Finance publication Money.com has released its 2024 college ratings and Stanislaus State was tapped as being among the “Best Colleges in America.”
In the analysis that highlights the country’s top 745 colleges based on graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid and alumni salaries, Stan State received five stars, Money.com’s highest rating.
All 23 California State University campuses made the list but only four CSUs earned a five-star designation. Only 50 of the 745 four-year public and private colleges from across the nation included on the list earned five stars.
“We are proud to be one of only 50 universities to have earned a five-star rating as a ‘Best College’ from Money.com,” said Interim President Sue Borrego. “This recognition highlights our deep commitment to providing access, supporting student success and promoting social mobility. Stan State is committed to offering a high-quality, affordable education that enriches the lives of students, their families and the Central Valley.”
CSU Chancellor Mildred Garcia said she was extremely proud to see all 23 CSU universities included on the list.
“While I am very pleased, I am also unsurprised, because the ranking’s criteria reflect the mission and core values of the CSU: authentic access, student success, social mobility, affordability and preparing diverse students for a lifetime of prosperity, fulfillment and service,” Garcia said.
Money.com’s rating system assists students and families with their college search by highlighting the variety and diversity of high-value colleges in the United States. The publication’s star rating is based on data points that include graduation rates, the net cost of attendance and alumni earnings to emphasize institutions that combine quality and affordability.
In its report, Money.com highlighted Stan State’s focus on affordability and student success, particularly the University’s smaller class sizes, which means “increased opportunities to connect with faculty members.”
The publication also noted that the University’s federal designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) gives it access to “grants that expand its ability to teach underrepresented populations” and cited The University’s 69 percent graduation rate.
According to Money.com, the average early career earnings of Stan State graduates is 70 percent more than that of a person without a college degree.
An economic impact study and report released in 2023 showed, in return for their investment, Stan State graduates receive a stream of higher future earnings that continues to grow throughout their working lives. The study also found Stan State students receive $12.10 in higher future earnings for every dollar invested in their education.
The rating is the most recent accolade highlighting the University and its offerings. In 2023, Degreechoices, which focuses solely on graduates’ return on educational investment after starting their careers, ranked Stan State at number eight in California on its annual list of best colleges.
In April, the College of Business Administration’s accounting concentration received an endorsement from the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) - one of the largest and most respected associations focused exclusively on advancing the management accounting profession.
