RIVERSIDE (Sept. 9, 2014) — U.S. News & World Report has included California Baptist University on its list of the nation's "Best Colleges" for the ninth straight year. CBU is ranked No. 38 in the West in the publication's "Best Regional Universities" category for 2015, up from No. 42 in the previous year's rankings and No.58 in 2013.

The ranking places CBU in the top tier of educational institutions across the nation.

"This year's ranking once again reflects the improvement in quality that California Baptist University continually strives to provide in order to enhance students' overall experience," said Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president. "Being named a ‘Best Regional University' in this influential ranking affirms California Baptist University for the value of the educational and related opportunities it offers and also serves to validate the choice that students make to attend CBU."

‘Best Colleges' rankings are featured in U.S. News & World Report each year to aid prospective students and their parents looking for the best academic values for their money. Now in its 30th year, the annual comparative listing uses a quantitative system of 16 weighted indicators of academic excellence to rank universities. Those indicators include: student selectivity, retention and graduation rates; assessment by peer institutions; faculty resources; financial resources and alumni giving.

For 2015, the category of Best Regional Universities includes 620 institutions that offer a broad scope of undergraduate degrees and master's degrees but few, if any, doctoral programs. A full list of the rankings can be viewed at www.usnews.com/colleges.