Rankings

�� Tops List of America's Best Colleges

lmadaus — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 12:36:51 +0000

�� Tops List of America's Best Colleges

lmadaus Wed, 07/02/2025 - 08:36

�� has been named the top undergraduate institution in America’s Best Colleges Rankings by Launchpad Rankings, the joint effort of a U.S.-based group of prominent leaders from academia and industry and Education World, India’s largest human development magazine.

Unlike traditional rankings that often emphasize institutional selectivity or prestige over student experience, Launchpad’s methodology centers on indicators, such as class size, focus on faculty teaching, retention rate and experiential education opportunities, which are often considered predictive of student and workforce success. The result is a ranking that reflects how well a university delivers on the promise of education as a launchpad to a career.

At a time when students and families are increasingly focused on outcomes and return on investment in their college decision-making process, this recognition affirms Kettering’s effectiveness in preparing students for meaningful, high-impact careers. Kettering’s distinctive 50/50 blend of rigorous academics and hands-on Co-op experience, which alternates classroom instruction with paid, professional work experiences every 11 weeks over the course of a student’s entire undergraduate college career, is the centerpiece of its unique academic model. Kettering received the highest possible scores in two critical areas—teaching focus and experiential learning—underscoring the powerful impact of this signature Co-op education model.

“Today, education and career can – and ideally should – begin and develop at the same time,” said �� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “At Kettering, our students not only earn one of the best undergraduate degrees in the sciences and engineering, but also graduate with up to two and a half years of professional, mentored experience in the practice of their planned professional discipline. That creates a completely different outcome. Our students often graduate into roles well beyond entry level because they’re already trusted employees.”

Kettering’s placement at the top of the rankings also reinforces the long-standing value of its deep partnerships with industry leaders in automotive, automation/autonomous vehicles, advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defense, bioengineering, computer science/cybersecurity, and energy systems, among many other fields. These relationships ensure that graduates leave Kettering not only with a degree, but with experience, skills and a professional network that accelerates their professional journey.

Findings from other industry watchers support Launchpad’s assessment. Ranked among the top ten in career preparation by The Wall Street Journal, Kettering graduates not only often start in positions above entry level but are then fast-tracked in the early years of their career. The University boasts one of the highest annualized returns in the nation—8%, according to CollegeFactual.com—driven in part by students earning up to $100,000 through paid Co-op experiences during their college careers.

The Launchpad ranking news follows Kettering’s recent announcement of catalytic changes to its academic framework aimed at further strengthening its leadership at the intersection of education and industry. As part of the initiative, the University will launch an enhanced College of Engineering and Computer Science, a new School of Foundational Studies, and an expanded Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science.

�� Earns 2025–2026 Military Friendly School Silver Designation

rnorris — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 14:14:00 +0000

�� Earns 2025–2026 Military Friendly School Silver Designation

Campus

Rankings

rnorris Mon, 06/02/2025 - 10:14

�� has once again earned the Military Friendly School Silver designation for 2025–26, recognizing its strong commitment to supporting student veterans and military-connected learners in achieving their academic and professional goals.

Awarded by Viqtory, this designation is based on both public data and institutional responses across categories, including student retention, graduation rates, career outcomes, and financial assistance, focusing specifically on outcomes for veterans. Kettering’s recognition reflects a model built not just on academic rigor, but on real results.

“��’s career-first model and hands-on approach set a high bar for veteran success,” said Judi Langolf, ��’s Registrar and VA School Certifying Official. “Our students earn real experience from day one through a rigorous, paid, professional Co-op program that pairs academic challenge with real-world results. Veterans and military-connected students come to Kettering ready for a challenge — and ready to lead.”

Built for Those Who’ve Served

Aaron DeHaven ‘23, a Navy veteran and current computer engineering graduate student, is one of many military-connected students who have found both opportunity and purpose at Kettering.

“I came out of the service with strong technical training, but I didn’t know what was next,” DeHaven said. “My dad, a GM retiree, had always talked about Kettering, so I looked into it. When I saw they were a Yellow Ribbon school, I knew it was possible.”

Through the Yellow Ribbon Program, Kettering covers tuition costs that exceed standard VA benefits — a key factor, in addition to Kettering’s Co-op model and its associated earnings, that made it possible for Aaron to complete both his bachelor’s and now his master’s degree without out-of-pocket tuition.

Beyond financial support, Aaron says the structure of the Kettering experience aligned with the maturity and discipline he gained in the military.

