Money magazine gives CSUMB high rating

By Mark Muckenfuss

For the third year running, Money magazine has given Cal State Monterey Bay 4.5 out of five stars in its annual Best Colleges in America ratings, 

CSUMB President Vanya Quiñones said the rating shows the strengths of the university and its community.

“We are proud to receive 4.5 stars from Money magazine in its survey,” Quiñones said. “This recognition reflects our commitment to providing affordable, accessible education and promoting both social and upward mobility for students from all backgrounds. At Cal State Monterey Bay, students find their place, realize their potential and prepare to make a lasting impact in their communities.”

Last year, in its annual rankings, U.S. News and World Report named CSUMB No. 1 for social mobility among western regional universities. 

In Money’s newly released ratings, the publication said California State University is the best higher education system in the country.

“Fifteen of the system’s 23 campuses score in the top 10% of our ratings this year,” the magazine said in its Best Colleges report. It went on to say that CSUs “have gotten attention in recent years for being engines of social mobility: They excel at enrolling and graduating low-income and minority students.”

Last year, in its annual rankings, U.S. News and World Report named CSUMB No. 1 for social mobility among western regional universities. 

In a statement, CSU Chancellor Mildred García said the system’s universities set a high bar for higher education.

“The tremendous scale at which we are graduating and serving students across the CSU is truly impactful, and indeed unmatched among four-year higher education systems," García said. “Our students are juggling work, family responsibilities and their studies—demonstrating extraordinary determination and resolve. We are committed not only to expanding access to quality higher education but also to ensuring career outcomes that empower and enrich our graduates long after they leave campus. 

“This ranking further establishes the CSU's standing as a national model for delivering an accessible, high-quality education that uplifts individuals, families and entire communities," she added.

In addition to recognizing CSUMB’s prime seaside location, Money said the campus “boasts interesting architecture” and “scores high marks for being both accessible and affordable,” noting the high rate – 80% for first-year students – of financial aid.

The recognition follows another recent accolade from the magazine. In June, CSUMB was one of only 12 schools to receive a five-star rating in Money’s list of Best Education Master’s Programs for Your Money.