KEARNEY, Neb. -- The University of Nebraska at Kearney remains a top option for students according to “Best Colleges” rankings from U.S. News & World Report. 

This is the ninth time UNK has been inside the top 10. UNK ranked eighth among the best public regional universities in the Midwest. No other school in Nebraska or the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Associations received a higher ranking.

UNK also managed to climb up eight spots from last year, ranking 29th among all Midwest regional universities, both public and private.

“We are incredibly proud to, once again, be recognized as a leading institution in the Midwest," said Kelly Bartling, UNK’s vice chancellor for enrollment management and marketing. "Our consistent top rankings underscore the value and opportunities UNK offers, as we continually adapt to meet the needs and aspirations of our students.”

UNK also managed to maintain its ranking among “Best Value Schools,” coming in second among Midwest regional universities. 

UNK moved up 20 spots on the rankings for social mobility, tying for 31st among Midwest regional universities, and it also improved one position on the “Best Colleges for Veterans” list, ranking 14th.

U.S. News & World Report ranking evaluates 1,500 colleges and universities.