McPherson College Earns Top 20 Ranking in U.S. News Report
Institution recognized for 10th consecutive year, also receives Best Value and Social Mobility honors
McPherson College has been ranked within the top 20 Regional Colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report's 2025-26 Best Colleges list, marking the institution's 10th consecutive year of recognition on the prestigious rankings.
The college also earned placement on two additional lists: Best Value Schools and Top Performers on Social Mobility. The Best Value designation is reserved for schools in or near the top half of their categories that demonstrate exceptional academic quality relative to cost.
"It is an honor to be included on such a well-respected list," said President Michael Schneider. "It's further proof that McPherson College is being recognized for the work being done by our faculty and staff to ensure quality education, excellent student experience, and value."
The Social Mobility recognition highlights the college's success in enrolling and graduating large proportions of students awarded Pell Grants. U.S. News evaluates this category based on borrower debt levels and graduate earnings in addition to Pell Grant recipients.
McPherson College's Student Debt Project, designed to help students graduate with minimal or no debt, contributes to the institution's strong rankings performance. The college reports nearly three-fourths of graduates secure jobs or graduate school placement before graduation, representing some of the highest placement rates nationally.
"Combined with our focus on eliminating student debt, we are proving to students and families that a McPherson College education is the best choice," Schneider noted.
The recognition comes as the college completes significant campus improvements, including the opening of the 55,000-square-foot Campus Commons student services hub. The expansion has increased campus size by 20%, with nearly half of existing buildings undergoing renovation, including all residence halls, Holman Fieldhouse, and various academic facilities.
U.S. News & World Report has ranked colleges for over 40 years using 17 academic quality metrics, with emphasis on outcomes including retention, graduation rates, and average graduate indebtedness. The rankings also consider class size, academic reputation, and institutional investment in instruction and student services.
In 2023, McPherson College secured a $1 billion endowment commitment, marking one of the largest single commitments for a small liberal arts college in the United States.
Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below: