Florida Colleges Get Top Ranking in U.S. News Report


March 9, 2017

Low tuition and high graduation rates have made Florida colleges and universities the best in the nation in a new report, with institutions such as Eastern Florida State College playing a key role in the ranking.

Florida earned top marks in the higher education category in the latest U.S. News and World Report rankings, a prestigious survey that exams a number of higher education criteria.

“As Chancellor of Florida’s 28 colleges, I am proud of the recognition received from U.S. News and World Report for our colleges for consistently offering an affordable education and recognizing our top graduation rates,” said Chancellor Madeline Pumariega.

“These rankings highlight the success of the Florida College System, which provides access to all Floridians seeking higher education as a pathway to the workforce.”

Eastern Florida is a leader in the system, nationally known for its affordable tuition and student achievement.

The college has not raised tuition five straight years, making it one of the most affordable colleges in the nation, according to the U.S Department of Education.

A 2016 Community College Week Magazine analysis of U.S. Department of Education data also placed EFSC among the top colleges in the nation among 1,200 similarly-sized institutions.

EFSC was ranked:
•    36th in awarding Associate Degrees in all disciplines  
•    47th in awarding One-Year Certificates in all disciplines
•    14th in awarding Associate Degrees in Liberal Arts, General Studies, Sciences and Humanities
•    28th in awarding Associate Degrees in Science Technologies and Technicians

“The U.S. News and World Report study is another indication that we’re providing excellent educational opportunities for our students,” said Eastern Florida President Dr. Jim Richey.

“Our programs, including many new ones in business, health care and computer technology where job growth is strong, can lead to great careers after graduation.”

Eastern Florida offers more than 100 degrees and programs, including Bachelor’s Degrees, Associate’s Degrees and College Certificates.

The Florida College System has more than 800,000 students enrolled, and awards more than 100,000 degrees and certificates annually.

To learn more, visit easternflorida.edu and for more on the 28-member state college system visit floridacollegesystem.com