Niagara University, already designated as a premier academic institution by
Colleges of Distinction, has been recognized for its excellent programs in
business,
education and
nursing - while enriching those programs with a strong liberal arts foundation.
"Niagara University continues to be an outstanding representation of the teaching-centered colleges that we believe provide the elements crucial for student development and an effective undergraduate education," wrote Wes Creel, founder of Colleges of Distinction. "As a College of Distinction, Niagara University is actively preparing the next generation of young adults with a successful delivery of our four distinctions - engagement, teaching, community and outcomes.
"In addition to such an impressive implementation of high-impact practices, Niagara University has enriched professional programs with a stellar foundation in the liberal arts. Niagara University not only engages competent future employees in business, education and nursing, but also inspires them to be critical thinkers with unique, well-rounded insight."
Niagara is among a select group of colleges and universities
profiled on the college finder website. Since 1999, Colleges of Distinction has been a trusted resource for more than 40,000 guidance counselors across the U.S., thousands of parents and students, and hundreds of colleges and universities.
In evaluating schools, Colleges of Distinction asks the question, "What colleges are the best places to learn, to grow, and to succeed?"
To be designated a "college of distinction," a school's curriculum must emphasize core competencies such as critical thinking, writing, oral skills, research and global perspectives. Dynamic out-of-classroom learning and study abroad programs also have to be part of a school's offerings. While Colleges of Distinction's process is objective, in-depth and qualitative, quantitative data such as class size and faculty-to-student ratio, as well as retention and four-year graduation rates, are also taken into account.
"Such national recognition is very much in line with our recently announced strategic plan, which, among other things, focuses on continuing to enhance the academic reputation and strengthen the academic profile of Niagara University," noted Dr. Tim Ireland, NU's provost and vice president of academic affairs.
The honor from Colleges of Distinction adds to recent accolades NU has received for the quality of its academics and the great value that it offers to students from U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, Money magazine, Kiplinger's and College Choice.
