Marian University making largest gains in US News & World Report rankings of Midwest Colleges

INDIANAPOLIS , Sept. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Marian University climbed to #25 in the U.S. News & World Report 2014 rankings of the top colleges in the Midwest, released earlier this week. Since 2011, the Catholic institution serving 2,600 students on its campus located 10 minutes west of downtown Indianapolis has gone from #41 to #25, climbing steadily each year. The 16-point gain between 2011 and 2014 is the largest among U.S. News & World Report's listing of Midwest Colleges, matched only by Central Methodist University in Missouri. Only one other college on the list recorded a double-digit gain during that timeframe.

Last month, Affordable Colleges Online ranked Marian University #10 out of Indiana's 27 colleges and universities in terms of Return of Investment. That survey attempts to rank the value of a college degree from various institutions, taking into account the cost of tuition and average salaries of alumni, among other factors.

"Marian University is riding a wave of momentum, with record enrollment, new facilities, and successful fundraising campaigns," Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener said. "But more importantly, we're improving in terms of quality. These recent survey results reveal that third parties perceive that a Marian University education continues to become more valuable with each passing year. That's an important message for parents and students who are committed to investing in a high quality education."

Marian University reported record enrollment for its Fall Semester, with more than 2,600 total students. The university also welcomed its largest freshman class in its 76-year history this month.

In August, Marian University opened its College of Osteopathic Medicine. It is Indiana's second medical school, and the first to open in 110 years. Next week, the university will break ground on a new student center, slated to open in fall 2014.

Marian University captured the NAIA national football championship in 2012. Its cycling program has amassed 22 national championships over the years.

About Marian University Indianapolis
Marian University (www.marian.edu), founded in Indianapolis in 1937, is the only Catholic liberal arts university in central Indiana. It serves a student body of more than 2,600 through dedication to excellent teaching and learning in the Franciscan and liberal arts traditions. Marian University is one of Indiana's 31 independent colleges and one of 244 Catholic colleges and universities nationwide.

Since 2001, Marian University has been led by President Daniel J. Elsener, whose vision and leadership are transforming the university. In 2013, Marian University opened the Michael A. Evans Center for Health Sciences, home to its College of Osteopathic Medicine. Marian University has amassed 22 national championships in cycling and in 2012 won the NAIA Football Championship.

SOURCE Marian University Indianapolis