By Mark Muckenfuss

Money magazine has given CSU Monterey a 4.5-star rating (out of 5) in its most recent survey of Best Colleges in America. 

CSUMB was noted “for being both affordable and accessible” in the report. “The acceptance rate is more than 90%, and more than half of the students are first-generation college students. The estimated net price of a degree before federal and state aid is around $93,000, according to Money’s calculations, which is on the lower end of all the schools we analyzed.”

The university also ranked high in metrics related to return on investment.

Another recent study by the Diverse: Issues in Higher Education placed CSUMB in the top 50 institutions in the nation on its list of Top 100 Degree Producers Hispanic-Serving Institutions, for both Hispanic and all minority students.

CSUMB President Vanya Quiñones said the rankings reflect the university’s ongoing mission. 

“At CSUMB, we offer world-class opportunities and education to our students, so it is fitting that we have received one of the top ratings from Money magazine,” Quiñones said. "In addition, CSUMB has been recognized as one of the top 50 institutions to graduate the most Hispanic and minority students in the nation.”

Overall, California public universities did well in both rankings. 

In the Money study, CSUMB had the fifth lowest cost among the 23 CSUs when it came to calculating the annual cost of attendance.

Quiñones said CSUMB graduates are leading the way for others. 

“We know that when one member dreams of a better future via education, it opens doors for the whole family and for future generations,” she said. “I am proud that our university is receiving these well-earned accolades that reflect positively on our alumni, students, faculty and our community."