Military Times Ranks UCM in Top 15 for 2024 Best for Vets: Colleges

 

Military Times has named the University of Central Missouri (UCM) as one of the top 15 institutions in the nation for veterans on its 2024 Best for Vets: Colleges list.

Military Times provides the largest comprehensive annual ranking of higher education institutions for military service members and veterans. This year, 304 schools made the list. 

Looking at categories such as success metrics, admissions, resources, human resources, financials and recordkeeping, Military Times surveys colleges and universities nationwide to evaluate their veteran-focused programs. The survey responses, along with public data sourced from the Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs, are analyzed by the Military Times data team to produce the rankings.

The #15 spot is a significant jump from UCM’s ranking on the 2023 list. UCM was also ranked first in Missouri, second in the Central region and 12th among public institutions.

“It's exciting to see UCM gain recognition for its veteran services,” said Courtney Swoboda, director of Military and Veteran Services at UCM. “We've put in a great deal of work to get here, and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved.”

The annual rankings are a valuable tool for veterans seeking guidance on maximizing their educational benefits.

“Our comprehensive survey and thoughtful methodology ensure that our rankings remain a trusted resource,” said Jon Simkins, Executive Editor at Sightline Media Group, the parent company of Military Times.

The full rankings can be found on the Best for Vets website.

UCM is committed to helping veterans, active-duty military and their families access higher education opportunities. The university offers tuition benefits for veterans and military members plus in-state tuition for their dependents. Other benefits include free entry to athletic events and access to the Military and Veterans Success Center, a one-stop resource for active duty military, veterans and military dependents enrolled at UCM. 

For more information about UCM’s Military and Veterans Services, visit ucmo.edu/military, call 660-543-8776 or email vets@ucmo.edu.