“You come out of the Navy with a different level of confidence and leadership. I didn’t just want to sit in class — I wanted to do real work,” he said. “At Kettering, I’ve had Co-op placements in EV startups and advanced manufacturing, and now I’m doing research in autonomous driving and AI. That’s a full arc.”

Veteran Support that Delivers

Veteran coordinators at Kettering ensure every benefit is processed efficiently, so students can stay focused on their education and career goals.

“I never had to worry about whether the VA was sending payments or whether something would get missed,” said DeHaven. “Judi Langolf and Cierra Boegner have made the process almost invisible — that’s huge.”

Recognition Rooted in Results

The Military Friendly Silver designation is more than a badge — it’s confirmation that Kettering’s model works for veterans. Student veterans here aren’t just completing degrees; they’re leading research, earning advanced credentials, and stepping into high-impact roles in STEM industries.

“I’ve always ended up in leadership positions, even when I didn’t expect to,” DeHaven said. “Kettering gives you the platform to turn that into something real.”

�� Military Friendly Schools
The Military Friendly Schools list is created each year based on research using public data sources from more than 8,800 schools, input from student veterans, and responses to the Military Friendly Schools survey. Criteria for consideration can be found at www.militaryfriendly.com.

�� Viqtory
Founded in 2001, Viqtory is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business that connects the military community to employment, education, and entrepreneurial opportunities through its G.I. Jobs and Military Friendly brands. Viqtory and its brands are not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense or any federal government entity. Learn more at www.viqtory.com.

�� 
At ��, we prepare ambitious students to stand at the forefront of tomorrow’s industries. Our Co-op model blends rigorous academics with immersive professional experience, equipping students to lead in high-demand fields like mobility, sustainability, robotics, and cybersecurity. From first-year labs to global impact, Kettering students build what’s next. Explore how Kettering supports veterans and military-connected students through tailored academic pathways, hands-on experiences, and VA-aligned financial assistance at /admissions-aid/us-military-veterans.

Eight Kettering Alumnae Named Among Top 100 Women in North American Auto Industry

rnorris — Wed, 28 May 2025 12:45:25 +0000

Eight Kettering Alumnae Named Among Top 100 Women in North American Auto Industry

Alumni

Rankings

rnorris Wed, 05/28/2025 - 08:45

Kettering Built leaders are recognized for their innovation, impact, and influence in shaping the future of mobility.

Eight trailblazing �� alumnae have earned a spot on Automotive News’ 2025 list of the 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry. Representing global companies like General Motors, 3M, Toyota, Novelis, and Sion Power, these women are driving innovation, leading teams, and redefining what leadership looks like in the future of mobility.

Each of these accomplished professionals started with the same foundation: a Kettering education rooted in real work, high standards, and relentless drive. From executive roles in engineering to battery innovation, manufacturing, sustainability, and connectivity, these women exemplify the results of Kettering’s rigorous academic and paid professional Co-op model: They’re decisive, future-focused, and in positions of influence in the North American Auto Industry.

Meet the Honorees

Mary Barra ’85, Chair and CEO, General Motors

Marking 20 years on the Automotive News Leading Women list, Barra continues to guide GM through one of the most ambitious industry evolutions in history. The first woman to lead a major global automaker, she has overseen GM’s pivot to electric and autonomous vehicles while championing agility, innovation, and a culture of rapid problem-solving. Her leadership is about more than business — it’s about inspiring a generation of future engineers and decision-makers.

Wendy Bauer ’98, Group President, Transportation & Electronics, 3M
With a career spanning GM, Eaton, Denso, AWS, and now 3M, Bauer understands the complexity and pace of the auto industry better than most. At 3M, she leads global teams in delivering next-gen materials and solutions for transportation and aerospace. Her experience bridging legacy systems with cutting-edge tech makes her a vital force at the intersection of digital and physical innovation.

Erin Buchanan M’00, General Manager, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada
Buchanan began her career as one of six employees launching a supplier factory from the ground up. Today, she leads a three-plant operation responsible for Lexus and Toyota production, where she oversaw the first global dual-brand line transition — completed remotely during the pandemic. Known for her empathetic and empowering leadership style, she builds cultures that welcome innovation, inclusion, and risk-taking.

