August 18, 2006 — The latest issue of U.S. News & World Report/America’s Best Colleges showcases three of the University of Utah”s most popular programs. The magazine ranked the U’s David Eccles School of Business and College of Engineering among the nation’s top schools, and the U’s Service Learning Program was honored as one of its “Programs to Look For.”
The 2007 America’s Best College issue hits newsstands on Monday, August 21st. Overall, U.S. News ranks the U in the top tier of the list of Best National Universities coming in at number 120.
The U’s David Eccles School of Business climbed three spots in this year’s issue with its undergraduate program ranking 60th in the nation, up from 63 last year. The U’s College of Engineering too was ranked among the nations best programs, also coming in at number 60.
Dean Richard B. Brown attributes the national recognition of the engineering program in part to Utah’s engineering initiative which has provided for a significant investment in new faculty, facilities and infrastructure. The Warnock Engineering Building, scheduled for completion later this year, is an exciting new addition to the college. Brown says that “Utah’s economy has benefited significantly from growth in the high-tech sector. The U’s College of Engineering will continue to educate the bright, creative engineers who will build our economy while improving human productivity, health, safety and enjoyment of life. Because of the strong economy, the demand for our graduates across all disciplines is at an all-time high.”
Service Learning continues to be a bright spot for the U’s Lowell Bennion Community Service Center. The U was one of just 25 schools mentioned by U.S. News & World Report in that category. “The success and impact of the Bennion Center is the result of two vital factors. The University provides support to effectively utilize service-learning as a teaching and learning tool that also addresses important social issues in the community. Likewise, it is the combined efforts of students, faculty, and community agencies working in partnership that ensure quality experiences,” said Director Marshall Welch. Service Learning programs are described by the magazine as those that place emphasis on volunteering in the community as an instructional strategy-and a requirement of a student’s coursework.
For a complete listing of the U.S. News & World Report rankings of America’s Best Colleges visit http://www.usnews.com.