The College Rankings Revolt

vonlost
Wed, 27 Jun 2007 13:19:33 +0000

For example, someone who is very driven by USNews’ opinion may have a school recommended to them–but when they see it is ranked by USNews below a certain threshold, they will strike it from their list without ever gathering other information about it.

Well said, and this happens. I got a PM from a young lady who didn’t apply a school poorly rated by USNWR, and then discovered why the low rating was given. She greatly regretted the decision, because the school turned out to be perfect for her, and she regretted relying on USNWR.

I’ll say it again: A big problem with USNWR is forming the one-size-fits-all ratings. The information gathering is great; I am a paid subscriber to their on-line service.