For 10th Time, Pitt Named Best Value in State

PITTSBURGH—For the 10th consecutive year, the University of Pittsburgh ranks as the top value among all public colleges and universities in Pennsylvania. The University has been named to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance’s 2015 list of 100 public colleges nationwide with the best value.

“The University of Pittsburgh is a generator of knowledge that allows students to develop a broad capacity for lifelong learning. Kiplinger’s has consistently recognized the remarkable value the University provides,” said Pitt Chancellor Patrick Gallagher. “In today’s knowledge-driven economy, education has never been more important. Pitt’s best-value reputation attracts students who are eager to work hard and take advantage of the broad spectrum of academic and research opportunities available at the University.”

The ranking cites four-year schools that combine an outstanding education with economic value. Kiplinger’s assesses quality according to measurable standards, including the admission rate, the percentage of students who return for sophomore year, the student-faculty ratio, and the four-year graduation rate. Cost criteria include sticker price, financial aid, and average debt at graduation. Many schools have appeared on the list multiple times, a testament to the consistent value these colleges and universities provide.

“We salute this year’s top schools,” says Janet Bodnar, editor of Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine. “Balancing top-quality education with affordable cost is a challenge for families in today’s economy, which is why Kiplinger’s rankings are such a valuable resource. The schools on the 2015 list offer students the best of both worlds.”

The complete rankings are accessible online at kiplinger.com/links/college. The rankings will also appear in the February 2015 issue of Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, which will be available on newsstands Jan. 6.

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12/18/14/klf/cm