Mandi Damman ’07, Executive Chief Engineer, Autonomous and Electric Vehicles, General Motors
From Co-op student to executive chief engineer, Damman has spent two decades advancing EV and AV technology at GM. Her work on the Cadillac Escalade IQ, a program she likens to a third child, showcases her passion for innovation and attention to technical excellence. A mentor, mother, and relentless problem-solver, she founded GM’s Empower Hour to create community and opportunity for women across the company.

Pamela Fletcher ’89, CEO, Sion Power
Fletcher was 17 when she walked onto the factory floor with a stopwatch and never looked back. As a pioneer in electric propulsion, she led the Chevy Volt program and helped bring the Bolt EV to life. Now CEO of a next-gen battery firm, she’s focused on embedding AI and material science innovation into energy solutions. Fletcher leads with confidence, curiosity, and a belief in giving people room to exceed expectations.

Doneen McDowell M’02, Vice President, Manufacturing – Full-Size Trucks, General Motors
McDowell has built a career across nine GM plants in stamping, assembly, supply chain, and labor relations. She led GM’s ventilator partnership during the pandemic and oversaw the launch of the Escalade IQ, applying her philosophy of inclusive, servant leadership. A former college athlete, she views manufacturing as a team sport and is committed to developing diverse talent and high-performing cultures across GM’s operations.

Kristin Toth M’02, Executive Director, Electrical Systems, Software and Connectivity, General Motors
Toth’s career spans nearly three decades of GM’s technology evolution. From early purchasing roles to leading the semiconductor response during a global supply chain crisis, her leadership is collaborative, focused, and future-facing. Now at the helm of GM’s vehicle intelligence systems, she guides the company’s transformation into a tech-first mobility leader, driven by data, connected systems, and autonomous capability.

Jamie Zinser ’99, Vice President, Automotive, North America, Novelis
An engineer by training and a sustainability advocate by mission, Zinser leads Novelis’ North American automotive business. Her team is pioneering high-recycled-content aluminum and sustainable manufacturing practices. A champion for women in STEM, she mentors young professionals through programs like Women of Tomorrow and balances high-level strategy with hands-on leadership and the occasional waffle breakfast with her four kids.

Built at Kettering. Leading the Future.

These eight alumnae are not exceptions. They are examples. ��’s Co-op model and rigorous academics prepare students not just to enter the workforce but also to lead it. These women prove what’s possible when ambition meets the right foundation. Their recognition is a testament to what Kettering students achieve when they’re challenged to push harder, aim higher, and innovate further. Because while others wait for change, Kettering leaders engineer it.

�� Named Among the Nation’s Top Private Colleges for Return on Investment — Outranking Multiple Ivy League Schools

rnorris — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 16:43:38 +0000

�� Named Among the Nation’s Top Private Colleges for Return on Investment — Outranking Multiple Ivy League Schools

Rankings

rnorris Wed, 03/19/2025 - 12:43

�� has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Private Colleges in the Nation for Return on Investment (ROI), according to a Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce study published by MSN. �� ranked No. 21 in the nation, besting Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Cornell, Notre Dame, and Northwestern, among other prestigious institutions. The ranking also represents a leap forward from No. 33 in the same study one year ago. The Wall Street Journal, College Pulse, and Statista have previously recognized Kettering as one of the top 10 schools in the nation for Career Preparation. Business Insider ranked �� as one of the best in the nation for Best Bang for Your Buck, and Smart Asset scored Kettering as the No. 1 school in Michigan for graduates' starting salaries.

With a 40-year net present value (NPV) of $1.94 million, Kettering’s distinctive Co-op education model is the driving force behind its unmatched career acceleration, high graduate salaries, and long-term financial success.

● Median earnings after 10 years: $93,893

● Net price: $37,518

● Median student debt: $27,000

A Different Kind of Education — A Different Kind of Outcome

Unlike traditional universities, where students wait until their third or fourth year to gain industry experience, Kettering students begin their careers on day one through an integrated, paid Co-op program that provides up to 2.5 years of full-time work experience before graduation.

This 50-50 model — rotating between rigorous academic terms and real-world employment at 400+ Co-op employer partners — ensures that Kettering graduates enter the workforce with in-demand skills, high salaries, and the potential for rapid career progression.

“�� has always been about more than just classroom education — we are about action,” said �� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “This latest ranking from Georgetown University confirms what our students, alumni, and industry partners already know: A Kettering degree isn’t just a credential; it’s a competitive advantage. Our graduates don’t enter the workforce hoping to make an impact; they are doing so even before they cross the commencement stage. This is the power of our integrated and comprehensive co-op model. We offer an education built for those who are ready to lead.”

