Maryville College was recently named one of the “100 Most Affordable Small Colleges in America 2015” by Best Value Schools, an online guide for aspiring college students who are seeking the best value in their college education.
In compiling the list, Best Value Schools looked at 700 traditional four-year colleges that have 4,000 students or fewer and ranked schools based on their net price, “a figure that we interpret as more accurate than reporting tuition rates alone,” the company’s website states.
Maryville College is one of only eight institutions of higher education in Tennessee to make the list.
According to College Navigator, net prices are generated “by subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid from the total cost of attendance. Total cost of attendance is the sum of published tuition and required fees, books and supplies and the weighted average for room and board and other expenses.”
Maryville College is ranked No. 96 on the list, with an average net price of $15,605. At Maryville College, approximately 97 percent of students receive financial aid, and scholarships range from $11,000 per year up to full tuition.
“Located between Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Maryville College offers students the best of both city life and the great outdoors,” the Best Value Schools website states. “Maryville is one of the oldest colleges in the South and holds a reputation for providing a uniquely personal experience to each learner.
“With an average of 1,200 enrolled students each year, Maryville is able to keep classes small and encourage honest discussions, critical thinking and ethical teaching in the classroom,” the website continued. “MC stands out as unique among small colleges in its ability to combine this intimate atmosphere with the research opportunities and international experiences one would expect from a much larger school.”
Maryville College President Dr. Tom Bogart said that while his general approach to rankings is that each one is focused on only part of the picture, “we’re pleased to be recognized.”
“I hope students will consider Maryville College as an affordable alternative to public higher education,” the president said.