CSU, Chico Named to Forbes Magazine’s ‘Best Value Colleges’ List for 2018
In these days of rising costs, tight budgets and careful spending, many look for the best value when seeking higher education options. Once again, California State University, Chico has been named an outstanding option.
On Tuesday, Forbes magazine released its third annual ranking of the nation’s 300 “Best Value Colleges,” and CSU, Chico landed at the No. 89 spot. Additionally, in terms of public schools, CSU, Chico placed 45th nationally.
The Forbes’ honor follows similar best value rankings over the past year. After it was named to Money magazine’s “Best Colleges For Your Money 2017,” CSU, Chico appeared on the “Best Bang For Your Buck” list in Washington Monthly.
“Chico State’s appearance on Forbes’ Best Value Colleges list is validation that our focus on creating an inclusive and affordable higher education experience is recognized on a national scale,” said CSU, Chico President Gayle Hutchinson. “Chico State, and the entire CSU system, continues to innovate and educate, providing graduates with a world-class education as they enter the workforce.”
In ranking the nation’s schools for best value, Forbes considered factors like alumni earnings after graduation, net price of tuition, student debt post-graduation, and timely graduation. More on the methodology can be found here.
The CSU system as a whole fared well on Forbes’ list. San Diego State was the top CSU at No. 45, followed closely by CSU, Long Beach at No. 53, and San José State University at No. 55. Other CSU institutions that made the top 100 include Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (No. 65), Cal Poly Pomona (No. 66), and CSU, Fullerton (No. 68).
Adam Stoltz, director of CSU, Chico’s Office of Admissions, said being named a best value college by Forbes affirms the University and the education it provides retains their value even as our graduates head out into the workforce.
“These rankings show that our alumni are successful, attending Chico State is affordable, our students graduate with low debt and the University ultimately provides a high value return on a students’ investment in their education,” said Stoltz. “Many of our students graduate debt-free, and for those who do graduate with debt, it is half the national average. Chico State provides the opportunity for students to make a difference in their life while also making a difference in the world.”