GVSU named to Money's 'Best Colleges in America' list

Grand Valley has been named to the 2024 list of "Best Colleges in America" by Money.

GVSU joins a list of 745 ranked public and private schools nationwide that were named after an analysis of institutions providing applicants the best value for their money. That analysis includes a five-star rating system, and GVSU was one of six public universities in Michigan to receive at least four stars.

To be included in the rankings, schools needed to have at least 500 undergraduate students, have sufficient data to be reviewed and not be in financial distress. In addition, a school needed to have a graduation rate that is at or above the median in its institutional category, or have a high "value-added" graduation rate, according to Money.

“GVSU’s dedication to offering value and a blending of classroom and professional experience allows learners to pursue their dreams,” said President Philomena V. Mantella. “This commitment has led to us being one of the leading producers of graduates who stay in Michigan, which benefits both our students and our region.”

The analysis focused on above-average graduation rates while scoring in three key areas: quality, affordability and future earning potential.

Money said it switched in 2022 to the star rating rather than numerical ranking to provide "users a more useful and nuanced research experience."