Money Magazine Ranks Wheeling University the Best College in West Virginia

October 14, 2024

Money Magazine Ranks Wheeling University the Best College in West Virginia

Wheeling, W.Va., October 14 - Money Magazine analyzed data from nearly 750 four-year colleges across the country and scored Wheeling University as the top institution in West Virginia this year.

According to the magazine, the 745 schools it ranked were chosen from a starting list of more than 2,400 institutions made up of four-year public and private non-profit colleges and universities from across the country. The magazine then analyzed those institutions based on 25 factors in three categories: quality of education, affordability, and outcomes focused on earnings 10 years after college entry.

Wheeling University received four and a half stars, out of a possible five stars by the magazine.

"This University is proud to be recognized as one of the best universities in the country and the top institution in West Virginia. Money Magazine's rankings recognize Wheeling University's ability to provide students with a quality, affordable education. The rankings show our graduates are successful in their careers and in their communities when upon graduation," said Dr. Dianna Vargo, Wheeling's president.

According to Money, college costs remain one of the primary reasons students choose not to attend college or struggle to graduate once they do. The magazine believes its rankings offer families the data needed to make informed decisions about where to spend their tuition dollars. The magazine notes, "The Best Colleges' ratings combine the most accurate pricing estimates available with indicators of alumni financial success, along with an analysis of how much value a college adds when compared to other schools that take in similar students."

"Our ranking is proof of our faculty and staff's commitment to providing a high-quality education that is accessible to all students. Wheeling University is an outstanding option for students looking for an affordable institution that is focused on educating the whole person," Vargo added.

U.S. News & World Report also ranked Wheeling University as a top institution in the region. In its annual Best College's Guide, U.S. News scored Wheeling University at 57th among Regional Universities in the South region (tied with four other institutions). Additionally, the University received high marks for Social Mobility ranking 29th among institutions in the South region.