The University of Lynchburg has been recognized as part of the 2021 PLEXUSS Global Rankings. Lynchburg ranked No. 1 in Virginia for criminology programs, No. 5 for public health programs, and No. 5 for education management programs.
Criminology is among the University’s most popular undergraduate majors, with 148 students enrolled this spring.
“When you consider that there are about 20 criminology programs in Virginia, this recognition documents the quality here at the University of Lynchburg in developing students for work and study in criminology,” said Dr. Kim McCabe, chair of the criminology department at Lynchburg. “I’m both honored and proud to be a part of our department.”
Dr. Rusty Smith, dean of Lynchburg’s College of Health Sciences, was more than thrilled by the recognition the public health program received. “Congratulations to the team!” he wrote in an email. “A loud shout-out to [professors] Jenny Hall and Tonya Price on their leadership.
“We know they are making a difference in the lives of our students! How exciting to see that others outside the University also recognize their excellence! Thank you for your dedication and commitment!”
Lynchburg offers a Master of Public Health, in addition to various other undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate health sciences degrees.
In the College of Education, Leadership Studies, and Counseling, which includes various MEd options and an EdD, the news was received with equal excitement. Dr. Roger Jones, former dean of the College and now associate provost and dean of graduate studies, said he is proud of what the program has accomplished.
“I am very proud of the program we have built and sustained, but I am most proud of our graduates who make a daily impact on the lives of students and communities,” Jones said.
“Whatever ranking we achieve is a direct result of our graduates in the field and the school divisions that support us by allowing our students to be engaged with internships and field experiences that promote their learning.”
It is indeed all about the students, according to PLEXUSS.
“Our rankings have been years in the making and are based on student demand and preferences,” PLEXUSS Chairman JP Novin said. “Thousands of our students told us they wanted to be able to search rankings information intuitively and dynamically. Students also wanted more in-depth rankings of the programs and institutions they were most likely to attend.”
Gary Estrabo, director of ranking programs at PLEXUSS, agreed. “In addition to student feedback, our rankings and methodology incorporate extensive input from education partners, data scientists, employers, parents, and high school counselors,” he said.
“The PLEXUSS Global Rankings were developed with one group in mind — students! As students and parents become savvier about college selection, we believe the PLEXUSS Global Rankings are a powerful tool for students to evaluate all their postsecondary options.”
According to PLEXUSS, over seven million students rely on the site and its app as they plan for college and careers.
