University of Houston rises significantly in Forbes' top colleges ranking

The University of Houston has ascended 22 spots to rank No. 46 among public universities on the latest Forbes list of America’s Top Colleges for 2025. The list showcases 500 institutions that offer the best educational, financial, and career outcomes for all students. Among all colleges and universities, UH rose 37 spots to land at No. 115, and Forbes ranks UH in the top 100 for research-focused universities, landing at No. 85.

“This latest ranking demonstrates the University of Houston’s commitment to student success and world-class academic programs,” said Diane Z. Chase, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost. “Inclusion in Forbes’ list of America’s Top Colleges is yet another accolade we can be very proud of. It’s another reminder of the momentum gained each day through the hard work and persistence of our campus community.”

The annual list from Forbes ranks the 500 schools that produce successful, high-earning, and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds with less student debt. The rankings are based on several key metrics, prioritizing outcomes that matter most to students and their families.

Forbes evaluates institutions on alumni salaries, student debt, graduation rates, and the success of its students and alumni using a specific methodology:

- Alumni Salary (20%): Data from Payscale and College Scorecard determine which colleges produced the highest-paid graduates.

- Student Debt (15%): Data from College Scorecard assess the average federal debt load per student along with five-year repayment rates.

- Graduation Rate (15%): Evaluates the six-year graduation rate with part of the score based on Pell Grant recipients' graduation rates.

- Forbes’ American Leaders List (15%): Tracks alumni presence on prestigious lists like Forbes 30 Under 30.

- Return on Investment (15%): Measures return by comparing net cost to earnings boost compared to high school graduates in their state.

- Retention Rate (10%): Uses a three-year average retention rate to index first-year students who return after freshman year.

- Academic Success (10%): Tallies nationally competitive awards won by undergraduates and alumni.

UH performed well in these rankings due largely to its efforts in breaking down socioeconomic disparities. Students at UH are graduating successfully regardless of their financial or family background. The six-year graduation rate has risen by 18% since 2013, now standing at 65%. Notably, graduation rates for at-risk students—those receiving Pell Grants or being first-generation college attendees—are comparable to overall rates.

UH's improvement over the past decade has also been reflected in other rankings; it climbed to No. 70 on U.S. News & World Report's list of Top Public Universities for 2024. The long-term vision is to reach the U.S. News Top 50 in this category.

The University of Houston’s continued rise underscores its dedication to fostering a vibrant academic environment that prepares its students for successful careers and societal impact.