By Paul Gabrielsen, science writer, University of Utah Communications
The University of Utah is among the best in the nation for value, according to the 2019 Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings. This is the first year the list has included rankings according to universities’ value, and in this inaugural list the U came in at No. 11 in the nation.
“The University of Utah is an institution on the rise,” said Dan Reed, senior vice president for Academic Affairs at the U. “As one of the leading research universities in the nation, the U’s students work directly with leaders in the field and have access to the latest technologies, facilities and resources to provide them with experiences that separate them from their peers. Additionally, as a public institution, our mission is focused on providing this high-quality experience to students from all backgrounds. This ranking affirms that our efforts are fulfilling this charge.”
The U’s overall place in the Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings stands at No. 189 out of nearly 1,000 U.S. colleges and universities, up from No. 312 in 2018’s list, and at No. 42 among U.S. public universities. Among Utah institutions, the U earned the best value ranking in the state.
The value score is based on a university’s total score, which determines its overall ranking. Dividing that total score by the school’s average net price for first-year students who received aid, according to the Wall Street Journal, yields a score that determines the school’s place on the best value list.
Berea College in Kentucky earned the No. 1 spot on the best value list. Its overall ranking was No. 231, but because the college charges no tuition, the average net price was less than $3,000. The U’s net price was $11,322.
“We promise all of our students the opportunity to have an exceptional educational experience,” said Martha Bradley, senior associate vice president for Academic Affairs and dean of Undergraduate Studies at the U. “Modeled after the exceptional patient experience program at our hospital, which is known nationally for its value, this effort ensures that our students leave the U well positioned not only for their first jobs but for their entire careers.”