With Co-op earnings of up to $75,000 over nine terms, Kettering students reduce their student debt, strengthen their resumes, and build industry connections before graduation.

Kettering Graduates: Leading the Future of Industry

Kettering’s results are more than numbers — they represent real-world success. Graduates are shaping the future of advanced mobility, AI, cybersecurity, sustainable energy, robotics, and more. Alumni are leading Fortune 500 companies, founding groundbreaking startups, and earning patents before graduation. Employers turn to Kettering students because they know they’re already experienced.

�� Achieves Top 20 National Ranking for Best Graduate Salaries from The Wall Street Journal

rnorris — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:11:55 +0000

�� Achieves Top 20 National Ranking for Best Graduate Salaries from The Wall Street Journal

Rankings

rnorris Wed, 03/19/2025 - 11:11

�� proudly announces its ranking as No. 19 in the nation for Best Graduate Salaries, as recognized by The Wall Street Journal in its 2025 WSJ/College Pulse Best Salaries list. This prestigious ranking evaluates institutions based on their impact on graduates’ salaries relative to the cost of attendance, highlighting Kettering’s commitment to providing exceptional value to its students.

�� stands out among institutions nationwide with an impressive score of 92.8 points on The Wall Street Journal’s 100-point scale. �� also ranks as the No. 1 private university for Best Graduate Salaries in Michigan. The university’s unique 50/50 blend of rigorous academics and hands-on experiential learning prepares students to excel in their careers. Graduates leave with degrees and the skills and experience to lead on day one in competitive fields. The numbers speak for themselves: Kettering graduates, on average, see their net price of $33,677 repaid in just 1 year and 11 months, thanks to an estimated $68,157 increase in median salary compared to high school graduates.

“��’s place among the top 20 institutions for Best Graduate Salaries is a testament to our enduring model of excellence,” said �� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “We continue to build on a legacy that began in 1919 when Flint was a hub of innovation, much like Silicon Valley. Today, Kettering continues to stand alongside a small group of elite institutions delivering the strongest returns on educational investment in the nation, preparing graduates who are not only equipped to succeed but to lead and shape the future of their industries.”

Earlier this year, The Wall Street Journal recognized Kettering as one of the top 10 schools in the nation for Career Preparation. When it comes to return on investment, Kettering is often referenced with similar accolades. Business Insider has recognized �� as a Best Bang for Your Buck in the nation, and Smart Asset has again recognized Kettering as the No. 1 school in Michigan for graduates’ starting salaries.

As �� continues to lead the way in producing graduates who excel in their fields, the Top 20 ranking for Best Graduate Salaries from The Wall Street Journal reaffirms the university’s more than century-long legacy of producing graduates who lead industries, engineer solutions to complex challenges, and redefine success.

Research.com Names �� as One of the Top Universities in Michigan

rnorris — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 14:13:47 +0000

Research.com Names �� as One of the Top Universities in Michigan

Rankings

rnorris Tue, 02/11/2025 - 09:13

At ��, success is earned through a combination of rigorous academics, hands-on learning, and a relentless drive to lead in innovation. It’s a formula that has once again been recognized on the state and national stage: �� has been ranked No. 4 in Michigan in the 2024 Research.com Best Colleges rankings.

This recognition reflects more than just numbers — it embodies Kettering’s commitment to preparing students to lead in the industries of tomorrow. With its ranking among the top 4% of Best Colleges in the USA, Kettering continues to raise the bar for higher education excellence and industry collaboration.

The heart of Kettering’s success lies in its innovative Co-op model, which combines rigorous coursework with up to 2.5 years of paid professional experience. Unlike traditional internships, Co-op experiences are deeply integrated into the educational journey, allowing students to immediately apply their classroom learning to real challenges in industries such as robotics, cybersecurity, advanced mobility, and alternative energy.

With more than 400 Co-op employer partners, including Fortune 500 companies and global innovators, Kettering students have unparalleled opportunities to set themselves apart from their peers. From day one, students work alongside industry leaders, contributing to breakthroughs and building professional networks that last a lifetime.

Graduates don’t just leave Kettering with a degree — they leave with a proven ability to create solutions, deliver results, and lead in their fields. Whether it’s building new automotive technologies, advancing energy solutions, or engineering life-saving medical devices, Kettering alumni are at the forefront of industries that shape our world.

