Kiplinger's Personal Finance has named Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) a best value in its "2011-2012 Best Value Private College" rankings. In their assessment, Kiplinger's rates WPI at 35th among all private colleges nationwide for providing high quality academics and great cost value.
According to the publication, private schools may have a higher price tag than many public schools at first glance, but these schools ultimately provide an excellent education at a great rate because of the abundant financial aid options. For this ranking, Kiplinger's rated 100 private universities and 100 liberal arts colleges that combine outstanding education with economic value. The colleges in their ranking exemplify the traits parents and students want when looking into higher education options: small class sizes, many financial aid options, high four-year graduation rate and low debt for students after graduation.
"WPI is deeply committed to providing students with an excellent education and a solid return on their investment," said WPI President Dennis Berkey. "Kiplinger’s ranking is particularly gratifying because it recognizes the connection between strong academics and their great value to students. WPI is delighted to be named to this list."
This year, Kiplinger adjusted its criteria to better reflect the issues affecting families. Now, the rankings give more weight to the four-year graduation rate, a measure of the college's ability to deliver academic support and of the overall cost to families, and to colleges that keep student debt down. While the criteria have shifted, the overall focus on value remains the same. The annual private school report appears in Kiplinger’s December issue and online.
