Bernell DorroughWashington University’s undergraduate program ranked number nine in a recent report by U.S. News & World Report magazine. This new status marks a jump from last year’s 12th place slot. The University tied with Dartmouth College.
Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton commented on the University’s highest position in its history.
“It is rewarding to see the recognition of the outstanding quality of our university,” he said. “The talented and creative students, faculty and staff are the key. Importantly, we have been supported and guided generously by those who preceded us and by those who are leading and supporting the campaign for Washington University. I am excited about this year, our 150th anniversary, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to enhance the quality of the university and its value to the society we serve.”
“I’m very proud of Washington University being in the top ten. It’s great news, and it’s well deserved,” said Howard Taylor, father of sophomore Lindsay Taylor.
Bob Freeman, father of incoming freshman Lauren Freeman said that his anticipation of upward mobility in the school’s ranking was one reason he wanted his daughter to attend the University.
“We were discussing the options,” he said. “We just thought that Washington University had a lot more potential to improve. My sense is that this is really an emerging top flight school. It’s every bit as valuable of an education as any Ivy League.”
Lauren agreed.
“I think it’s really exciting,” she said. “Washington University’s getting better and it’s something to look forward to.”
The School of Engineering and Applied Science saw improvement as well, coming in at 38th, an increase in position by six places. It is now tied with 10 others for this position.
“Moving up in rankings is only one benchmark among a number of them,” said Christopher I. Byrnes, Ph.D., dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science, in a statement made earlier Thursday. “Those include quality and number of applicants, number of patents held by faculty, professional achievements and awards and student achievements, to name a few indicators of the stature of engineering.”
John M. Olin School of Business stayed consistent as the 14th best business school among national universities.
Stuart I. Greenbaum, Ph.D., dean of the Olin School of Business commented on the timing of this new ranking.
“We share in the delight of everyone at Washington University to be a top-10 school,” said Greenbaum in a press release. “In our Sesquicentennial year, it inspires all of us at the Olin School to keep moving, keep growing and be the best.”