The rankings from Research.com, which are based on an analysis of hundreds of metrics and data sources, highlight the measurable outcomes of a Kettering education: students who rise to challenges, deliver results, and accelerate their careers.

To learn more about the Research.com rankings click here.

College of Engineering

College of Sciences & Liberal Arts

School of Management

�� Earns Top Rankings for Multiple Master’s Programs in Intelligent.com's 2025 Best of U.S. Education

rnorris — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 18:31:39 +0000

�� Earns Top Rankings for Multiple Master’s Programs in Intelligent.com's 2025 Best of U.S. Education

rnorris Tue, 10/29/2024 - 14:31

�� has secured top honors in Intelligent.com's 2025 rankings, highlighting its excellence across various Master’s programs. This recognition reinforces Kettering's commitment to providing high-quality education that prepares students for successful careers and industry leadership.

Intelligent.com employed a rigorous, data-driven methodology to evaluate programs based on academic quality, graduation rates, cost, return on investment (ROI), and student resources. The evaluation utilized trusted sources, including the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, U.S. News & World Report, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ensuring that only programs with a strong track record of excellence earned a spot on Intelligent.com’s rankings.

Among ��'s nationally ranked programs are:

No. 6 Best Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management Degree Programs
No. 12 Best Online MBA Programs (No GMAT Required)
No. 22 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering Programs
No. 23 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Degree Programs
No. 24 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Programs
No. 28 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management Degree Programs

In addition to the top honors earned for ��’s Online Master’s programs, Intelligent.com also ranked the On-Campus Master’s Degree Programs as No. 34 in the nation.

“This recognition from Intelligent.com affirms ��’s commitment to providing exceptional, industry-driven education for our online students,” said Dr. Janie Jacobs, Interim Vice President of Kettering Global. “It highlights the quality of our programs and the dedication of our faculty and staff in preparing graduates to lead and innovate in their fields. This acknowledgment reinforces that our students are receiving a top-tier education that equips them with the skills and knowledge to excel in today's rapidly evolving professional landscape.”

For more information on the ranking methodology, visit Intelligent.com.

�� Earns MVAA Honor as Veteran-Friendly School for 2024

rnorris — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 18:21:38 +0000

�� Earns MVAA Honor as Veteran-Friendly School for 2024

Rankings

rnorris Thu, 10/03/2024 - 14:21

The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) has included �� on its esteemed list of Veteran-Friendly Schools (VFS) for 2024, granting the University Bronze status. This recognition reflects ��'s dedication to advancing the education of military-connected learners, ensuring veterans and service members thrive in an environment tailored to their success with specialized programs and support.

“Being recognized by the MVAA highlights the continued dedication and gratitude our institution holds for our country’s servicemembers and their families. It is an honor to support our veteran students and their families in their endeavors to blaze a trail toward personal progress and achievement,” said Judi Langolf, �� VA School Certifying Official and Registrar.

“We assist military-connected learners by ensuring timely certifications for benefit-eligible recipients and play an important role in guiding students to the proper resources, from their first day of school to walking across the stage at Commencement and on to making positive impacts in today’s workforce. We thank our veterans and military-connected families for their sacrifice and service — and for choosing ��,” said Cierra Boegner, �� VA School Certifying Official and Administrative Specialist.

This year, MVAA recognized 62 veteran-friendly learning institutions. “Their dedication and efforts play a crucial role in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for veterans and service members, and we are grateful for their ongoing support,” said Brian L. Love, director of the MVAA.

The VFS program assesses academic institutions and training facilities in Michigan based on their ability to meet the needs of veterans and their families. Institutions earn Gold, Silver, or Bronze status based on the level of support and services they offer.

�� Achieves Top Rankings in U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Colleges

rnorris — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 18:19:44 +0000

�� Achieves Top Rankings in U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Colleges

Rankings

rnorris Tue, 09/24/2024 - 14:19

�� has again solidified its position as a premier institution for experiential learning and academic excellence in STEM disciplines. In the newly announced U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Colleges rankings, �� is nationally recognized among the Top 20 in undergraduate engineering education and Co-op experiences and is No. 7 among Regional Universities in the Midwest. The University also earned this national recognition, reinforcing its legacy of delivering a top-tier educational experience.

