College of the Ozarks was recognized by Money magazine as one of America's Best Colleges, highlighting the College's commitment to academic excellence, affordability, and its distinctive Work Education Program.

College of the Ozarks named one of America's Best Colleges by Money Magazine

POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks has been named one of Money magazine's Best Colleges for 2026, earning recognition for its commitment to academic excellence, affordability and student success. The College earned a 4.5-star rating in Money's evaluation, reflecting strong performance across measured outcomes.

Each year, Money evaluates four-year colleges and universities across the nation using 25 measures in three categories: quality of education, affordability, and outcomes. The rankings consider factors such as graduation rates, cost of attendance, financial aid, student debt, and alumni earnings. Institutions also must meet rigorous eligibility standards, including demonstrating financial stability and strong graduation rates.

Known as "Hard Work U.," College of the Ozarks was recognized for the value it provides students through its distinctive educational model. Every full-time student participates in the College's Work Education Program, working 15 hours each week during the academic year and two 40-hour work weeks annually. As a result, the College ranked among the most affordable institutions in Money's analysis, while graduates' median earnings 10 years after enrollment exceeded the national median.

"Money's recognition affirms the value of a College of the Ozarks education and the impact of our distinctive approach to preparing students for life beyond the classroom," said Dr. Brad Johnson, president of College of the Ozarks. "Our students are challenged to work hard, take responsibility for their education, and develop the skills and character needed to lead and serve others. We are grateful to our talented and dedicated employees and our faithful and generous supporters, who, together, make this unique, one-of-kind, educational opportunity possible for our students."

The mission of College of the Ozarks is to provide the advantages of a Christian education for youth of both sexes, especially those found worthy, but who are without sufficient means to procure such training.

Through the College's Work Education Program, students work in place of paying tuition while gaining valuable professional experience. Educational costs are supported through donor contributions, private scholarships and grants, allowing students to graduate with practical workplace skills and little or no debt. Nearly 1,500 students work in more than 100 campus workstations each year, preparing them for successful careers while reinforcing the College's commitment to affordability and financial responsibility.

The methodology for Money's 2026 Best Colleges rankings began with all four-year public and private nonprofit colleges in the country, a group totaling more than 2,400 institutions. To make the initial cut, a college had to have at least 500 undergraduate students or 150 freshmen, have sufficient and reliable data available for analysis, not be in financial distress, and meet established standards for graduation rates or "value-added" graduation performance. More than 700 schools met the requirements for this initial cut. Colleges were evaluated on 25 factors in three categories: quality of education (30% of weighting), affordability (40% of weighting) and outcomes (30% of weighting).

To view Money 2026 rankings, visit https://money.com/best-colleges/  

To view the full methodology, visit https://money.com/best-colleges/methodology/