University receives nods from Colleges of Distinction and Money Magazine
Alvernia University earns national endorsements as a Colleges of Distinction (COD) for the fourth consecutive year and was ranked among Money Magazine’s 2023 Best Colleges rankings.
COD evaluates institutions based on their commitment to "Four Distinctions:" engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community and successful outcomes. The COD staff conducts in-depth research and detailed interviews with the schools about each institution's strategic plan, first-year experience, retention, general education programs, career development, etc. The university was listed among the 2023-2024, Catholic and Pennsylvania COD categories and six others. Money also ranked Alvernia among 736 other colleges using its new scoring system which assesses 26 factors centered around affordability, financial aid packages, outcomes for graduates and overall quality.
“These recognitions reflect the success of our student-centric strategic plan and commitment to providing valuable outcomes for our students while serving the underserved,” said President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “I thank our dedicated faculty and staff for their mission-centered excellence in delivering a transformational educational experience that prepares Alvernia graduates to become leaders in the communities in which we live, learn and engage.”
Money also ranked Alvernia among 736 other colleges using its new scoring system, which assesses 26 factors centered around affordability, financial aid packages, outcomes for graduates and overall quality.
Alvernia is the only institution in Berks County to earn the Professional/Doctoral University designation by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education due to the number of professional graduate program offerings, graduates, and the university’s commitment to research.
“Improving access to an affordable, transformational higher education experience to those throughout eastern Pennsylvania remains a top institutional priority,” said Senior Vice President and Provost, Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D. “As we continue to add and enhance academic program offerings, experiential learning opportunities and research initiatives, we will continue to develop innovative financial aid packages and employer partnership programs to keep the cost of higher education affordable.
In addition, as one of only 22 Franciscan Catholic institutions in the country, Alvernia embodies Franciscan Catholic and liberal arts traditions as a rigorous, caring, and inclusive learning community. This is cultivated through the Office of Mission and Ministry and the newly established Division of Mission, Diversity & Inclusion.
“We prefer to focus on the innovative ways that colleges all around the country are providing an enriching undergraduate experience,” said Chief Operating Officer at COD, Tyson Schritter. "We are deeply inspired by how Alvernia University immerses students in their academic pursuits, fostering a welcoming community that provides unwavering support throughout their college years and beyond."
