Principia has once again earned national recognition as a top liberal arts college.

Principia College has been ranked No. 2 among the 2025 Best Value Schools by U.S. News & World Report and No. 66 among National Liberal Arts Colleges overall. 

Now in its 40th year, the U.S. News & World Report rankings evaluate nearly 1,500 national colleges and universities on up to 17 measures of academic quality and place an emphasis on social mobility and outcomes for graduating college students. U.S. News publishes the Best Colleges rankings each year to provide prospective students and their families with the comparative merits of the undergraduate programs at America’s colleges and universities.  

“We are honored to receive this national recognition, which reflects an exceptional as well as accessible education,” said Dr. Daniel Norton, Principia College President. “The depth and breadth of our academic, student life, spiritual life, and athletic programs lead to our students’ future-ready success, which is just one of many markers of Principia’s extraordinary value.” 

According to U.S. News & World Report, the Best Value Schools ranking considers academic quality and the net cost of attendance for an out-of-state student who received the average level of need-based financial aid. The higher the quality of the program and the lower the cost, the better the value. Only schools ranked in or near the top half of their categories are included because U.S. News & World Report considers the most significant values to be among colleges that are above average academically.   

“This ranking highlights Principia College’s long history of excellence,” said Rachael Stock, Dean of Admissions at Principia College. “We are invested in our students’ futures every step in their journeys, from competitive scholarships and financial aid to a robust career-development center. The individualized yet global nature of our programs offers students opportunities without borders.” 

“For 40 years, Best Colleges has continued to evolve as a trusted companion to prospective students and their families during the decision-making process,” said LaMont Jones, Ed.D., managing editor for Education at U.S. News. “The rankings and editorial content offer crucial data as well as college advice and informed reporting to all who seek a college education.” View Principia College’s profile to learn more. 

As Dean of Academics at Principia College, Dr. Meggan Madden leads a talented team of faculty that equips students to become the creative problem solvers that the world needs, today and tomorrow. “From our new innovative Academic Centers and robust study abroad programs to our purpose-driven culture, Principia offers a liberal arts experience like no other,” said Dr. Madden.  

The U.S. News Best Colleges rankings coincide with other recent accolades for Principia for 2024-2025: 

• Niche: Best Colleges for Art in America (73 of 724) and Best Colleges for Performing Arts in America (93 of 559).  

• Colleges of Distinction: Recognized as a College of Distinction among Christian colleges, with special distinction for Business and Education programs, as well as Career Development services.  

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