University of San Diego, among the 13 best public universities in the US.

SAN DIEGO, CA – The University of California, San Diego earned five stars in the Money’s Best Colleges in America 2023 list, which annually recognises colleges that combine quality and affordability. The San Diego institution was one of 13 public universities in the United States to receive the top rating.

This year, Money’s analysis of four-year colleges was redesigned to place institutions in one of five star ratings rather than a numbered ranking. The new list evaluated more than 700 universities over four years, assigning a five-star rating to only 34.

The schools were ranked based on 26 factors in three categories: quality of education, accessibility and outcomes. Among the dozens of data points analysed for the final ranking were graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid and alumni salaries.

“This 5-star rating from Money is a testament to UC San Diego’s commitment to both educational quality and value,” said Chancellor Pradeep K. Khosla. “Our UC San Diego students embark on a world-class educational journey that equips them with the skills, knowledge and experience to drive positive change in our society – and we are proud to offer this elite education at an affordable price.”

In its profile, Money recognises UC San Diego as “one of the best research universities in the world”. In addition, it was noted as “famous for its scientific programmes and stellar faculty,” and they highlighted faculty members such as Ken Anderson of the Department of Music, an internationally renowned gospel singer who directs the popular campus gospel choir.

Department of Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution professor Lin Chao was also featured in the profile, noted for “describing complex scientific concepts through stories”.

This month, the university celebrated the graduation of more than 9,000 students. UC San Diego said it continues to make an effort to ensure that students of all economic backgrounds have access to a world-class education.

According to the university’s most recent data, more than one-third of the freshmen and more than half of the transfer students enrolled at UC San Diego by fall 2022 will be the first generation in their family to graduate from the university.