Alfred State College (ASC) has been recognized among the top Regional Colleges in the North by U.S. News & World Report, ranking No. 3 for Best Undergraduate Teaching and No. 17 for Best Value Schools in the publication's 2027 Best Colleges rankings.
Alfred State ranks No. 7 for Best Value for In-State Students, reinforcing the college's strong combination of academic quality, affordability, and student outcomes.
The rankings highlight Alfred State's commitment to delivering an exceptional educational experience while helping students maximize the return on their investment.
"These rankings reflect our commitment to providing students with an exceptional education that combines academic quality, affordability, and career success," said Alfred State President Dr. Steven Mauro. "Our faculty create engaging learning experiences that prepare students to excel in the workforce, and our 99% career placement and continuing education rate demonstrates the value students receive from an Alfred State education."
Alfred State is included in the Regional Colleges North category, which consists of 71 ranked colleges across 11 states. The college earned recognition in several categories:
- #2 SUNY Regional College for Best Value and #17 overall in the North Region
- #3 Regional College in the North for Best Undergraduate Teaching
- #4 SUNY Regional College for Least Student Debt
- #4 SUNY Regional College for Veterans and #9 overall in the North Region
- #5 SUNY Regional College, #16 Regional Public College, and #27 Regional College
- #7 Best Regional College for Best Value for In-State Students
The Best Undergraduate Teaching ranking highlights institutions recognized for their commitment to undergraduate instruction, an area that reflects Alfred State's emphasis on applied learning and personalized education.
"Our faculty are at the heart of the Alfred State experience," said Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Carrie Cokely. "They bring industry expertise, personal attention, and a passion for teaching into every classroom and laboratory. Through applied learning opportunities and real-world experiences, our students develop the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and the exceptional learning environment they create."
The annual U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings evaluate colleges and universities nationwide, grouping institutions by mission and resources. Rankings incorporate measures of academic quality, student outcomes, and institutional resources.
The recognition comes as Alfred State celebrates its highest enrollment since 1985, with more than 3,800 students enrolled for the fall 2026 semester. The college has welcomed more than 1,500 incoming students over the past two years, reflecting growing demand for its distinctive blend of academic quality, affordability, and career outcomes.
"It is an exciting time to be a Pioneer," Mauro added. "With our highest enrollment since 1985 and continued recognition for the quality and value of our education, Alfred State has tremendous momentum. We are proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to creating even more opportunities for our students to learn, grow, and launch successful careers."