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UMD Ranked on Forbes’ Top Colleges Lists

By Maryland Today Staff

The University of Maryland moved up to No. 12 among public institutions in Forbes’ 2024 rankings of America’s Top Colleges, released Aug. 27.

UMD climbed one spot on that list, and was named the No. 34 research university and No. 41 college in the country. It was the 17th-ranking institution, public or private, in the northeastern U.S.

“It makes me proud to see the University of Maryland ascending this list of our country’s finest universities,” said UMD President Darryll J. Pines. “Our talented and ambitious students, brilliant faculty and dedicated staff make all this possible.”

The magazine’s annual lists showcase 500 schools that produce successful, high-earning and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds, with less student debt.

The rankings, which prospective students may use when deciding where to apply, are based on 14 factors including alum salaries, student debt, retention and graduation rates, and academic success as measured by national scholarships won by students and the percentage of alums who earn a Ph.D. soon after graduation.

Data for the rankings came from federal, private and nonprofit databases, as well as Forbes’ own lists.

Forbes also recently ranked UMD as one of America’s Best Employers by State for 2024, its fourth consecutive year appearing there.

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