Neumann University has been recognized for excellence in higher education by the Colleges of Distinction 2020-21 guide for college-bound students.

In addition, the university was listed as a Pennsylvania College of Distinction, a Catholic College of Distinction, and was cited for excellence in Business, Education, Nursing, and Career Preparation.

Founded in 2000, Colleges of Distinction lists only those institutions that meet four criteria: engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community, and successful outcomes.

It cites Neumann University for its collaborative learning, strong liberal arts curriculum, professional career preparation, required internships, and many opportunities for community service. The guide also notes Neumann’s year-round study abroad programs and several 4+1 academic majors, which allow students to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years.

Colleges of Distinction highlights Neumann’s offering of several academic majors, graduates of which are in demand in the marketplace: cybersecurity, data science and analytics, nursing, and health sciences.

“The guide also recognizes the positive impact on campus life of 24 NCAA Division III teams and a host of student activities such as campus ministry, a radio station and student government,” said Francesca Reed, Neumann’s vice president for enrollment management and marketing.

The college guide lists Neumann’s geographical proximity to Philadelphia, New York and Washington, DC, as an opportunity for entertainment and professional internships.

According to the guide’s website, the selection process involves conducting in-depth research and detailed interviews with the schools about each institution’s freshman experience, retention efforts, general education programs, career development programs, strategic plan, student satisfaction, and other criteria.

The guide provides a profile of and basic information about colleges: size, cost, location, academic offerings, the number of undergraduate students, the male to female ratio, full-time to part-time ratio, campus activities, and college highlights.

Graduates, school faculty and administrators, and current students nominate schools for consideration, and each school is evaluated on key indicators.