Iowa Wesleyan University Ranked as Best Regional College for 2021 by U.S. News
Earns Top Rankings in Ethnic Diversity, Economic Diversity and International Students
Mount Pleasant, IA – September 14, 2020 — The 2021 U.S. News and World Report ranked Iowa Wesleyan University (IW) as a Best College in the Midwest. Iowa Wesleyan’s diverse campus received multiple recognitions by U.S. News among regional colleges.
In addition to its overall ranking, Iowa Wesleyan ranked second for all regional Midwest colleges for the number of international students, boasting a student body representing over 30 countries. This is the third consecutive year in which IW has led Iowa in this recognition, adding to a global campus experience for all students.
Iowa Wesleyan was also ranked sixth for ethnic diversity, with 52% of IW’s enrollment represented and the only school in Iowa recognized. Students who attend Iowa Wesleyan have the unique opportunity to live and study on a rural campus with a significant number of students from different racial and ethnic backgrounds.
This year, Iowa Wesleyan was also highly ranked for its commitment to provide educational access for all. Iowa Wesleyan received recognition for its economic diversity, ranking sixth overall in the Midwest. Economic diversity has received growing attention in higher education as the country’s student population is more diverse than ever. Iowa Wesleyan is once again the only college in Iowa represented in this ranking.
“Having our university recognized as one of the best in the Midwest reflects our commitment to fostering a student-centered community and providing an outstanding education that is accessible and affordable,” said Christine Plunkett, university president. “We are extremely proud of the students we serve, and we remain committed to our diverse campus. Rankings such as these validate our commitment to excellent educational experiences that prepare students to lead meaningful lives and careers.”
The U.S. News Best Colleges rankings, now in their 36th year, help students who plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree select a university. This year’s rankings considered several factors including graduation and retention rates; social mobility; faculty resources, which takes into account class size and faculty salary; peer assessment by other universities; financial resources; student excellence, which includes performance on standardized tests and high school class standing; and alumni giving. For more information about the rankings, visit http://colleges.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/best-colleges.