UR campus

UR earns highest ranking ever from U.S. News & World Report

September 14, 2020

University News

In the latest U.S. News & World Report college guide, UR earned the highest ranking in its history, coming in at No. 22 among national liberal arts colleges.

Last year, the University was ranked No. 23. Richmond also secured top 25 spots throughout other categories in the “Best Colleges 2021” guide.

As No. 25 in the best value list, Richmond is among only 1% of U.S. institutions with both a need-blind admission policy and a guarantee to meet 100% of demonstrated need for traditional undergraduate applicants. All first-year applicants are considered for merit-based aid, including full-tuition scholarships and a variety of interest-based programs.

For the third consecutive year, Richmond was named to the most innovative schools list and ranked No. 18 among national liberal arts colleges. This category highlights colleges that lead in making improvements for faculty and students in curriculum, campus life, technology, or facilities. The ranking is the result of a peer assessment survey completed by college presidents, provosts, and admissions deans.

Richmond also was highlighted in the study abroad category of the academic programs to look for list, coming in at No. 24. This honor recognizes schools whose study abroad programs involve substantial academic work abroad for credit — a year, a semester, or an intensive experience equal to a course — and considerable interaction with the local culture. UR’s student population represents more than 70 countries, and approximately 65% of students graduate with an international experience.

Additional rankings include No. 97 for undergraduate business programs and No. 43 for undergraduate teaching among national liberal arts colleges. 

The full U.S. News & World Report guide can be found at usnews.com/best-colleges.