By Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS – NOV. 19, 2024 – For the first time, the Wall Street Journal recognized The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley as the No. 1 public university in Texas for Social Mobility and Best Value Public University in its 2025 best colleges rankings.

This honor highlights UTRGV's dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education that enhances the economic prospects of its students, particularly those from lower-income families.

"This recognition by the Wall Street Journal as the top public university in Texas for social mobility and value is a testament to the dedication of our entire community," said President Guy Bailey. "It reflects our unwavering focus on providing an education that empowers students to overcome barriers and thrive." 

ELEVATING SOCIAL MOBILITY

The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse Social Mobility ranking evaluates how effectively colleges elevate the socioeconomic status of their students. It emphasizes institutions that:

• Enroll a high proportion of students from lower-income backgrounds: UTRGV has a substantial number of students receiving Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to serving those from less affluent families. 
• Maintain high graduation rates: The university ensures students not only enroll but also successfully complete their degrees.
• Positively impact graduates' salaries: UTRGV graduates experience significant boosts in their earning potential due to the quality education and career preparation they receive. 

• Minimize the costs associated with attending college: By keeping tuition affordable and providing financial aid, UTRGV reduces the financial burden on students and their families. 

UTRGV excelled in these areas, demonstrating its dedication to fostering an environment where all students can succeed academically and professionally. 

UNDERSTANDING THE RANKINGS METHODOLOGY

The methodology behind these rankings, developed in collaboration with College Pulse and Statista, centers on two main components: the Social Mobility Salary-Impact Score and the Social Mobility Graduation-Rate Impact Score. 

Social Mobility Salary-Impact Score (67%)

This score assesses how quickly an education at a college pays for itself through the salary boost it provides to graduates. It considers:

• Years to Pay Off Net Price: Combines the average net cost of attending the college with the value added to graduates' median salaries attributable to their education.
• Salary Impact: Measures how much a college boosts its graduates' salaries beyond what would be expected based on their academic background and the state's cost of living.

Both factors are weighted equally and adjusted to reflect the proportion of students receiving Pell Grants, highlighting institutions that serve a significant number of lower-income students while enhancing their earning potential.

Social Mobility Graduation-Rate Impact Score (33%)

This score evaluates a college's effectiveness in ensuring students graduate at rates higher than expected, given their academic preparedness and income levels. It measures: 

• Graduation Rate Impact: Looks at the college's performance in helping students complete their degrees beyond expected rates.

This score is also adjusted for the proportion of students who receive Pell Grants, rewarding colleges that not only have high graduation rates but also serve a large percentage of lower-income students.

WALL STREET JOURNAL'S UPDATED RANKINGS AND UTRGV'S DEBUT

In an effort to provide a more comprehensive guide for prospective students and their families, the Wall Street Journal updated its college rankings by partnering with College Pulse and Statista. The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S. ranking, released on Sept. 6, 2024, rates the top 500 universities in the country, emphasizing student outcomes such as graduation rates and graduate salaries.

This approach focuses on the value added by colleges – not just measuring student success but highlighting how institutions contribute to that success.

This is the first time that UTRGV has been included in the rankings under this new partnership, which has been ongoing for three years. UTRGV's debut and top ranking highlight the university's significant contributions to higher education and its commitment to student advancement. 

"We are honored to be recognized in this way," Bailey said. " It reflects the dedication and hard work of our students, faculty, and staff, all committed to a shared vision of excellence and service."

View the complete list of the Wall Street Journal’s 2025 Best Colleges in the U.S. here.