Recognized for Excellence: How Valparaiso University is Getting National Attention
September 18 , 2023– Valparaiso University is dedicated to creating a first-class college experience, and that dedication has garnered the attention of publications, national reviewers and state representatives. The University prides itself on its exceptional courses, facilities and expert faculty members and is proud to be recognized for its efforts.
“The recognition bestowed upon Valparaiso University is a validation of the collective efforts of our faculty, students and staff to be a premiere higher education institution dedicated to excellence,” said Eric Johnson ’87, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “We are deeply grateful for this acknowledgement, and it strengthens our resolve to continue to shape the future of higher education.”
The University continues its three-decades long legacy of being recognized as one of the best choices in higher education by U.S. News & World Report. The College of Engineering continues to maintain an impressive position on the U.S News and World Report list, coming in at #14 in the nation. The University was also recognized on the Best Undergraduate Nursing Programs, Best Undergraduate Business Programs and Best Undergraduate Computer Science programs lists.
In addition to Valpo’s stellar programs, the University was recognized as being in the top 50 best value institutions in the United States. Washington Monthly placed Valparaiso University in its 2023 Top National University Rankings due to the institution’s significant contribution to the public good, as well as placing Valpo on its Best Bang for the Buck: Midwest list.
Valpo’s College of Engineering had an amazing year as national and global engineering leaders. Dean Doug Tougaw began his term as the president of the American Society for Engineering Education, leading the way for the future of how engineering is taught in higher education across the United States. Meanwhile, the James S. Markiewicz Solar Energy Research Facility has been a partner on multiple grants from the Department of Energy geared toward creating a more sustainable future.
The College of Business has been recognized by Forbes as #5 on the list of top green MBA programs in the country. This distinction shows that our College of Business students are being prepared to navigate issues surrounding environmental protection, sustainability and social responsibility thanks to the program.
The College of Nursing and Health Professions has made great strides in filling the health care needs of Northwest Indiana and beyond by adding and updating programs. The recently added entry-level occupational therapy doctorate program is providing professionals in a field that is expected to see rapid employment increase in the next 10 years. The College’s Simulation and Experiential Learning Centers have received the attention of U.S. Representative Frank J. Mrvan, who has helped ensure a federal earmark of $1 million to update their equipment.
The Wall Street Journal and College Pulse also recognized Valparaiso University this year, putting our institution on their list of America’s Best Colleges for 2024. This recognition was based on feedback from graduates, as well as a study of student outcomes on factors such as graduation rates, salary impact and the number of years to pay off the net price.
Valparaiso University has produced graduates who have taken on leadership challenges across Indiana and the world. Our alumni have received recognition from some of the most prestigious programs, including the Orr Fellowship, the Rangel Graduate Fellowship Program and the Fulbright Scholarship program. A placement rate of over 95% is clear evidence of a strong return on investment for any Beacon.
The benefits of a Valpo education go beyond career and academic achievement, as The Atlantic recently named Valparaiso University’s Christ College — The Honors College as one of the few in the nation teaching what they call a “how to live” curriculum. Forbes has recently given the University a financial grade of A-, and College Factual puts the University in the top 20% in the nation for overall quality.
Valparaiso University will continue to improve, flourish and earn national and global recognition. Our five-year strategic plan Uplift Valpo: Our Beacon for the Journey Forward, with its emphasis on learning, serving, leading and thriving, promises to bring the University to an ever-brighter future as it shifts and evolves to meet an ever-changing world. Students of all backgrounds can be assured that Valpo’s groundbreaking programs, expert faculty and amazing facilities will be there to provide a truly exceptional learning experience now and in the future.
