Pepperdine Moves Up in U.S. News & World Report’s Rankings of “America’s Best Colleges”

In U.S. News & World Report’s 30th annual ranking of “America’s Best Colleges” released on Sept. 9, 2014, Pepperdine University was identified as one of the top universities in the nation, moving up three places from last year.  

In the newly released numbers, Pepperdine is ranked number 54 out of 201 national universities reviewed by U.S. News & World Report. That ranking places Pepperdine in the top 10 best colleges among California national institutions. National universities are those that offer a full range of undergraduate majors plus master's and PhD programs, and emphasize faculty research. Universities were scored on graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, assessment of excellence, and alumni giving. Pepperdine was ranked number 57 last year.

This year, Pepperdine also ranks number 24 in the "Best Value" category. This ranking places Pepperdine in the top five best value schools among national universities in California. The methodology focused on a school's academic quality and net cost of attendance. Pepperdine's undergraduate business program currently ranks number 51 out of 113 schools reviewed, placing it in the top 50 percent nationwide and number four undergraduate business program in California.

"Pepperdine continues to perform well on U.S. News & World Report's 'Best Colleges' list because of the commitment from everyone connected to Pepperdine. Our students, faculty, administration, and donors are dedicated to ensuring that everything we do is focused on academic excellence, serving our community, and leading with a purpose," said provost Rick Marrs. "We are proud of our institution and accomplishments."