Muskingum News

New Concord, OH (Sept. 22, 2026) – For the fourth consecutive year, Muskingum University is a top performer in the U.S. News & World Report rankings for Regional Universities in the Midwest. The University ranked 1st among Ohio universities in Best Value Schools and 2nd among Ohio universities in Social Mobility. Nationally within the Regional Midwest category, Muskingum ranked 3rd in Best Value Schools and 10th in Top Performers on Social Mobility, improving four spots and three spots, respectively, from the previous year.

 

"This recognition serves as a powerful reminder that excellence and access can go hand in hand," said Dr. Flavius Lilly, President of Muskingum University. "As higher education continues to evolve, Muskingum remains focused on delivering exceptional outcomes while maintaining affordability for students and families. We are proud to be recognized among the nation's leaders in value and social mobility, helping students transform their potential into purpose and success."

 

To determine which universities offer the best value for students, U.S. News & World Report considers academic quality alongside the net cost of attendance after need-based financial aid. The rankings also evaluate the percentage of students receiving need-based grants and scholarships and the extent to which those awards reduce students' overall costs.

 

Nearly half of Muskingum’s undergraduate students are eligible for Pell Grants, and 100 percent of undergraduate students receive grant or scholarship assistance. Through generous support from alumni and friends, combined with state and federal aid programs, Muskingum provides significant financial assistance to students. The University's average net cost places it among the most affordable private institutions in Ohio.

 

Committed to preparing students for meaningful careers and lifelong success, Muskingum continues to enhance its academic offerings while expanding opportunities for experiential learning. From faculty-mentored research and internships to entrepreneurship initiatives and technology-enhanced instruction, students gain practical experience and the confidence to thrive in today's workforce and meet the challenges of tomorrow.

 

The University also earned recognition in several specialty categories, including Undergraduate Engineering Programs and Bachelor of Science in Nursing Programs.

 

Now in its 43rd year, the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings evaluate more than 1,700 U.S. bachelor's degree-granting institutions using a range of indicators that measure academic quality, student outcomes, and graduate success.