University of Minnesota Rochester Honored as a 2024-2025 College of Distinction

 The University of Minnesota Rochester (UMR) is proud to announce its recognition as a 2024-25 College of Distinction, a prestigious honor that highlights its unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional undergraduate education. The award reflects UMR’s dedication to fostering hands-on learning, strong student-faculty relationships, an active campus community and stellar student outcomes. This is the fifth year in a row, UMR has been recognized. 

Since its founding in 2000, Colleges of Distinction has awarded schools for their successful implementation of high-impact educational practices and hands-on learning. Unlike traditional ranking systems based on numerical data, its rigorous selection process involves extensive research and detailed interviews with the institutions, accepting only those that adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes. UMR has demonstrated exceptional performance in each of these areas, ensuring a supportive and enriching environment that equips students for future academic and career success.

“A college degree opens the door to many opportunities,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “But a truly worthwhile education prepares students to thrive once they walk through that door. UMR‘s curriculum encourages meaningful student-faculty collaboration through experiential learning that is relevant and applicable to the real world.” 

Schritter continued, "We are so impressed to see how UMR brings life to the traditional undergraduate experience. With a welcoming community, an immersive curriculum, and strong support networks, UMR is undoubtedly nurturing the growth of tomorrow’s leaders.

Aside from overall undergraduate recognitions, Colleges of Distinction also awards recognition in individual areas. UMR has earned additional recognition in the areas of Career Development and Equity & Inclusion.