US News ranks ASC first among Northern Regional Colleges for undergraduate teaching and least student debt
From Alfred State College,
Alfred State College (ASC) has earned top honors in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Regional Colleges rankings, recognized as #1 in the North for Undergraduate Teaching excellence and as the #1 SUNY for Least Student Debt. These honors come at a moment of seismic change in higher education when families are scrutinizing return on investment and redefining what excellent teaching means.
Historically, liberal arts institutions dominated the undergraduate teaching category, including as recently as last year. But this year’s results point to a shift with professional experience and career readiness now recognized as essential to undergraduate success.
U.S. News evaluates nearly 1,700 colleges and universities nationwide, grouping them by mission and resources to allow for fair comparisons. Alfred State is part of the Northern Regional Colleges category, with 67 ranked colleges and another 48 unranked schools across 11 states. ASC earned:
- #1 in the North for Undergraduate Teaching
- #1 SUNY for Least Student Debt
- #2 SUNY Best Value School
- #3 in the North with Out-of-State Tuition Under $15,000
- #4 in the North for Least Student Debt
- #4 in the North for Economic Diversity
Vice President for Academic Affairs Carrie Cokely said the recognition affirms what Alfred State students and families already know: “Our professors bring real-world expertise into the classroom. They know the industries, they know the careers, and they teach what matters most for students’ futures. Students and families want proof that a college degree leads somewhere meaningful, and our faculty delivers every day. This honor reflects their commitment and validates our brand promise that Pioneers are PROS! as professionals guiding students toward bright futures.”
President Dr. Steven Mauro emphasized how the results address broader doubts about higher education’s value: “Families across the country are asking tougher questions about higher education. They want outcomes they can trust. At Alfred State, 99% of our graduates start a career or continue their education within six months. Pair that with the lowest student debt recognition for SUNY regional colleges by the US News and World Report, and it’s clear why we’re being recognized. This is exactly what families seek: quality teaching, affordability, and confidence in the future.”
The undergraduate teaching honor is especially significant because it is based solely on peer assessment, with presidents, provosts, and enrollment leaders asked to nominate their fellow institutions where faculty are most committed to undergraduates.
Alfred State’s reputation for value and career preparation extends beyond U.S. News. Other honors include:
- #1 Return on Investment in Western NY — Georgetown University Study
- #1 in New York State for Affordability — AffordableCollegesOnline.com
- #1 Least Expensive in NYS for Online Business Degrees — BachelorsDegreeCenter.org
- Named to The Best Northeastern Colleges — Princeton Review
- Unique dual honors from Carnegie Classifications: designated both as an Opportunity College and University (higher access & higher earnings) and as a leader in Applied and Career Studies
Together, these recognitions highlight Alfred State’s distinctive role in higher education: combining faculty excellence, affordability, and proven career outcomes.
An Alfred State degree gets results!
At Alfred State College, hands-on experience leads to career success. An emphasis on applied learning enables students to reach goals and develop the skills needed to thrive at in-demand jobs. With over 80 majors, over 100 clubs and civic groups, and 18 NCAA Division III sports, Alfred State prepares students to become leaders, achievers, and Pioneers who are ready to Hit the Ground Running …