U.S. News & World Report ranked �� No. 18 nationwide for Undergraduate Engineering Programs (non-doctorate). Kettering’s long-standing focus on hands-on, real-world experience through Co-op education was also highlighted, earning a No. 20 national ranking in the Co-ops/Internships category. This announcement follows on the heels of another prestigious ranking from The Wall Street Journal that placed �� among the Top 10 colleges in the nation for career preparation.

“Our recognition in US News & World Report affirms our unwavering commitment to excellence," remarked Dr. Robert K. McMahan, President of ��. "For over a century, we have been a leader in STEM education, blending our rigorous academic programs with a robust professional paid co-op program that equally emphasizes both academics and relevant practical experience. National acknowledgments such as these highlight the profound and lasting impact of our educational approach. We take immense pride in our legacy of producing successful and impactful graduates as we also continue to work to shape, inspire, and cultivate the leaders of tomorrow."

Since its founding in 1919, �� has brought hands-on STEM-focused learning to life through its blend of rigorous academics and paid Co-op employment. Unlike a traditional university, Kettering’s curriculum alternates every 11 weeks, all 4.5 years between a classroom environment and professional employment experience. Students spend one term mastering theories and skills in classrooms and labs and the next term applying them in a paid Co-op role with one of 400+ Co-op partners in the US and abroad. On average, Kettering students earn $60,000 to $75,000 throughout their time as undergraduates and graduate with 2.5 years of equivalent hands-on job experience.

“These rankings recognize the excellent outcomes produced by the unique ways we infuse applied, experiential educational opportunities for students across the entire curriculum,” said �� Provost Dr. James Zhang. “Our faculty challenges our students to pursue excellence, and our students are also immersed during their entire undergraduate career in meaningful, professional co-op experiences and research opportunities. This combination of deep learning and extraordinary practice leads to truly magnificent outcomes for our students, and these rankings reflect that fact.”

�� Celebrates Multiple Prestigious National College Rankings, Including 10th in The Nation for Career Preparation From The Wall Street Journal

rnorris — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:11:27 +0000

�� Celebrates Multiple Prestigious National College Rankings, Including 10th in The Nation for Career Preparation From The Wall Street Journal

Rankings

rnorris Wed, 09/11/2024 - 14:11

�� proudly announces its outstanding achievements in national higher education rankings, underscoring its commitment to career preparation and academic excellence. The Wall Street Journal, College Pulse, and Statista have recognized Kettering as one of the top 10 schools in the nation for Career Preparation in their 2025 rankings. The University also earned an impressive 99 out of 100 points for graduates' starting salaries. When it comes to return on investment, Business Insider has ranked �� as one of the top in the nation as a Best Bang for Your Buck, and Smart Asset has scored Kettering as the No. 1 school in Michigan for graduates' starting salaries. The Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce also ranked �� as No. 33 out of 4,500 colleges and universities on return on investment.

The WSJ/College Pulse Best Colleges in the U.S. ranks undergraduate institutions by the value they offer students based on learning environment, years to pay off the net price, degree completion rates, the likelihood of higher salaries post-graduation, and diversity. The results are derived from official data from the U.S. Department of Education and the Census Bureau, along with a nationwide survey of undergraduate students and recent alumni.

“These accolades reflect the unwavering drive of our distinguished faculty, ambitious students, accomplished alumni, and the entire Kettering community,” said �� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “They highlight not only our commitment to excellence but also the exceptional outcomes achieved through our unique educational model. By combining rigorous academics with hands-on, experiential learning opportunities, we ensure our students are prepared to lead, innovate, and to create the future.”

Since its founding in 1919, �� has brought hands-on STEM-focused learning to life through its 50/50 blend of rigorous academics and paid Co-op employment. Unlike a traditional university, Kettering’s curriculum alternates every 11 weeks, all 4.5 years, between a classroom environment and professional employment experience. Students spend one term mastering theories and skills in classrooms and labs, then applying them in a paid Co-op role the next term, working on projects that add value to the company’s bottom line.

"Recognition on the national level is a great proof point of our unique and successful Co-op model, which gives our students a jump start on their career ahead of their peers with professional experience, or as we like to say, ‘real work’ before they graduate,” said Enza Sleva, ��’s Director of Co-op and Career Design. “This is how our students start ahead and stay there."

According to The Wall Street Journal writers Tom Corrigan and Kevin McAllister, “With faith in higher education continuing to slide… the investment in a college degree has come under increased scrutiny. As such, the WSJ/College Pulse ranking seeks to reward institutions that showcase demonstrable positive outcomes for their students and alumni… Schools with historically strong technical and engineering programs also did especially well in the ranking this year, in part because of strong industry demand for those skills.”

