& Universities
The Midwest region of the United States is home to many excellent colleges and universities. These institutions offer a wide range of academic programs, from liberal arts to engineering to business. Students in the Midwest have access to some of the best higher education options in the country, and many of these schools have earned national recognition for their academic excellence.
Each year, various organizations release rankings of the best colleges in the Midwest. These rankings take into account factors such as graduation rates, student-to-faculty ratios, and post-graduation employment rates. While rankings are not the only factor to consider when choosing a college, they can be a helpful starting point for students who are trying to narrow down their options. In this article, we will explore some of the top colleges in the Midwest and what makes them stand out.
Methodology
When selecting the best colleges in the Midwest, it is essential to use a rigorous methodology that takes into account various factors. The following methodology was used to determine the best colleges in the Midwest:
Data Collection
To gather data, the researchers used a variety of sources, including college websites, government databases, and college ranking websites. The data collected included information on student demographics, graduation rates, retention rates, faculty-to-student ratios, and more.
Criteria
The researchers used a set of criteria to determine the best colleges in the Midwest. The criteria included academic excellence, affordability, diversity, student satisfaction, and career outcomes. Each criterion was given a weight based on its importance.
Scoring
Each college was given a score based on how well it performed in each criterion. The scores were then weighted and combined to create an overall score for each college.
Analysis
The researchers analyzed the data to determine the best colleges in the Midwest. The colleges were ranked based on their overall score, with the highest-scoring college being ranked first.
Using this methodology, the researchers were able to determine the best colleges in the Midwest objectively and without bias. The methodology ensured that the colleges were evaluated based on their performance in various areas, providing a comprehensive view of each college’s strengths and weaknesses.
Illinois
Illinois is home to some of the most prestigious and highly-ranked colleges in the Midwest. Here are three of the top universities in Illinois:
University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is a private research university located in Chicago, Illinois. It is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the world, and is known for its rigorous academic programs and intellectual atmosphere. The University of Chicago is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities, and has produced numerous Nobel laureates, Rhodes Scholars, and MacArthur Fellows.
The University of Chicago offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in a wide range of fields, including business, law, medicine, and the humanities. The university is particularly well-known for its economics program, which is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world.
Northwestern University
Northwestern University is a private research university located in Evanston, Illinois, just north of Chicago. It is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong reputation for its academic programs, particularly in the fields of journalism, law, and medicine.
Northwestern University is also known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in football and basketball. The university’s football team has won eight Big Ten championships, while its men’s basketball team has made multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a public research university located in Champaign, Illinois. It is the flagship campus of the University of Illinois system and is known for its strong programs in engineering, computer science, and agriculture.
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is also home to one of the largest and most diverse student bodies in the Midwest. The university has a long history of promoting diversity and inclusion, and is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.
Indiana
Indiana is home to several prestigious colleges and universities, making it a popular destination for students seeking quality higher education in the Midwest. In this section, we will take a closer look at two of the top universities in Indiana: University of Notre Dame and Purdue University.
University of Notre Dame
The University of Notre Dame is a private Catholic research university located in Notre Dame, Indiana. It was founded in 1842 and has since become a renowned institution for its academic excellence and strong athletic programs. Notre Dame offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs in various fields, including business, engineering, law, and medicine.
One of the notable features of Notre Dame is its strong commitment to Catholicism and its religious traditions. The university has a beautiful campus that features several chapels, including the iconic Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Additionally, Notre Dame is home to the Hesburgh Library, which is one of the largest theological libraries in the world.
Purdue University
Purdue University is a public research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. It was founded in 1869 and has since become a leading institution for its excellence in engineering, technology, and science. Purdue offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across ten colleges and schools.
One of the notable features of Purdue is its strong focus on research and innovation. The university is home to several research centers and institutes, including the Birck Nanotechnology Center and the Purdue Research Park. Additionally, Purdue is known for its world-renowned engineering program, which has produced several notable alumni, including Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon.
In conclusion, Indiana is home to several top colleges and universities, including the University of Notre Dame and Purdue University. These institutions offer students a wide range of academic programs and opportunities to excel in their chosen fields.
Iowa
Iowa is home to several highly-regarded colleges and universities, making it a popular destination for students seeking a top-quality education in the Midwest. In this section, we will take a closer look at two of the top colleges in Iowa: the University of Iowa and Grinnell College.
University of Iowa
The University of Iowa is a public research university located in Iowa City. Founded in 1847, it is the oldest and second-largest university in the state of Iowa. The university is known for its strong programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences, and is particularly well-regarded for its writing programs.
The University of Iowa is home to over 30,000 students, and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its 11 colleges. Some of the most popular majors at the university include business, engineering, and health sciences.
In addition to its academic programs, the University of Iowa is also known for its strong athletics programs. The university’s football and basketball teams are particularly popular, and the university has a strong tradition of producing successful athletes.
Grinnell College
Grinnell College is a private liberal arts college located in Grinnell, Iowa. Founded in 1846, it is one of the oldest colleges in the state, and is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social justice.
