The University of Lynchburg received stellar marks in the U.S. News & World Report 2022-2023 Best Colleges ranking. For the first time, the University is ranked nationally: 219th overall, 45th for Best Value, 209th in Top Performers on Social Mobility, and 413th in Nursing.
This year, U.S. News assessed 1,500 bachelor’s degree-granting institutions in the country — a record — on 17 measures of academic quality. The rankings are based entirely on academic data from its surveys and reliable third-party sources, according to U.S. News.
The most weight was placed on outcome measures, including graduation and retention rates and average graduate indebtedness. Other data points used included average class size, undergraduate academic reputation, and how much colleges invest in instruction and student services. Factors that round out the college experience, such as athletics or student life, were not considered.
“Our students get a one-of-a-kind experience at Lynchburg,” President Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar said. “A Lynchburg education happens not just in the classroom, but in every corner of our campus — and the world. Thanks to our dedicated faculty and staff, students leave Lynchburg prepared to do anything.
“I’m proud that we can provide this experience to anyone, regardless of financial resources, thanks to the generous scholarships and need-based aid we offer.”
In addition to helping students figure out how to pay for college, Lynchburg’s financial aid office helps keep loan amounts reasonable and prepares students to manage their debt responsibly. As a result, Lynchburg’s student loan default rate is just 3%, compared with a national default rate of 11%, according to Niche.com.
The University awards scholarships and financial aid to 100% of students. Because of merit and need-based aid, the average student pays only about $24,000 per year in tuition, room, and board for a private education with small classes, easy access to professors, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 10 to 1.
It’s even more affordable for in-state students due to the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant, and about half the cost — or much less, depending on scholarships and financial aid — for students who commute to campus.
“The value of a Lynchburg degree is incredible, and even more so for our local students,” said Vice President for Enrollment, Communications, and Marketing Mike Jones. “We truly offer a private education at a public price.”
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Allison Jablonski explained what that education looks like.
“At Lynchburg, we offer students many opportunities for intellectual, experiential, and cultural enrichment,” she said. “Our collection of scholars and our commitment to innovative teaching and the community allow exposure to ideas that may be completely different from how students currently think.
“Our hope for students is that their intellectual story will be marked by deep inquiry and an unceasing search for truth and learning.”
You can see Lynchburg’s complete profile here.
Read more about the methodology behind U.S. News’ Best Value ranking.
Read more about the methodology behind the Social Mobility ranking.
