordability, and career outcomes. Among the institutions that stand out in this list are the University of Florida, Loyola University Maryland, Bethel University, McDaniel College, and Elmhurst College, all of which have demonstrated significant achievements in delivering value to their students.

The University of Florida (UF) has become one of the top-ranked public universities in the nation when it comes to providing a great education at an affordable price. In Money magazine’s ranking for 2016-17, UF jumped significantly, moving from 8th place among public institutions in the previous year to 6th, and from 30th overall to 15th. This impressive rise reflects the university’s continued commitment to providing a high-quality education while keeping costs manageable for students. UF’s strong showing in the ranking is a direct result of its ability to combine rigorous academic programs, a diverse range of career-oriented opportunities, and competitive tuition rates, making it a solid choice for students looking to get the most value for their money.

UF’s overall ranking is supported by its exceptional graduation rates, which are well above the national average for public universities. The university has consistently improved its academic programs, expanding opportunities for students to engage in internships, research, and real-world experiences that enhance their employability. Additionally, UF has a broad alumni network that supports graduates throughout their careers. Graduates of UF report strong earnings within a few years of completing their degree, making it clear that the investment in a UF education leads to successful career outcomes. The university’s affordability is bolstered by a robust financial aid system that helps ensure that students from all backgrounds have access to the resources necessary to complete their studies without incurring overwhelming debt.

Another university that earned a spot on Money’s prestigious list is Loyola University Maryland. Loyola’s ranking places it in the top quarter of all U.S. colleges and universities, which is a significant achievement given the list evaluates over 700 institutions. Money’s methodology for ranking colleges focuses on three main criteria: quality of education, affordability, and the outcomes that students experience post-graduation. Loyola University Maryland stands out due to its impressive outcomes, particularly its alumni salary figures. Within five years of graduation, Loyola alumni report an average salary of $51,900, ranking the school in the top 14 percent of all schools evaluated by Money. This data indicates that Loyola provides a solid return on investment for students, offering not only a high-quality education but also valuable career opportunities that translate into strong earnings after graduation.

In addition to its positive salary outcomes, Loyola offers an education that is grounded in its Jesuit values, emphasizing critical thinking, social responsibility, and ethical decision-making. Loyola’s commitment to developing the whole student — academically, socially, and personally — ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of the modern workforce. The university also offers numerous support services, including career counseling, internship opportunities, and mentorship programs, all of which help students build the skills and connections they need to succeed professionally. For students seeking both academic rigor and a focus on personal development, Loyola University Maryland is an excellent choice.

Bethel University, a private Christian university located in St. Paul, Minnesota, made a notable appearance on Money magazine’s list in 2016, ranking 82nd among the top 100 institutions for delivering the best value. This recognition marks a significant achievement for Bethel, as it is the first time the university has made the top 100. Bethel’s impressive performance on the list was also highlighted by the fact that it had the third most improved score from the previous year, demonstrating the university’s growing strength in providing value to its students. Bethel University offers a distinctive education that blends liberal arts with Christian principles, preparing students for success not only in their careers but also as engaged citizens who can contribute to the world around them.

Bethel’s ranking reflects its affordable tuition rates combined with a commitment to producing strong outcomes for its graduates. Students at Bethel benefit from a close-knit community where faculty members are dedicated to providing personalized attention and mentorship. This individualized support, coupled with the university’s focus on leadership development, helps students build a strong foundation for their professional lives. Many Bethel graduates go on to work in careers that require high levels of critical thinking and problem-solving, and they report high levels of satisfaction with their jobs and careers. Bethel University’s position on the list highlights the growing recognition of its commitment to delivering high-quality, affordable education to its students.

McDaniel College, located in Westminster, Maryland, was ranked 100th on Money’s 2016 list, joining the ranks of institutions that provide significant value to their students. McDaniel is recognized for delivering a strong liberal arts education at an affordable price, preparing students for success in a variety of fields. The college’s inclusion on Money’s list of "The 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges" and "The 50 Most Affordable Private Colleges" demonstrates its commitment to accessibility and educational excellence. McDaniel also ranked among the “Best 50 Colleges That You Can Actually Get Into,” indicating that it offers opportunities for a diverse range of students to access a high-quality education.

McDaniel College’s approach to education is rooted in personalized learning, with a focus on small class sizes, individual attention, and a supportive campus environment. The college offers a broad array of academic programs, from the sciences and humanities to business and the arts, ensuring that students are well-equipped to pursue a variety of careers. McDaniel also emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships, research projects, and service learning. These hands-on experiences help students build the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their careers. With its strong academic programs, affordable tuition, and commitment to preparing students for success, McDaniel College offers a high return on investment for those looking to pursue a well-rounded education.

Elmhurst College, located in Elmhurst, Illinois, is another institution featured in Money magazine’s list for 2016. Elmhurst was ranked 6th among all colleges and universities in Illinois, and 120th on the nationwide list of top institutions. The college also earned recognition for being among the “50 Best Colleges You Can Actually Get Into,” an important consideration for students who may be concerned about the competitiveness of selective admissions processes. Elmhurst College offers a strong liberal arts education with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that a wide range of students can benefit from the academic opportunities available.

Elmhurst’s ranking reflects its emphasis on providing high-quality academics while maintaining reasonable tuition costs. The college is committed to ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for success in their careers. Elmhurst offers numerous programs that allow students to engage in experiential learning, including internships, service learning, and study abroad opportunities. The college’s strong support system, including academic advising, career counseling, and alumni connections, ensures that students have the resources they need to succeed both during their time at the college and after graduation. Elmhurst College’s dedication to providing a high-quality, affordable education makes it a strong choice for students looking to maximize the value of their college investment.

In conclusion, the colleges featured on Money magazine’s “Best Colleges for Your Money” list for 2016-17 represent a diverse range of institutions that are committed to providing high-quality education at an affordable price. From public institutions like the University of Florida to private colleges such as Loyola University Maryland, Bethel University, McDaniel College, and Elmhurst College, each of these schools has demonstrated that they offer students the opportunity to earn a degree that provides significant value. By focusing on academic excellence, career outcomes, and affordability, these institutions ensure that students can graduate with the skills, knowledge, and experiences they need to succeed in the professional world without incurring excessive debt.