Grinnell College has a student population of around 1,700, and offers a wide range of majors across its three academic divisions: humanities, social studies, and natural sciences. The college is particularly well-regarded for its programs in the sciences, and is known for its strong commitment to undergraduate research.
In addition to its academic programs, Grinnell College is also known for its strong commitment to social justice and community service. The college has a number of programs and initiatives aimed at promoting social justice and community engagement, and is known for its active and engaged student body.
Kansas
Kansas is home to several excellent colleges and universities that offer a wide range of academic programs. In this section, we will take a closer look at two of the top universities in Kansas.
University of Kansas
The University of Kansas (KU) is a public research university located in Lawrence, Kansas. It is the largest university in the state of Kansas, with a student population of over 28,000. The university is known for its strong programs in the arts, humanities, and sciences.
KU has several highly-ranked programs, including its School of Education, which is ranked 8th among public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The university is also known for its School of Engineering, which is ranked 38th among public universities.
In addition to its strong academic programs, KU is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets and the Center for Computational Biology. These centers provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and gain valuable hands-on experience.
Kansas State University
Kansas State University (KSU) is a public research university located in Manhattan, Kansas. It is the oldest public university in the state of Kansas, with a history dating back to 1863. KSU is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and veterinary medicine.
KSU has several highly-ranked programs, including its College of Veterinary Medicine, which is ranked 3rd in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. The university is also known for its College of Engineering, which is ranked 70th among public universities.
In addition to its strong academic programs, KSU is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Biosecurity Research Institute and the Institute for Environmental Research. These centers provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and gain valuable hands-on experience.
Michigan
Michigan is a state in the Midwest region of the United States, known for its Great Lakes and its contributions to the automotive industry. Michigan is also home to several top-ranked colleges and universities.
University of Michigan
The University of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, is a public research university that is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the country. It is also one of the founding members of the Association of American Universities. The University of Michigan offers over 250 degree programs across its 19 schools and colleges, including the highly ranked Ross School of Business and College of Engineering.
The University of Michigan has a highly selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 23%. The university is also known for its strong athletic programs, particularly in football and basketball. Notable alumni include former President Gerald Ford, Google co-founder Larry Page, and actress Lucy Liu.
Michigan State University
Michigan State University, located in East Lansing, is another top-ranked public research university in Michigan. It is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, and business. Michigan State University offers over 200 academic programs across its 17 degree-granting colleges.
Michigan State University has a slightly higher acceptance rate than the University of Michigan, at around 66%. The university is also known for its successful athletic programs, particularly in basketball and football. Notable alumni include NBA player Draymond Green, former NFL player Morten Andersen, and actress Kristen Bell.
Overall, Michigan is home to several top-ranked colleges and universities, including the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. These institutions offer a variety of academic programs and opportunities for students to excel both academically and athletically.
Minnesota
Minnesota is home to some of the best colleges in the Midwest. In this section, we will take a closer look at two of the top colleges in Minnesota: the University of Minnesota and Carleton College.
University Of Minnesota
The University of Minnesota, located in Minneapolis, is one of the largest universities in the Midwest. It is a public research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university has a strong reputation for its research, particularly in the fields of science and technology.
The University of Minnesota has several campuses across the state, but the main campus in Minneapolis is the most well-known. The campus is home to over 50,000 students and offers a diverse range of programs, including business, engineering, education, and more.
One of the most notable features of the University of Minnesota is its commitment to sustainability. The university has implemented several green initiatives, including a bike-sharing program, a composting program, and a solar panel installation project.
Carleton College
Carleton College, located in Northfield, is a small liberal arts college with a strong reputation for academic excellence. The college has a student body of around 2,000 students and offers a wide range of majors, including biology, chemistry, economics, and more.
Carleton College is known for its rigorous academic programs and its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The college has a strong focus on experiential learning and encourages students to participate in research, internships, and other hands-on learning opportunities.
One of the most notable features of Carleton College is its beautiful campus. The college is situated on over 1,000 acres of land and features several unique buildings and landmarks, including the Goodsell Observatory and the Cowling Arboretum.
Overall, both the University of Minnesota and Carleton College are excellent choices for students looking to attend college in Minnesota. With their strong academic programs, commitment to sustainability and diversity, and beautiful campuses, these colleges are among the best in the Midwest.
Missouri
Missouri is home to several top colleges and universities in the Midwest region. Two of the most notable institutions are Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Missouri.
Washington University In St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis is a private research university located in the city of St. Louis. It is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the country and is known for its strong programs in medicine, law, and business.
The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of around 7,000 students and offers over 90 majors across seven schools. The most popular majors include business, engineering, biology, and psychology.
In addition to its academic programs, Washington University is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the McDonnell International Scholars Academy and the Siteman Cancer Center.
University Of Missouri
The University of Missouri, also known as Mizzou, is a public research university located in Columbia, Missouri. It is the flagship institution of the University of Missouri System and is the largest university in the state.
Mizzou has a total undergraduate enrollment of around 25,000 students and offers over 300 degree programs across 18 colleges and schools. The most popular majors include business, health professions, and engineering.
The university is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Bond Life Sciences Center and the Reynolds Journalism Institute.
