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University of Detroit Mercy Achieves New Heights in National Rankings

In an impressive stride towards educational excellence, the University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) has climbed to the 36th position in the 2026 Wall Street Journal/College Pulse survey, which evaluates the best universities across the nation. This marks a seven-place improvement from the previous year's rankings, showcasing UDM's commitment to fostering an enriching academic environment.

Key Ranking Metrics

The Wall Street Journal/College Pulse ranking system employs a range of criteria to assess universities, including social mobility, which highlights institutions successfully enrolling a significant number of students from lower-income backgrounds while maintaining commendable graduation and salary rates. UDM received high marks in various categories:

• - 27th in social mobility among 584 assessed schools, up from 39th last year.
• - 309th in student experience, an improvement from 411th.
• - 52nd in the Best Salaries category, underscoring the financial success of its graduates.

Moreover, UDM proudly holds the title of:

• - The top-ranked private university in Michigan.
• - The second-highest ranked university in Michigan overall.
• - The second-ranked Catholic university in the Midwest and third nationwide.

Student Feedback

This ranking is based on feedback collected from over 110,000 students nationwide, reflecting their perceptions of quality education and the value provided by their respective institutions. UDM’s dedication to providing valuable educational opportunities resonates strongly with its students.

According to the Georgetown University's Center on Education and the Workforce (CEW) report, UDM ranks in the top 9% of colleges in the country when it comes to graduates' salary performance over a 15 to 40-year period.

Continuous Growth and Development

These favorable rankings and statistics have fueled a steady increase in student enrollment at UDM. To meet the evolving needs of its student body and the workforce, the university has initiated several new programs:

• - This fall, UDM welcomed its inaugural class for the new School of Optometry, introducing an accelerated seven-year Doctor of Optometry Program.
• - The establishment of the School of Health Rehabilitation Sciences within the College of Health Professions caters to the growing demand for health-related education.
• - UDM's School of Law has unveiled Michigan's first fully online Juris Doctor program, significantly enhancing access to legal education for prospective students.
• - Additionally, the School of Dentistry has commenced its Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at a newly acquired campus in Vermont.

Looking Ahead

As UDM continues to build on its successes and adapt to the educational landscape, the university aims to maintain its trajectory of growth and improvement. The strategic enhancement of its academic offerings coupled with the positive reception from students positions UDM as a pivotal player in higher education, further solidifying its reputation as a top choice for prospective students. As UDM moves forward, the commitment to excellence promises not only to benefit its students but also the broader community.

For more information on UDM and its programs, visit www.udmercy.edu.