��'s recent achievements extend beyond the Wall Street Journal rankings. �� has been featured in The Princeton Review’s The Best 390 Colleges for 2025. The Princeton Review is one of the nation’s leading education services companies, and its rankings are based on survey results from more than 168,000 students nationwide. The survey evaluated schools on various factors, from financial aid and career services to sustainability and quality of life.

Forbes' 2024-2025 Top Colleges list also places Kettering at No. 206 among the top 500 American colleges. Forbes also rated Kettering as the No. 31 college in the Midwest and No. 111 among all private colleges in the nation.

“Our rigorous programs are designed for driven students to push boundaries and inspire growth,” �� Provost Dr. James Zhang said. “I am very proud to see The Wall Street Journal, Princeton Review, and Forbes recognize Kettering as one of the top higher education institutions in the country. This recognition speaks to the University’s commitment to student success in the classroom, in the Co-op workplace, and in future careers.”

In the Princeton Review survey, Kettering students gave exceptionally high marks to the University’s Co-op program, saying the “awesome” experience is “unparalleled in preparing students.” One surveyed Kettering student emphasized the Co-op benefits, saying undergrads “get to make money during school while also getting experience and making industry connections.” Kettering students earn between $50,000 and $75,000, and sometimes significantly more, during their 2.5 years equivalent of Co-op experience.

Surveyed students also gave Kettering credit for its active fraternities and sororities. The University ranked seventh in the nation in The Princeton Review’s Lots of Greek Life category.

“Kettering is known for its unique 11-week terms that require students to focus on the work at hand. But that doesn't mean students must sacrifice the Greek Life experience of a traditional university,” said Myra Lumpkin, ��'s Director of Student Life Programs. “Roughly 40% of the Kettering student body participates in fraternities and sororities. These organizations allow our students to demonstrate their leadership skills while giving back to the Flint and campus communities. Through Greek Life, our students learn to collaborate toward common goals and build relationships with one another that will last a lifetime."

�� is no stranger to top rankings, appearing on numerous Best Colleges lists. These include The Princeton Review’s Best Value Colleges and Best Midwest lists and U.S. News and World Report’s Best Colleges.

“The colleges we profile in our book are truly a select group: They constitute about 15% of America’s four-year institutions. We chose them primarily based on our high opinion of their academic offerings,” said Rob Franek, Editor-in-Chief of The Princeton Review and author of The Best 390 Colleges. “The colleges that make our book’s ranking lists do so entirely as a result of the opinions of their customers — students attending the colleges — who complete our 89-question survey about their school.”

Rankings

�������� Tops List of America's Best Colleges

�������� Earns 2025–2026 Military Friendly School Silver Designation

Eight Kettering Alumnae Named Among Top 100 Women in North American Auto Industry

�������� Named Among the Nation’s Top Private Colleges for Return on Investment — Outranking Multiple Ivy League Schools

A Different Kind of Education — A Different Kind of Outcome

Kettering Graduates: Leading the Future of Industry

�������� Achieves Top 20 National Ranking for Best Graduate Salaries from The Wall Street Journal

Research.com Names �������� as One of the Top Universities in Michigan

�������� Earns Top Rankings for Multiple Master’s Programs in Intelligent.com's 2025 Best of U.S. Education

�������� Earns MVAA Honor as Veteran-Friendly School for 2024

�������� Achieves Top Rankings in U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Colleges

�������� Celebrates Multiple Prestigious National College Rankings, Including 10th in The Nation for Career Preparation From The Wall Street Journal

�� Tops List of America's Best Colleges

�� Earns 2025–2026 Military Friendly School Silver Designation

�� Named Among the Nation’s Top Private Colleges for Return on Investment — Outranking Multiple Ivy League Schools

�� Achieves Top 20 National Ranking for Best Graduate Salaries from The Wall Street Journal

Research.com Names �� as One of the Top Universities in Michigan

�� Earns Top Rankings for Multiple Master’s Programs in Intelligent.com's 2025 Best of U.S. Education

�� Earns MVAA Honor as Veteran-Friendly School for 2024

�� Achieves Top Rankings in U.S. News & World Report 2025 Best Colleges

�� Celebrates Multiple Prestigious National College Rankings, Including 10th in The Nation for Career Preparation From The Wall Street Journal