Overall, both Washington University in St. Louis and the University of Missouri offer top-notch academic programs and research opportunities for students in the Midwest region.
Nebraska
Nebraska is a state located in the Great Plains region of the Midwest. It is home to several highly regarded colleges and universities, including the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is a public research university located in Lincoln, Nebraska. With an enrollment of over 25,000 undergraduate and graduate students, UNL is the flagship institution of the University of Nebraska System.
UNL offers over 150 undergraduate majors and minors, as well as over 100 graduate programs across its nine colleges. The university is particularly well-regarded for its programs in agriculture, engineering, and business.
In addition to its academic offerings, UNL is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Nebraska Center for Energy Sciences Research and the Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute.
Overall, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a top-tier institution in the Midwest, offering a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities to its students.
North Dakota
University of North Dakota
The University of North Dakota (UND) is a public research university located in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Founded in 1883, it is the oldest and largest university in the state. UND is classified as a Doctoral University with Higher Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
UND offers over 225 fields of study, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university is known for its strong programs in aerospace, engineering, and health sciences. In addition, UND is one of the few universities in the country to offer a degree in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
According to the Princeton Review’s “Best Colleges: Region by Region,” UND is one of the best colleges in the Midwest. The university is also recognized for its affordability, with low tuition rates and a variety of scholarships and financial aid options available to students.
UND has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 70 countries. The university has a strong commitment to student success, offering a variety of academic and support services to help students achieve their goals.
Overall, the University of North Dakota is a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education in the Midwest. With its strong programs, affordable tuition rates, and commitment to student success, UND is a great option for students looking to achieve their academic and career goals.
Ohio
Ohio is home to a variety of top-ranked colleges and universities. Some of the best colleges in Ohio are Ohio State University and Kenyon College.
Ohio State University
Ohio State University (OSU) is a public research university located in Columbus, Ohio. It is one of the largest universities in the United States and is known for its strong academic programs and top-ranked sports teams.
OSU offers over 200 undergraduate majors and more than 250 graduate programs. It is particularly well-known for its programs in business, engineering, and medicine. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes, including the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
In addition to its academic programs, OSU is also known for its vibrant campus life. The university has over 1,000 student organizations and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, cultural festivals, and sporting events.
Kenyon College
Kenyon College is a private liberal arts college located in Gambier, Ohio. It is known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus, which includes Gothic-style buildings and a scenic nature preserve.
Kenyon College offers over 50 majors and minors in fields such as English, history, biology, and psychology. The college is particularly well-known for its programs in creative writing and environmental studies.
In addition to its academic programs, Kenyon College is also known for its strong sense of community. The college has a low student-to-faculty ratio and encourages students to engage in collaborative learning and research projects. The college also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including lectures, concerts, and art exhibitions.
Overall, Ohio is home to a variety of top-ranked colleges and universities, including Ohio State University and Kenyon College. These institutions offer a range of academic programs and vibrant campus communities, making them great options for students seeking a high-quality education in the Midwest.
South Dakota
University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota (USD) is a public research university located in Vermillion, South Dakota. It was founded in 1862 and is the oldest university in the state. USD offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, including business, law, medicine, and education.
USD is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to research. The university is classified as a high research activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. In addition, USD has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top public universities in the Midwest.
The university has a total enrollment of approximately 10,000 students, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1. USD offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 150 student organizations, club sports, and NCAA Division I athletics.
Some notable programs at USD include the Beacom School of Business, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), and the School of Law, which is ranked as one of the top law schools in the country by U.S. News & World Report.
Overall, the University of South Dakota is a top choice for students seeking a high-quality education in the Midwest. With its strong academic programs, commitment to research, and wide range of extracurricular activities, USD offers students an excellent college experience.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a state in the Midwest region of the United States that offers a wide range of colleges and universities. Here are two of the best options for students seeking higher education in Wisconsin.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a public research university that has consistently been ranked among the top universities in the country. It is the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin System and is located in the state capital of Madison.
With over 42,000 students, the University of Wisconsin-Madison offers a diverse range of academic programs across its 20 schools and colleges. It is particularly well-known for its programs in agriculture, engineering, business, and the natural sciences. The university also has a strong research focus and is home to many research centers and institutes.
Some notable features of the University of Wisconsin-Madison include:
- A student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1
- A large and active student body with over 900 student organizations
- A beautiful campus with many historic buildings and green spaces
- A strong athletic program, with the Wisconsin Badgers competing in the Big Ten Conference
Marquette University
Marquette University is a private, Jesuit university located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was founded in 1881 and has since grown to become one of the top universities in the Midwest.
Marquette University offers over 80 undergraduate majors and 70 graduate programs across its 11 schools and colleges. It is particularly well-known for its programs in business, law, nursing, and engineering. The university also has a strong commitment to service and social justice, reflecting its Jesuit heritage.
Some notable features of Marquette University include:
- A student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1
- A diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 70 countries
- A beautiful urban campus located in the heart of Milwaukee
- A strong athletic program, with the Marquette Golden Eagles competing in the Big East Conference
Overall, both the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Marquette University offer excellent options for students seeking higher education in Wisconsin.
