Academic excellence cited in college guide

Tue, July 28, 2009 |

Valparaiso University's outstanding academics, supportive campus atmosphere and active social life again have received recognition in a national publication.

Valpo is among the institutions of higher education featured in the new edition of The Best 371 Colleges, published by the Princeton Review and released today, July 28. Approximately 15 percent of four-year colleges and universities in the United States are listed in the guide.

In The Best 371 Colleges guide, Valpo was cited as a serious academic community that prepares and motivates tomorrow's leaders and professionals while also providing a variety of opportunities for religious growth. The guide noted that Valpo undergraduates appreciate the breadth and quality of Valpo's academic programs and the institution's ability to integrate liberal arts and professional education.

Valpo's undergraduate meteorology program is cited as one of the best in the nation, with students having the opportunity to work with a state-of-the-art Doppler radar located on campus.

The guide highlighted a diverse array of activities that add to campus social life, including philanthropic dances sponsored by Greek organizations, concerts, guest speakers, Division I athletics and intramural sports. Valpo's close proximity to Chicago and Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and the recreational and cultural activities they offer also were cited by students. Valpo ranked No. 18 on Princeton Review's "Don't Inhale" list of institutions where students are least likely to use marijuana.

The Princeton Review, which began publishing its guide in 1992, compiles its rankings based on surveys of students and data provided by colleges. The guide is available in bookstores now.

In August 2008, the University's academic quality was ranked among the top master's level universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report for the 20th consecutive year, and cited as an institution "everyone should be watching" in recognition of its innovations and improvements.