ALFRED - Alfred State ranks seventh among top public schools/regional colleges (North) according to the 2013 U.S. News & World Report's Best Colleges report for the second year in a row.
Additionally, Alfred State ranked 23rd on the list of top regional colleges in the North, up from the 25th spot last year. Alfred State was also included in the rankings of those colleges with the highest average freshman retention rate, coming in at 74 percent. These figures represent a gain over previous year's rankings.
U.S. News & World Report's annual ranking studies more than 1,600 schools nationwide and is the most trusted and comprehensive research tool students and parents look to when considering higher education choices.
Dr. John M. Anderson, Alfred State president, attributes the top ranking and Alfred State's increased ranking on the list to the compelling relevancy Alfred's project-based learning has on students and employers alike.
"The way we approach project-based learning is unique to us in many ways which is why it has become a cornerstone of our culture," said Anderson. "Our focus is on teaching students how to think - not what to think - and that is something that resonates extremely well with employers. In fact, it is the reason why we are able to boast a 99 percent employment and transfer rate."
The category of 'top public schools' refers to public colleges and universities from small liberal arts colleges to large research institutions. The 'regional colleges' category on the report encompasses schools that focus almost exclusively on the undergraduate experience while offering a broad range of programs in the liberal arts and in fields such as business, nursing, and education.
Alfred State is a member of the technology college sector within the SUNY system. The College offers 52 associate degree programs, 20 baccalaureate degree programs, and three certificate programs in addition to an array of online programs.